Before we get there, if you loved my take on the new C-Class, you’ll love this review.

Let’s start with the exterior. The C43’s aerodynamic lines and sleek curves give it a dynamic and sporty appearance. The front grille is distinctive, and the aggressive air intakes provide not only a sporty look but also function to cool the engine. The rear of the car is equally impressive with a sporty bumper and twin tailpipes, completing the look of this striking machine.

Under the hood, the C43 is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder in-line engine that delivers 300 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and quickly. The C43 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, which is impressive for a car in its class. This is a second faster than the outgoing model by the way.

The top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h. By adding the optional AMG Driver’s Package, it can be raised to 265 km/h.

But the C43 is not just about raw power. It’s also packed with cutting-edge technology, including a 10.25-inch infotainment system with voice recognition, a Burmester surround sound system, and a digital driver display. The car also features advanced driver-assist technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

On the open road, the C43 handles beautifully. The suspension is perfectly tuned, providing a comfortable ride while still feeling sporty and responsive. The steering is precise, and the car feels well balanced in corners. The car’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip, making it easy to control even on wet or slippery surfaces. There is one drawback though, the car seems to be track ready and track focussed at heart. When in comfort, it struggles to find and keep the appropriate gear, especially when driving in suburbia. But once you change it to Sport and Sport+, the C 43 is at its happiest. I’m not entirely sure whether that’s a drawback or not, but still, its just weird.

On the track, the C43 is a joy to drive. The car’s sporty nature really shines through, and the engine delivers ample power, while the chassis provides excellent handling. The brakes are strong and responsive, and the car feels well planted even at high speeds.

However, there are some negative aspects of the C43. The infotainment system can be a bit fiddly to use, and some of the interior materials feel a bit cheap. Additionally, the car is quite expensive, with a starting price of around R1,608,810  in South Africa. Comparing it with the likes of the BMW M340i, I’m super keen to see how many of these babies Mercedes manage to move.

In conclusion, the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 is a fantastic car. It’s a powerful and dynamic machine that’s packed with advanced technology, and it offers an exhilarating driving experience both on the road and on the track. While there are some downsides to the car, overall, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a high-performance luxury vehicle.

I can confidently say that this car is a true masterpiece. Here are ten things that make me fall in love with it every time I get behind the wheel:

Powerful Engine: The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 comes with a powerful 4.0-liter V8 engine that delivers 450 kW of power and 850 Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds.

The Comfort: The GLS 63’s cabin is a comfortable and luxurious space, with seats that are both heated and ventilated. The car also has a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light and makes the interior feel even more spacious.

The Sound: The GLS 63’s engine produces a deep, throaty roar that is music to any car lover’s ears. The car also comes with an optional AMG Performance exhaust system that enhances the engine’s sound even further.

The Handling: Despite its size, the GLS 63 handles like a much smaller car. The car’s suspension system is tuned for sporty driving, and the all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in all driving conditions.

The Technology: The GLS 63 is packed with advanced technology, including a large MBUX infotainment screen, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The car also comes with a suite of advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.

The Style: The GLS 63 has a sleek, modern design that turns heads wherever it goes. The car’s aggressive front grille, AMG-specific bodywork, and 21-inch wheels give it a sporty and imposing look.

The Space: The GLS 63 is a large SUV, and as such, it has plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. The car’s third-row seats can comfortably accommodate adults, and with all the seats folded down, the car has impressive cargo space.

The Luxury: The GLS 63 is a luxury vehicle through and through, with high-end materials and finishes throughout the cabin. The car’s interior is lined with soft leather, and the dashboard and doors are accented with real wood trim.

The Versatility: The GLS 63 is a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of driving situations with ease. Whether you’re cruising down the highway, navigating city streets, or tackling off-road trails, the GLS 63 can do it all.

The Exclusivity: The GLS 63 is a rare and exclusive vehicle, with only a limited number available each year. If you were to ever own one of these, you’ll feel privileged to own such a unique and special car, and I love the sense of exclusivity that comes with it.

