Mercedes-Benz to Unveil the VLE Van on March 10, 2026

 Mercedes-Benz will unveil the VLE, the first of two upcoming luxury minivans, on March 10.

• It will be the first of two production versions inspired by the Vision V concept.

• The VLE will serve as the minivan counterpart to the E-Class.

• Both gasoline and electric versions are expected.

Mercedes-Benz will introduce the luxury minivan segment to North America when it launches the VLE early next year. The German automaker is taking a chance in Canada and the United States with a market category that is highly popular in China and Europe, but remains unknown to North Americans.

To achieve this, the company is finalizing the development of two new models, the first of which will be officially unveiled in Stuttgart on March 10.

Named the VLE, this model is intended to be a more spacious take on the E-Class, serving as both family transport and an exclusive shuttle. Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that there will be no cargo version of this model, differentiating it from the previous Sprinter and Metris.

Inspired by the Vision V concept presented last year, the VLE will offer up to 8 seats and a choice of electric or gasoline powertrains.

Teaser images released by Mercedes-Benz show a silhouette closely resembling the concept, featuring an illuminated grille contour and a hood ornament. The headlights mirror the style introduced by the brand’s most recent models, incorporating three-pointed star elements surrounding the LED projectors.

The Vision V concept will also give rise to the VLS, an even more luxurious minivan that could serve as an alternative to the S-Class or GLS for executive transport or chauffeur-driven personal use.

Both the VLE and VLS will sit on a new platform unique to these models. According to the manufacturer, this architecture will allow them to combine the ride smoothness of a limousine with the versatility of a minivan.

Pre-series production of the VLE began in September at the Vitoria plant in Spain, where the production versions will be assembled for availability during the first half of 2026. The unveiling of the VLS is expected to follow in the months after the VLE’s arrival.

If these models find success in North America, it could encourage other premium manufacturers, such as Lexus and Volvo, to offer their Asian-market minivans in our region.