Mercedes-Benz is set to renew its challenge in the premium MPV market in the autumn, when the new Viano comes down the assembly line. The new vehicle bears little resemblance to the V-Class it replaces, which was far too close to the outgoing Vito van on which it was based to be a real contender against the likes of Toyota's Previa, for instance.
The new car was developed in tandem with a completely new Vito. It shares the distinctive lines which that commercial vehicle will have. The Viano also shares the engines and transmissions, but features more luxurious trim and fittings.
In some respects it's the Vito owner who may be gaining most, because the decision to use components such as dashboard and instrumentation elements directly from those in the Mercedes-Benz car range leaves them in no doubt of the quality of what he or she is driving.
The Viano will be available with two CDI diesels, of 109 and 150 bhp output in two and 2.2-litre sizes. There will be three and 3.2-litre petrol V6 petrol units, generating 190 and 218 hp respectively.
The seating layout can run to accommodation for eight people, but the vehicle allows real limousine room if limited to six. Seats are carried on an aircraft-style "track" system, which can make for wide flexibility in format, including the possibility of having the rear two rows face each other in what could be a mobile boardroom or drawing room.
Though there's still nothing like Opel's Flex systems, which hide unneeded seats away rather than having to remove them to one's garage.
Still, Mercedes offers an optional "desk" system which provides a really workable tabletop that won't wilt at the weight of a laptop.
All the electronic gadgetry for communications, navigation and entertainment that's available in the cars can be had also in the Viano. It also comes with every electronic safety gizmo, including an electronic stability programme as standard throughout the range.
Mercedes engineers say they expect to get a four-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests, and similar performance in the US tests - important because, for the first time, the Vito and its MPV variant will be sold, and eventually built, in the US.
In usual Mercedes practice, the Viano will be available in several specification trims, including Trend, Ambiente and - not likely to be a big seller in Ireland - the Marco Polo motor caravan version with the Westphalia pop-top.
Electronic climate control is available - and air-conditioning is likely to be standard.
On a number of runs through the vineyards and forests of the Rheingau, the Viano seemed very composed and comfortable on sometimes awkward roads, and nimble enough in the narrow village streets.
The 150 bhp 2.2-litre diesel is likely to be of most interest in Ireland, though a 3.2-litre petrol showed considerable smooth power promise, if economy is not at the top of the owner's list.
Prices or true specifications for Ireland have not yet been finalised.