Overall, the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is a luxurious and powerful SUV that offers a comfortable ride, cutting-edge technology, and advanced safety features. Its combination of luxury, performance, and versatility make it an excellent choice for those who want the best of both worlds.

This means that taxi owners will be able to immediately operate and earn income from the purchased vehicle instead of waiting for a conversion.

For those not familiar with the model, the Inkanyezi is a 23 seater people mover popular within the local taxi industry.

The Inkanyezi’s makes use of high quality vinyl seats that are not only durable and easy to clean, but are comfortable for drivers and passengers. The front cabin features a functional workspace for the driver and offers a relaxed environment for the front passenger too. Then there’s the optional multifunction steering wheel for the driver and various vehicle functions such as the state-of-the-art MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen that enhance the driver’s and passengers’ journey and includes route guidance.

As far as technicalities go, the rear-wheel drive Inkanyezi 516 CDI is powered by a 2 litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine that delivers 120kW with peak torque of 330Nm.

According to Marinus Venter, Head of Product and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Vans SA, “Use of the Inkanyezi in the taxi industry results in a high utilisation rate. The vehicle’s efficiency offers a key success factor in this tough and competitive sector”.

Pricing for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Inkanyezi 516 CDI starts at a recommended R945.000,00 including VAT.

Have a listen below and check out the images after the break

The line-up includes the legendary G-Class, GLB, GLE 400d, GLS, GLA and GLC models all of which we’re super excited to get driving in 2021. After the jump we unpack the updates Mercedes has afforded to each model and soon we’ll share our hands-on experience with them. Stay tuned.

Mercedes-Benz G400d – 4M J40 Edition

To mark its 40th anniversary in 2019, Mercedes-Benz had unveiled a range of highlights for the G-Class , starting with the special Stronger Than Time model – including the exclusive G 400 d, J40 Edition.

On paper, the G 400 d offers a combined fuel consumption of about 8.9-8.7 l/100 km, an output of 243 kW and an impressive maximum torque of 700 Nm.

The real treat from the G 400d is that it comes in AMG Line guise, with flared wheel arches over black 20- inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, AMG design elements in the bumpers and an exterior protective strip, brake callipers with Mercedes-Benz lettering and, The standard-fit Night Package gives the special model darkened lights as well as outside mirrors, a spare wheel ring and design elements in the bumpers in obsidian black and tinted rear windows.

For those obsessed with finer details, they’ll see it showcased at night: the surround lamp projects the G logo and the lettering ‘STRONGER THAN TIME’ onto the road. This special edition will set you back R2 874 000.

Mercedes-Benz GLB

Finally available on local soil, the new GLB is the first Mercedes-Benz in the compact segment that is optionally available as a seven-seater, and is powered by completely updated four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines that offer a combination of fuel economy and performance.

Buyers are able to choose from the GLB 250 and the GLB 220 d 4MATIC. On paper, the GLB 250 offers a combined fuel consumption 7.4-7.1 l/100 km while the two-litre diesel engine in the GLB 220d 4MATIC offers a combined fuel consumption of 5.4-5.1 l/100 km.

For those obsessed with tech, driving assistance systems are drawn from the S-Class, with improved camera and radar systems that allow the GLB to see up to 500 metres ahead and drive in semi-automated mode in certain situations. Pricing starts from R831 000.

Mercedes-Benz GLE 400d Coupe

Only the the GLE 400 d 4MATIC Sports Coupe is available under the GLE range in Mzansi at the moment, which offers a powerful 3.0 litre six-cylinder diesel engine that delivers 243 kW and 700 Nm of torque. On paper this results in a brisk 0-100 time of 5.7 seconds at a combined fuel consumption of 7.4-6.9 l/100 km.

According to Mercedes, the new GLE Coupé combines the modern luxury, elegance and sportiness of a coupé with the robustness and technology of the latest large premium SUV models.

Where are the changes? The new GLE Coupé is 4939 mm long and 2010 mm wide, making it 9mm longer and 7mm wider than the outgoing model.

