Mercedes-Benz VLE review
Optional Airmatic suspension reinforces that impression, with an excellent ride and disciplined body control, and there is little of the float often associated with large MPVs. On the downside, the brake pedal has a somewhat vague bite point, but its regen system, adjustable via steering wheel paddles, ranges from near coasting to one-pedal driving in town.
Performance is entirely fit for purpose. The single-motor, front-drive VLE 300 delivers strong low-speed response and effortless overtaking performance, although hard acceleration can occasionally provoke a trace of torque steer. The dual-motor, four-wheel-drive VLE 400 4Matic is more resolved, deploying its power cleanly and providing excellent traction.
What stays with you is the sense of effortlessness. The VLE shrinks around you in town, cruises with impressive refinement and combines comfort with genuine practicality and versatility.
The forthcoming Maybach VLS may ultimately become the headline act in Mercedes-Benz’s new electric van family when it is launched in the UK next year. But it is the VLE that will carry the weight of the company’s ambitions. Bolder in appearance, more spacious and significantly more refined than the EQV, it broadens the appeal of the large, van-based MPV considerably.
Mercedes-Benz VLE 300Refined and sophisticated, with outstanding manoeuvrability, long-distance comfort, efficiency and versatility
Price £75,000 (est) Engine Permanent magnet synchronous motor Power 272bhp Torque 279lb ft Gearbox 1-spd reduction gear, FWD Kerb weight 3500kg 0-62mph 9.5sec Top speed 112mph Battery 115kWh (usable) Range, economy 414 miles, 3.1mpkWh CO2, tax band 0g/km, 4% Rivals VW ID Buzz LWB, Peugeot E-Traveller, Ford E-Tourneo Custom, Kia PV5 Traveller
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