WATCH: How to pimp Mercedes-Benz V-Class van Shanghai-style

Despite being one of the most popular brands in China as evident by the S-Class being especially, Mercedes-Benz provided the most unusual offering at this year’s Shanghai Auto Show by focusing largely on one model; the V-Class.

Watch V-Class vans in Shanghai

In response to not only the massive popularity of the luxury MPV segment, but also the long time runaway success that is the Buick GL8, the three-pointed star showcased several coachbuilt versions of the V-Class ranging from the discreet to the outrageous.

A process Benz seemingly hasn’t objected to, the series of touches range from high roof conversions and GLS-style mono-block alloy wheels, to S-Class Maybach derived grilles, some way too big prominent for their own good and somewhat over-the-top two-tone paint options.

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If that isn’t already extreme, the demands of the Chinese buyer knows no boundaries as inside, the level of fit-and-finish eclipses the garish exterior by some way.

From tacky to gold

While the basic cabin design is unchanged from the standard V-Class, depending on the coachbuider, the trim pieces and colours vary extensively from tacky wood to gold applique and even carbon fibre.

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The main drawing card of these V-Class conversions is to be found at the rear though, where six seats often feature, though some variants did come with four.

This is only the start of the customisation process, however, as television screens have been incorporated into a custom bulkhead behind the front seats, the seats themselves fitted with heating elements, plus the ability to recline.

Perhaps the most outrageous example was by a local firm, its name only readable in Mandarin equipped with only only a television, but also two rear seats with a centre console and command module, and what appears to be titles instead of carpeting on the floor.

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Based on China-only model

Although aimed at the GL8, Toyota Alphard, and Maxus G20 the coachbuilt V-Class is based on the same model, the V260 L sold exclusively in China.

As the L suffix alludes to, the V260 has had its overall length increased, a trait that has been the norm for most manufacturers for years in response to rear seat legroom being of particular importance in a country where most premium vehicles are usually chaffaeur-driven.

In terms of power, the V260 gets the same engine as the previous generation C300 sold in South Africa, namely a 2.0-litre petrol-turbo sending its 155kW/350Nm to the rear wheels via the 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox.

Unsurprisingly, no pricing details of any of the V-Class conversions were revealed, but expect this to matter little to buyers wanting something not only unique to the GL8 or regular V260 L, but with luxury and space a Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan simply won’t be able to fulfill.