The interior of the new GLE Coupé shares numerous features with the other models in the new premium-SUV family and clearly emphasises the sporty aspect. A familiar sight is the modern cockpit with two large 31.2 cm screens. The strikingly styled instrument panel, horizontally divided by a trim tier, transitions seamlessly into the door panels. Pricing starts from R1 814 000.

Mercedes-Benz GLS

The new Mercedes-Benz GLS is even larger than its predecessor, with a 60 mm longer wheelbase that provides increased interior spaciousness, and combines striking looks with outstanding comfort, agile handling and a high degree of off-road capability.

Local buyers will be able to choose from the new Mercedes-Benz GLS 400d 4M and Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 4M, which marks the world première of a new electrified V8 petrol engine with 48-volt on-board electrical system and integrated starter-generator.

The GLS 580 4MATIC’s new electrified V8 petrol engine has a displacement of four litres and produces an output of 360 kW and 700 Nm of torque, with another 250 Nm of torque and 16 kW of additional output temporarily on tap via EQ Boost. Combined fuel consumption is around 10.1-9.8 l/100 km.

The GLS 400 d 4MATIC produces 243 kW and 700 Nm of torque, with combined fuel consumption of 7.9-7.6 l/100 km. Starting retail price is at R1 842 000.

If you had the opportunity, which model would like a drive in? Let us know in the comments below!

Today, we have what we you see above, the 2021 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. Its no secret that the Maybach brand is deeply rooted in automotive history – and, as a Mercedes sub-brand, it inherited the ambition of its founder: his spirit of ingenuity and restless demand for the exceptional. In fact, the brand has a higher pedigree than most other car brands out there. Without wasting more time, let’s unpack the 2021 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.

For Mercedes, focus on the 2021 The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is put on the rear with the brand claiming that its particularly suitable for chauffeured driving. The 18 cm longer wheelbase compared to the long variant of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class entirely benefits the rear. This is underlined by even more refined appointments.

The massage function of the calf rests on the Executive seats is a new feature. The First-Class Rear has been extensively upgraded. The neck/shoulder heating in the rear is another comfort feature sure to lure the rich in.

In addition and on request, the exclusive appearance of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class can be enhanced by a two-tone paint finish with dividing line, like we’ve seen on many Rolls Royce models. This is applied by hand according to the highest quality criteria. Distinguishing features at the front include the distinctive bonnet with a chromed fin and the Mercedes-Maybach radiator grille with fine, vertical chrome pinstripes. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class also differs from its brother models when viewed from the side: the rear doors are wider, and the C-pillars feature a fixed quarterlight. A Maybach brand logo on the C-pillar underlines the exclusivity.

As another optional extra, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class can be equipped with electrically operated comfort rear doors. With this feature, the wide rear doors can be conveniently opened and closed with little force even on a gradient. Integration into the infotainment and control system MBUX and Blind Spot Assist ensures a high level of operating convenience and additional safety. The rear doors can also be operated from the driver’s seat – an important function when chauffeur-driven.

There’s also revolutionary headlamp technology (optional equipment) which allows completely new functions, such as the projection of marking aids or warning symbols onto the road ahead. In each headlamp, DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs with light that is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle.

Step inside the vehicle and you’ll notice that the interior of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is based on the completely new interior design of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

The large areas of trim on the front seats are a new feature in the Mercedes-Maybach. High-quality wood surrounds encase the rear of the front seat backrests, giving the impression of generous lounge seats. If the First-Class Rear is specified, a similarly striking area of trim is positioned between the two rear passengers.

With Active road noise compensation, the interior of the already very quiet Mercedes-Maybach S-Class becomes even quieter. In a similar way to headphones with noise suppression, the system reduces unwanted low-frequency noises using counter-phased sound waves. The bass speakers of the Burmester® high-end 4D surround sound system are used for sound reproduction.

Adaptive rear lighting is celebrating its premiere in the Mercedes-Maybach. This follows the wishes of the occupants in several respects: as well as the brightness, the size and position of the light spot can be adjusted. There is also a wide adjustment range between precise working light and relaxing lounge light.

The second generation of MBUX finally makes its debut in the new S-Class. It brilliantly displays on up to five large screens, in part with OLED technology, make the control of vehicle and comfort functions even easier. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class can also be equipped with MBUX Interior Assist in the rear.

