Available for sale next year, the 2028 Mercedes-Benz VLE will be an all-electric “van”, with increased mileage and loads of high-tech gizmos inside.
Its exterior is cleaner than boxy. The front end features a prominent grille that can be ordered with an illuminated surround, lighting elements with a star-like look, and a power-dome hood topped by a tri-star ornament.
However, the German-based carmaker is also throwing an AMG variant, which means plenty of tuning-like upgrades, such as fresh bumper and grille with centered-start emblem. Other standout features also include 19- to 22-inch alloy wheels, arc-type taillights at the back, as well as an opening rear window and a charging-port door that opens downward. Flush door handles and retractable sliding-door windows complete the new body enhancements.
Size is another story. In its standard form, the VLE will be 209 inches long, 78.7 inches wide, and 76.5 inches tall, with a wheelbase of 131.6 inches. However, the longer versions arriving late will stretch to 215.9 inches and sit on a 138.5-inch wheelbase.
As for technological goodies that come with the new VLE, we should mention the all-star MBUX Superscreen, with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment system, as well as a separate 14-inch screen for the passengers.
Rear occupants can really enjoy the ride thanks to a 31.3-inch panoramic display that folds down from the headliner. That setup brings 8K resolution, split-screen capability, and even an eight-megapixel camera for teleconferencing.
Beyond the screens, the VLE leans hard into comfort. Buyers will be able to configure it with six to eight seats, including layouts with captain’s chairs or rear benches. Mercedes also says manually operated seats can be fitted with four integrated wheels so they can be rolled in or out of the vehicle with little effort. Step further up the range, and the seats become electrically adjustable through either the infotainment system or a smartphone app. Premium Comfort and Grand Comfort chairs are also on the menu, with the latter adding a foot rest, lumbar support, massage, a pillow, and a wireless phone charger.
Depending on the trim involved, the new Mercedes-Benz VLE will come with great power and increased mileage. However, the carmaker has given information on just two powertrains so far.
The VLE 300, for instance, will come with a front motor and a 115 kWh NMC battery. The total output stands at 272 horsepower, while the mileage stands at around 700 km. On the other hand, the VLE 400 4MATIC comes with two electric motors, with 425 horsepower.
2028 Mercedes-Benz VLE – Video Show-Off
