Mercedes-Benz appears to be broadening the powertrain options for its new VLE luxury minivan, with spy photographs taken in Europe showing a prototype that combines electric drive with a combustion engine. The images reveal a vehicle that shares the same basic shape and sheetmetal as the electric VLE unveiled earlier this year, but with several key modifications that point to a hybrid variant.
The most obvious difference is the front grille. Where the electric VLE has a blanked-off nose with no radiator opening, the white prototype spotted testing features a large conventional grille that allows air to flow through to cool an internal combustion engine. Further evidence comes at the rear, where the van has two filler flaps — one on each rear quarter panel. The electric version has only a single charging flap on the passenger side, meaning the second flap on this prototype is almost certainly for petrol.
Close-up shots of the rear also hint at the presence of an exhaust muffler beneath the rear floor, although the tailpipes themselves are carefully concealed. Mercedes has not disclosed which engine might be used, but the most likely candidate is the 1.5-litre four-cylinder unit already offered in the new CLA sedan. In the CLA, that engine works alongside an electric motor housed within an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, producing up to 187 horsepower in all-wheel-drive form.
If that powertrain is carried over, the hybrid VLE would be significantly less powerful than its electric siblings. The electric VLE300 delivers 272 horsepower, while the VLE400 raises output to 409 horsepower, enough to accelerate the flagship van from zero to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds. The hybrid would prioritise efficiency and extended range over outright pace, though it should match the electric versions for interior space and luxury.
The VLE’s generous 120.9-inch wheelbase is expected to carry over unchanged, providing room for between six and eight occupants across three rows. Buyers opting for the higher trim levels will be able to specify Mercedes’ MBUX Superscreen infotainment setup across the dashboard, while rear passengers can enjoy a 31.3-inch 8K display that folds down from the roof.
Mercedes has not yet confirmed official details or a launch date for the hybrid VLE, but the prototype’s appearance suggests a debut in early 2027 is likely, with customer deliveries expected to begin in the second half of that year. The move would give the German marque a broader offering in the luxury van segment, catering to buyers who want electrification without relying solely on battery power.
The hybrid variant would sit alongside the electric VLE models, which remain the focus of Mercedes’ initial launch push. The addition of a combustion option reflects the continuing appeal of hybrid powertrains in larger vehicles, where towing, long-distance travel and charging infrastructure can still influence purchasing decisions. For now, the prototype remains a test mule, but its existence confirms that Mercedes is keeping its options open as it prepares to bring the VLE to market.