If the S-Class is a relatively niche car, then the Maybach version is a lavish niche within a niche. Few will get to experience life in its rear seats, but it’s not far-fetched to think of it as a private jet experience, only a little closer to the ground. The 2021 Mercedes Maybach S-Class is due to arrive on dealership floors in mid-2021; pricing will be confirmed closer to launch as well.

I have even questioned this new sedan’s existence given that Mercedes also has the CLA now – for a while it did not make sense. But once you see the baby four-door in the metal, you will be reassured as to where it makes its argument well and sticks by it. The A200 is very compact and somewhat less punchy to what you’d expect, but it’s all in reason. A few colleagues have shared their voice about it being underpowered, but I reckon that it is perfectly proportioned with it.

Meanwhile, the grille of the car, lower fascia, and those squinting headlamps give it the perfect amount of sneer at the front, while the back (reminiscent of the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe – but we know which came first) is somewhat pleasing.

Fortunately the folks at Mercedes-Benz had added the optional R52 100 AMG Line “bodystyling” package to our test ride, which adds slight differences in the bodywork, suspension that’s lowered and the chrome-finish diamond-block grille that we’re loving of late. Then there are the 18-inch AMG 5-spoke light alloy wheels that look the part. All of these make the the A Class a little more youthful, bridging the gap between a C-Class and a CLA that you’re so worried about.

If anything, the A200 is a lesson in how there is more to performance than the numbers you read on paper. In theory, the 120kW of power and 250Nm of torque of its 1.3-liter engine might seem underwhelming, even the 8.1 second 0-100km/h time is nothing to write home about. Once you are behind the wheel, though, it never pans out that way.

While the A-Class may look like its bigger sedan siblings at first glance, it’s a way more manageable car in tight corners – thanks to its nimbleness. Add on steering with just the right amount of weight, and you end up with a car that can be more entertaining to drive than its siblings twice the size. Even at slower paces, though, you quickly come to value the inside of the car.
Segment aside, the interior of the A-Class is one of the nicest places you can spend your time in one of the latest cars, no questions asked.

First impressions and the entire feel of the cabin is at odds with the specs: there is more rear headroom than in a CLA, but you start to encounter problems when you are looking at the overall legroom. Fortunately, the design of the dashboard and the large panoramic glass roofing leave it feeling roomier.

The A200 feels as good as it looks. Mercedes-Bez has taken a huge step up when it comes to their material game. Where the technology is concerned, twin 7-inch screens – one for the driver and one for the infotainment and air – are standard, but twin 10.25-inch upgrades are available at cost. That is a worthy addition, as it also includes blind spot warnings and keyless start.

There’s also an ambient lighting system and, while that may seem excessive, the way it so thoroughly lifts the interior makes it a must-have too. It brings great joy to kids during night drives.

Further toppling the usual rules about which cars debut which new features, you would remember that the A-Class is also first to bring Mercedes’ new MBUX infotainment system to market. While it cleans up the UI and generally leaves the menus less confusing than the old version, the biggest change is the “Hey Mercedes” smart assistant.

Then there’s also the optional augmented reality navigation system which floats turn-by-turn directions over a real-time view of the road ahead and proved surprisingly helpful when trying to figure my way through unknown routes. Sadly it can’t actually project those AR directions onto the windshield.

In case I was not clear, the 2020 A200 impressed me far more than I expected to be. My skepticism had been that it would be a less calculated car, effectively a way to lure new owners to the brand but then quickly propel them up the ladder to more expensive models because they’d find it to lag and be a bit sluggish.

Rather, I find myself asking whether it could actually steal a few entry-level C-Class and CLA sales. If you want to buy into the Mercedes lifestyle, and the styling, and the luxury tech interior, but don’t actually need all the rear space of the larger sedan, there’s a lot to recommend this smaller, nimble car.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz A200 sedan is priced from R674 940

Take a look inside the bonnet and you’ll notice that the V8 is fitted to dynamic engine mounts, which can have their stiffness adjusted according to whether you’ve selected comfort or sporty driving as the focus.

