As for the camper Marco Polo, it is available in two trim levels also. The entry-level Sport model comes with all the equipment that a standard V-Class benefits from plus the addition of two seater luxury sofa bed, three-zone climate control, pop-up roof with a double bed, yacht wood flooring, swivelling front seats, and a kitchenette – complete with refrigeration box, a gas hob, sink and multiple cupboard space. Upgrade to the AMG Line version and find all the AMG-styled appendage found on an equivalent V-Class plus added chrome, and sports suspension.
But while the switchgear and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class-derived metallic infotainment scroller feel impressive to touch, other areas bend and squeak, while our test car exhibited continuous rattles from the parcel shelf assembly, detracting from the generally high-end feel.
The driver’s high seating position is excellent, though, offering very good forward visibility, even if the thick A-pillars obscure the side view somewhat. The rear view is obscured by the third row of seats, but standard parking sensors and rear-view camera make light work of tight parking situations.
Sport trim features a 7.0in colour infotainment system as standard, and it benefits from bright, modern graphics that are easy to follow and three-layer menus that are simple enough to navigate.
The front seats have a good range of adjustability, as do those of the middle row, which get a reclining backrest, two armrests and a folding picnic table. Each can be slid forward and back, as well as tilted forward to allow easier access to the third row, which can also be slid back and forth.
With the middle row sensibly positioned, three adults will have enough head and leg room in the third row, even if shoulder room is a little tight. None of the seven seats provide brilliant comfort, though, feeling quite flat on the base and not providing much in the way of lateral support.
With all seven seats in their normal positions, boot space is tight, but this can be improved by pushing the rear two rows forward, at the expense of legroom. Of course, all five rear seats can be removed entirely, but they’re heavy, cumbersome things to lift out and store.
