Mercedes-Benz has given its Vito and Viano line-ups extensive facelifts, with BlueEfficiency fuel-saving technologies being part of the comprehensive upgrade. The revised Viano/Vito models are also the first Mercedes-Benz MPVs in South Africa to feature stop/start technology. Depending on the engine derivative, Mercedes claims fuel savings of up to 15 per cent.
The luxurious Viano features a new grille and revised head- and tail-lamps. Standard daytime driving lights, integrated in the headlamp housings, along with fog lamps, are standard on both models. Optional bi-xenon headlamps with a cornering function and LED daytime driving lights are also available. The facelift includes redesigned front and rear bumpers.
The spacious cabins of both vehicles feature minor changes, including a new shift lever, push buttons on the upper control panel of the centre console and an overhead control unit. All Viano models come standard with a four-spoke multi-function steering wheel whereas this is only standard on the Vito Sport and Shuttle models. A rear camera is an optional extra on both the Viano and the Vito. A new generation of radios (Audio 20) has been introduced on Sport and Shuttle models.
Both Viano and Vito sport new four-cylinder 2,2-litre CDI turbodiesel and V6 CDI engines that comply with Euro 5 emissions standards. The core of the line-up is the new-generation four-cylinder in-line unit that delivers 100 kW (113 CDI model) or 120 kW (116 CDI model). The V6 CDI pumps out an impressive 165 kW. BlueEfficiency technology, which features as standard for all Viano/Viano CDI diesel engine variants ensure lower CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. All diesel engines are equipped with an oxidation catalytic converter, particulate filter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation. Part of the package is a new ECO Gear six-speed manual transmission for all four-cylinder models that offer a broad gear ratio spread. For the first time a 3,5-litre V6 petrol engine is available – this unit has power and torque outputs of 190 kW and 340 N.m, respectively.
Besides engine and features upgrades, the Viano/Vito has also benefited from extensive modifications to its chassis – to such an extent that the front and rear axles have only their basic construction in common with the previous models, according to Mercedes-Benz
The Vito range extends from the basic eight-seater Function entry-level model to Crew Bus and Crew Cab variants and a top-spec Shuttle model has been added to the range.
As with other Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, the Viano comes standard with the MobiloDrive 120 maintenance plan and a two-years/unlimited km warranty.
The Vito has a two-years/unlimited-mileage warranty and also Mercedes-Benz CharterWay (on Crewcab and Crewbus) – a standard five-years/90 000 km service plan that can be upgraded to a full maintenance plan.
Pricing
Vito:
116CDI Panel Van – R315 210
113CDI Panel Van – R296 286
116CDI Crewcab – R383 610
122CDI Crewcab – R501 486
113CDI Function – R404 700
116CDI Crewbus – R454 900
116CDI Shuttle – R489 500
122CDI Shuttle – R569 000
Viano:
2,2 CDI Fun – R559 900
3,0 CDI Trend – R599 900
3,5 V6 Ambiente – R654 900
3,0CDI Ambiente – R659 900