For the good stuff, the folks at AMG has paired the engine with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission, capable of multiple downshifts and double-clutching. There’s a dedicated “M” manual-shift mode as well as temporary paddle override and a “Gliding” function for more relaxed driving. AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive also comes as standard.

For Mercedes, first impressions count. So that means a larger central star on the AMG-specific grille, with vertical slats and flanked by all-LED multi beam headlamps. The front bumper is reworked, with a trio of large, functional air intakes; the wheel arches are flared, and there are twin power domes on the bonnet. In total, it’s 1.1-inches wider than the regular E300.

Meanwhile the rear gets new, flatter tail-lamps, which now extend into the boot lid. There’s a reshaped bumper, too, with the lower par in high-gloss black. 3.5-inch trapezoidal twin tailpipes get a titanium matte finish – and inside/outside fluting – and there’s a high-gloss black diffuser.

Joining the paint options are Graphite Grey metallic, Cirrus Silver metallic, and designo Brilliant Blue magno. For wheels, 20-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloys are standard, in high-gloss grey or matte black. High-gloss black is an option, as is the AMG Night Package.

Take a seat inside and you’ll see that AMG sports seats get special nappa leather and custom badging, while more leather features on the dashboard and elsewhere. Yellow contrasting top stitching is available. The wheel is a new AMG Performance model, with twin-spokes and wrapped in leather, microfiber, or a mixture of two; it’s heated as standard, uses new capacitive buttons, and a capacitive system for tracking your hands in adaptive cruise mode. Exactly what we saw earlier this month.

Twin 12.3-inch displays are standard – the centre one being a touchscreen – and there’s the latest MBUX infotainment system with “Hey Mercedes” voice activation. Custom AMG graphics are standard.

All in all, it’s a potent pair set up to take on BMW’s new 2021 M5. Strong competition, but that can only be a good thing for performance drivers. Pricing for the 2021 Mercedes-AMG E 63 S Sedan will be confirmed closer to their Mzansi launch date, which will be Q1 of 2021.

Things kicked off last year where the candidates were presented to the public. Next, test drives took place before the esteemed judges. That’s when the real fun began, as each juror got the chance to drive all the nominated vehicles. One can say that the annual awards are a big deal for automakers, as a strong showing can add up to a whole lot of attention when potential owners are considering their next purchase.

The festivities came to a screeching halt by March as the coronavirus pandemic spread like wildfire. This led to the imminent cancellation of several scheduled launch events in the auto industry. With COVID-19 showing no signs of stopping, the live awards event – where the winners were supposed to be announced – was scrubbed.

Much like meetings, school classes, and more, things shifted online instead. Without further ado, we now know the winners of the 2020 South African Car of the Year Awards, including the Top Three in the finalists for each category.

2020 South African Car of the Year: Jaguar i-Pace

Since its reveal in 2018, the Jaguar I-PACE has collected nearly 100 global awards including 2019 World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year, World Green Car, European Car of the Year, and German, Norwegian and UK Car of the Year.

All of these titles recognise the technical excellence of the I-PACE’s zero emissions powertrain, which was designed and developed from a clean sheet of paper, in-house. Aside from being the best premium electric vehicle in the world, it’s a true Jaguar driver’s car with a combination of sports car performance, exceptional refinement, advanced driver technologies and all-wheel drive SUV usability and practicality.

A 90kWh lithium-ion battery enables a range of up to 470km (WLTP) and is capable of charging from 0-80% in just over an hour (60kW DC). The two light, compact and efficient Jaguar-designed motors generate a combined output of 294kW and 696Nm of instant torque, delivering 0-100km/h in an exhilarating 4.8 seconds.

Urban Category

The winner in the Urban Category was the Hyundai Atos 1.1 Motion. This category covers compact budget-friendly passenger vehicles that are ideal for in-town driving. Buyers of these cars typically rate practicality over luxury and performance.

