What's the news?

This week Mercedes-Benz revealed its new cabin design language that will debut in both the new C-Class and V-Class in 2014. As you would imagine, the interiors on both cars are not identical, but the style and gadgetry are both very similar.

2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

So, the C-Class. The first thing to notice about the new design is the swooping dashboard and centre console that appears to have been machined from a single piece of material. Mercedes claims that its use of organic materials on the dash is designed to create an air of space and luxury for its occupants; especially when you consider the absence of both a gear lever and handbrake in the automatic versions.

Once you've taken in the new design, your eyes will very quickly pick up the large infotainment screen adorning the top of the centre console. This high-definition monitor can measure up to 8.4-inches when specified with Mercedes' Comand Online system; and is controlled by a touchpad conveniently located at the end of the central armrest. The system is said to be as intuitive and easy to use as operating a smartphone, while simpler scrolling movements are done via the wheel beneath the touchpad.

More on the technology front is the new head-up display system that projects vital information in the driver's eye-line at a perceived distance of around two metres. The high-resolution and customisable display will show the driver a speedometer, speed limit information, satellite navigation instructions and messages from the Distronic Plus system.

Other features in the new C-Class include an 'Air-Balance' package, which essentially uses satellite information to detect when the car enters a tunnel and will adjust the climate control and air conditioning accordingly. Child safety is also paramount, as the C-Class can detect when a rear-facing child seat is installed and automatically deactivate the passenger air bag.

2014 Mercedes-Benz V-Class

The theme of clean sophistication is clearly continued in the V-Class - the largest passenger vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz fleet. For the dash, two defined layers have been created; each one designed to convey a sense of width and quality. Standard fit items include a leather bound steering wheel for the first time in this model; and the option to specify a leather-trimmed dashboard is also available. In the rear of the car the seats can be arranged in a variety of ways; including a set-up where four seats face inwards to allow for easier conversations.

In terms of technology, the V-Class has the same infotainment options as the C-Class. The V-Class also has the option of a Burmester 16-speaker surround sound system featuring a 10-channel DSP amplifier. The new model also benefits from an updated Thermotronic climate control system, which will adjust the intensity of cool air on either side of the car depending on the position of the sun. Clever stuff.

Elsewhere the V-Class now incorporates a separately opening rear window for the first time to make loading smaller items in tight spaces an easier task.

Safety features include Attention Assist to detect drowsiness, Crosswind Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Active Parking Assist, Collision Prevention Assist, Traffic Sign Assist and a 360-degree camera to make manoeuvring the massive V-Class as easy as possible.

Anything else?

Full details of individual specifications on both these models will become available in the weeks leading up to their launch dates, following on from their world debut at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show in January.

James Giddings - 24 Oct 2013