Mercedes-Benz has taken the wraps off its facelifted Vito, with the range now including an all-electric eVito Tourer variant.
In addition, the Stuttgart-based firm has added the latest OM654 four-cylinder turbodiesel engine family to the Vito line-up, while also updating infotainment and driving assistance systems.
The updated Vito will be offered (in Europe, at least) in a choice of three lengths, two wheelbases and three drive systems.
So, what do we know about the new eVito Tourer? Well, Mercedes describes it as an “emission-free specialist for passenger transportation” that could be used as a hotel shuttle, a taxi or a vehicle for ride-sharing services. It will be offered in a basic 5 140 mm long body or an “extra-long” version measuring 5 370 mm nose to tail. Up to nine seats will be offered.
Its electric powertrain sends 150 kW to the front axle, with energy stored in a 100 kWh lithium-ion battery sited in the vehicle’s underbody and a water-cooled on-board charger (with alternating current with an output of 11 kW) included. Top speed of the standard model is 140 km/h, although ticking the right box will raise that to 160 km/h. Range is rated at a claimed 421 km.
And combustion engine options? Well, the latest 2,0-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine drives the rear wheels (with the option of all-wheel drive, too) and is offered in 75 kW, 100 kW, 120 kW and 140 kW forms for the Vito panel van. Interestingly, the seven-speed automatic transmission has been ditched in favour of a nine-speed unit.
In the Vito Tourer and the Vito Mixto, the oil-burning engine generates 176 kW and 500 N.m, along with an additional 30 Nm offered “briefly” on overboost. This model will sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 7,9 seconds, says Mercedes, before topping out at 210 km/h.
In addition, as a variant with front-wheel drive, Benz says the Vito will be available with an “entry-level engine” from the OM622 family; a transversely installed 1,7-litre four-cylinder diesel unit offering 75 kW and mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.
Options (depending on the derivative, of course) will include air suspension, extended driver assistance systems, LED exterior lighting and a digital inside rear-view mirror. Inside, you’ll find new fabric finishes, redesigned air vents and updated infotainment systems, while Mercedes has broadened the range of exterior paint colours and wheel options on offer.
