The Mercedes-Benz V-Class is a mid-size luxury van — larger than a minivan, smaller than a Sprinter — that is one of the most common chauffeur vehicles at airports and hotels in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. It seats six to eight passengers, often in individual seats that can face each other, and it drives much like a car. In the U.S., a related model was sold as the Metris from 2016 to 2023, but the luxury V-Class itself was not offered, which is why American chauffeured fleets rely on full-size SUVs and the Sprinter instead.

At a glance
First V-Class 1996 (W638)
Current generation Since 2014 (W447), updated 2023
Seats Six to eight
U.S. relative Mercedes-Benz Metris (2016–2023)
Electric version EQV

Why chauffeurs love it abroad

In European cities, full-size American SUVs are too large for narrow streets and expensive to fuel. The V-Class fits in normal parking spaces, has sliding doors on both sides for easy access, and can be configured like a small lounge with facing seats and a table. Hotels and chauffeur companies use it for airport transfers, roadshows and families.

Versions

  • Long and extra-long versions for more luggage space.
  • Luxury seating with individual captain’s chairs, some with recline.
  • Marco Polo camper versions for leisure.
  • EQV, an electric version.

Why not in the U.S.?

The V-Class was never sold in North America. The Metris, a commercial and passenger version of the same van, was sold in the U.S. from 2016 to 2023 and used by some shuttle and delivery operators, but it did not have the V-Class’s luxury interior. American buyers seeking a premium van usually chose Sprinter conversions or large SUVs.

The chauffeured alternative in New York

For groups of four to seven in New York and New Jersey, a full-size SUV like the GMC Yukon XL or Chevrolet Suburban fills the V-Class’s role, with more luggage space and all-weather capability. For bigger groups, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers standing room. See choosing the right vehicle for your group.

What’s next

Mercedes has announced a new generation of large luxury vans built on a dedicated electric-focused platform, signaling that the chauffeur van is becoming a luxury product in its own right. Lexus’s LM follows a similar philosophy — see the Lexus LM.