Family Category

The next category – Family – is especially popular. It consists of mid-size sedans. Buyers of these vehicles expect quality, practicality and comfort –with an element of advanced handling dynamics thrown into the equation. The winner in this category was the Toyota Corolla Hatch 1.2T XR CVT.

Leisure Category

The third category – Leisure – was won by the Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0 TSI Comfortline 85kW DSG. This category covers sports utility vehicles (SUVs) and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs). Owners of these SUVs and MPVs enjoy the freedom of driving both on and off-road. This – combined a high seating position and flexible cargo space – makes this a popular category amongst the buying public.

Lifestyle Category

The Lifestyle Utility Vehicles Category was won by the Ford Ranger Raptor. These vehicles typically offer supreme 4×4 ability and can be either an SUV or a single or double-cab bakkie.

Premium Car Category

The highly contested Premium Car Category was won by the overall winner, namely the Jaguar I-PACE EV400 AWD SE. Buyers of these prestigious mid to large vehicles want powerful engines, luxury features and high-end trim options.

Premium SUV Category

The Premium SUV Category caters for vehicles that offer a combination of versatility, comfort, style and performance both on- and off the road. Boasting genuine 4×4 ability without low range, these vehicles are luxurious, spacious and refined. This category was won by the Mercedes-Benz GLE400d 4Matic.

Sport / Performance Category

The final category – sport/performance – was won by the Toyota GR Supra 3.0T. Whether it’s a sportier flagship of an existing passenger range or a pure stand-alone model, vehicles in this category have one common trait: superior performance. Accordingly, thoroughbred sports cars are included in this category.

At first glance, the back of the vehicle has 33 multi-directionally movable “surface elements”, as Mercedes describes them. It’s highly reminiscent of a reptile’s scales, they flutter and ripple to add gestural communication to the vehicle. The automaker also foresees them as helping to add power to the EV.

Not only are Mercedes conscious about the earth, but the energy powering the VISION AVTR will be kept in a graphene-based organic battery cell, which means it will be completely rare earth and metal free. Step inside the vehicle and you’ll find that Mercedes has used vegan DINAMIC leather – a microfiber that promises environmental sustainability through its production cycle – for the trim on the seats, while the floor uses Karuun wood. A fast-growing and environmentally stable rattan, which is garnered in Indonesia.

The interface inside the vehicle is quite unique. Instead of a steering wheel, the Vision AVTR has a control stick slash pad slash patch in the centre console for moving the car about. When you place your hand over it, it raises up, and pushing it in the direction you want to go controls the car. The car does have a fully autonomous mode, in which the control surface will drop back into the console. When the control is at half height, the car still drives autonomously, but you can adjust the speed. As for the infotainment system, icons representing functions are projected onto your hand when you raise it up. You then select functions using hand gestures.

By now you’re probably wondering whether any of this headed to production and when it’ll reach out market. The answer is probably not, at least not in this form.

For Mzansi, there’ll be three engine options at first. The 2020 GLE 300 d 4MATIC, GLE 400d 4MATIC and GLE 450 4MATIC. For our review, we had the GLE 400 d 4MATIC which boasts a six-cylinder diesel engine comes with 243 kW and 700 Nm of torque. 0-100km/h arrives in 5.8 seconds.

In the GLE 400 d 4MATIC, all-wheel drive uses a fixed transfer case splitting power half and half, front to rear. While braking is used to prevent individual wheel spinning. There’s also the electronically controlled multi-disc clutch, which can shift anything from 0- to 100-percent of the torque to the front or rear axles.

As for the body, more than 3-inches length added to the wheelbase makes for a more poised-looking SUV and greater cabin space too. Short overhangs and flush-fitted wheels double-down on that, while an upright grille sits above chrome-plating on the underguard. The bonnet has twin power domes.

An Ultra Wide Beam LED Intelligent Light System skirts, Mercedes claims, just as close to the maximum the law permits as the automaker can currently go. There are 19- to 22-inch wheels, and optional illuminated running boards. Chrome cuts around the glass area.

At the back, the reflectors are lower, emphasizing the rear lamps. Mercedes has rounded the rear off, with a chrome-plated under guard. Inside, there are plenty hints of sedan and SUV in the cabin styling. The dashboard flows into the door panels, with a raised centre console and grab handles. Metal trim around the controls and a new sport steering wheel double-down on the premium feel.

