Mercedes-Benz has bolstered its commercial product line-up with the release of the third generation Vito. Its designed to meet myriad business requirements, which is why the Vito’s offered in panel van and transporter forms and, for the first time, will be available in 1,6 CDI (front-wheel drive) or 2,2 CDI (rear-wheel drive) configurations.
The entry-level 111 Vito is available as a panel van, tourer or mixto (panel van/tourer hybrid) and is powered by a 84 kW/270 N.m 1,6-litre turbodiesel engine mated with a six-speed manual gearbox. The 111 is equipped with a fully independent suspension with MacPherson struts at the front and has a very impressive range of (standard-specification) driving aids such as crosswind assist, start-off assist and attention assist.
The 111’s front-wheel-driven configuration facilitates an increased payload of 1 344 kg, which is beneficial, but its moderate engine outputs are hard to ignore given the long gearing of the six-speed manual and turbo lag that ends at around 2 200 r/min.
The Vito has a pleasant ride quality (at least by the standards of a utility vehicle), but whereas the driver’s seat is comfortable to sit in, the non-adjustable passenger seats are notably less so. The cabin has a simple and functional layout and offers generous occupant space – so much so that three adults can sit in a row. Interior noise is also minimal thanks to the use of high-quality insulation. At freeway speeds and on fairly rough surfaces, there’s little wind noise, but a degree of tyre rumble is present.
In essence the 111 is a perfect commercial vehicle for urban driving conditions, but long distance journeys – including those with numerous inclines – could prove tiresome by virtue of the Benz’s limited outputs and uncomfortable passenger seating. The 111 is also extremely basic and has very few options as standard. Prices start at R372 780.
The 116 seems a more refined product compared with the 111. With 120 kW and 380 N.m on tap, it is also a lot more capable on road. Because it of its rear-wheel drive configuration, it has a lower payload, however. Turbo lag is still evident, but it ends sooner than in the 111, which means the six-speed manual gearbox should suit the model fine. A seven-speed G-tronic Plus transmission is optional on this model, but would only make sense for long distance driving; not in commercial applications.
The 116 works well as a rear-wheel drive commercial vehicle with the added bonus of offering an extra 36 kW. It is respectably equipped and prices start at R443 460.
The top of the range 119 is only available as a tourer and features a 2,2 CDI with 140 kW and 440 N.m of torque. It has, inter alia, active park assist, heated seats, ECO start/stop function and 20-inch spoke alloys as standard. From behind the helm, the 119 delivers a distinctive premium feel, but its not as upmarket as the V-Class. Prices start at R744 386.
The new Vito range offers business operators a very broad selection of products to choose from and especially the 111 and 116 should prove very capable workhorses especially now that the line-up’s service plan has been extended by 30 000 km.
Don’t expect it to be as luxurious as anything from Mercedes-Benz’s passenger line-up, however. If a luxury liner is what you are looking for then the V-Class is the way to go.
