A NEW hi-tech common rail diesel engine is to appear in the V-class - Mercedes-Benz' people carrier - which made its debut at Geneva. And, simultaneously, all V-class models receive enhancements to both the interior and exterior along with additional safety and comfort features as standard.

However, on-the-road prices remain unchanged for the existing models while the new V220 CDI diesel will cost £22,390 for Trend and Fashion and £26,290 for the Ambiente.

The 2.2-litre direct injection engine is already available in A-class, C-class and E-class models and in the V-class it means the six or seven-seater people carrier will return close to 45mpg in urban driving. Engine improvements to existing petrol-engined V-class models see both the 2.3 litre V230 and the 2.8 litre V280 now have more efficient CANbus engine management networks meaning all models now only need oil changes at every 14,000 miles.