Second row legroom is up 2.7-inches, to 41.1-inches, while headroom has increased by 1.3-inches. Optionally, the second row can have six-way power adjustment; a switch in the luggage compartment can fold the seat backs down altogether. Another switch can lower AIRMATIC air suspension equipped versions down around 1.6-inches for easier loading. The optional third row adds two more seats, which also fold. Electronically, of course.

The luggage capacity is up to 825 litres behind the rear seats, and up to 2055 litres when the second seat row is folded down. A 72 mm increase in through-loading width allows bulky items to be stowed more easily.

Technology, meanwhile, borrows liberally from Mercedes’ recent sedans and luxury coupes. There’s the new MBUX infotainment system, with natural language voice recognition and twin 12.3-inch screens as standard. An optional MBUX Interior Assistant uses a camera in the overhead console to track hand and arm movements of the driver and front passenger. For example, if the driver reaches out to adjust the seat massage, the 2020 GLE will understand which seat to change.

An augmented reality option for the navigation overlays directional arrows and house numbers atop a live view of the route ahead, shown on the dashboard display. A 720 x 240 head-up display is optional, and can show both on-road and off-road data.

Navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, blind-spot assistance, ATTENTION ASSIST, keyless start, Car-to-X communication, five USB ports, and LED headlamps and taillamps were installed on our review model. Further options will include 4-zone climate control, wireless phone charging, Driver Assistance with Active Traffic Jam Assist, the Energizing Comfort package, AMG Line upgrades, and a Burmester 3D Surround Sound audio system, among other extras.

If you missed my on-air review of the GLE 400d 4MATIC you can tune in by clicking play below

The new Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 d 4MATIC retails from R 1 351 200.

To introduce the vehicle, Mercedes-Benz invited us to a luxe road trip hosted in Cape Town. Seeing that this is one of our favourite cities, it was only fitting to experience it in the new V-Class.

What has changed on the 2020 V-Class? You may ask. The redesigned face incorporates a new grille above a deep and wide lower air intake, while ticking the AMG Line option box brings a ‘diamond’ radiator grille and a more aggressive bumper with a small lower intake flanked by wide, finned ducts on either side.

Minor tweaks at the rear include a switch to high-intensity LED tail-lights and a re-profiled bumper in the AMG Line package incorporating a central ‘diffuser’ section. Four new exterior colour choices are joined by four new alloy wheel designs.

Changes to the interior include new ‘double stripe’ trim elements, ‘turbine look’ air vents and an additional ‘tartufo’ (rich tan) leather option.

The range-topping model is designed to carry six people in the utmost luxury. Its cabin has been decked out with brushed aluminum-look trim on the center console, a leather-upholstered dashboard with contrast stitching, chromed accents around the air vents, and brushed aluminum pedals. All six captain’s chairs are upholstered with nappa leather, and the passengers benefit from a premium 16-speaker sound system manufactured by Burmester.

The center console from the outgoing model remains alongside its large integrated cooler and LED-illuminated cupholders that are both heated and cooled. The list of standard features includes a 230-volt outlet to keep mobile devices juiced up, numerous USB slots, navigation, a 360-degree camera that facilitates the task of maneuvering the van in tight spaces, and Mercedes’ crosswind assist technology.

S-Class limousine-style luxury rear seats with full recline function, back massage (with three intensity settings) and three ‘climatisation’ stages are optionally available at a price. Currently offered with a 140kW/440Nm 2.1-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, driving the rear wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Safety improvements include the addition of ‘Active Brake Assist’ (Merc-speak for AEB), and ‘Highbeam Assist Plus’ the three-pointed star’s active high beam system.

Functioning as a luxury people mover for private use or high-end business transport for professional drivers, with worldwide sales now exceeding 200,000 since the model’s global launch in 2014.

The new V-Class ranges from R 913 951.00 (including taxes) for the V 200d, to R 1 292 474.00 for the V 250d Avantgarde.