It appears like a van with windows, drives just like a van with windows, and performs just like a van with windows. That leads to the inevitable conclusion how the V-Class is a van with windows.

Place it alongside a Vito – favoured by upwardly-mobile courier companies – and also the parentage becomes obvious. Regardless, it’s a fine machine because of its intended slot on the market.

The dynamics leave much to become desired but standard Mercedes values (low interior noise levels, safe acceleration, predictable handling) each one is to be found within the V-Class. Heavily favoured by fecund families and chauffeur companies, the V-Class isn’t the Mercedes-Benz to buy should you be looking for excitement, but it’s the one if comfort and security for seven are at the top of your agenda.