Mercedes-Benz is taking direct control of its Marco Polo campervan production, shifting assembly from external specialist Westfalia to its own Ludwigsfelde plant. This move signals a serious push to challenge Volkswagen’s dominant California model in the premium campervan segment. The goal: a more refined, integrated “home on wheels” experience.
Enhanced Comfort and Tech
The updated Marco Polo boasts several key improvements aimed at luxury and convenience. A redesigned pop-up roof now offers an extra 100mm of headroom, paired with customizable LED ambient lighting – from energizing bright tones to warm, relaxing hues. A sliding roof panel provides unobstructed stargazing, while a quick-deploy awning with a hidden crank simplifies setup and takedown.
Inside, magnetic window covers, updated storage solutions, and a more efficient refrigerator enhance usability. The infotainment system has been upgraded to control features like the roof, lighting, and an eight-speaker stereo directly from the central display or via the MBAC smartphone app.
New Horizon Variant Broadens Appeal
Previously limited to high-end trims, the Marco Polo will now include a new “Horizon” variant. This trim removes the built-in kitchen and storage units, opting for a rear bench seat instead. Mercedes positions this as an ideal leisure vehicle for shorter trips and weekend getaways, suggesting a strategy to lower the entry price from the current ~£90,000 starting figure.
Electrification on the Horizon
Mercedes confirms that an all-electric Marco Polo is in development, based on its Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) platform. The electric version is expected to arrive by the end of the decade, aligning with the broader industry trend toward sustainable mobility.
By bringing production in-house and expanding the model range, Mercedes aims to solidify its position as a leader in the high-end campervan market. The move demonstrates a commitment to integrating luxury, technology, and convenience into the “glamping” experience.
