Mercedes-Benz is preparing the way for the introduction of its new Vito van and Viano people carrier, both of which are scheduled to arrive here in early October.
Destined to be a contender for the highly coveted Continental Irish Van of the Year Award, the new rear-wheel drive Vito and Viano have both benefitted from a comprehensive revamp that has seen improvements introduced in all departments, the most notable of which are measures designed to reduce running costs.
Thanks to the introduction of new engines and a new drive system, matched to the availability of new BlueEfficiency technology that has revolutionised emissions output in the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range, owners can anticipate an enhanced level of performance matched to lower fuel consumption and emissions levels that are up to 15 per cent lower than before, depending on the engine variant.
Other important changes include a new chassis that delivers better ride comfort, increased payload, upgraded appointments in the driver and passenger compartment, and a striking new facia that includes design elements influenced by features from the passenger car range; all matched to a robustness one expects from a commercial vehicle.
Exterior features include new reflector headlamps and daytime driving lights and a new upgraded front bumper design with honeycomb look that is optionally available in a painted and smoothed finish in the vehicle's exterior colour.
Five units make up the new Vito range – four diesel and one petrol - beginning with the 95bhp four-cylinder Vito 110 CDI. Others include the 136bhp 113 CDI, a more powerful 116 CDI and a top-of-the-range V6 224bhp 122 CDI version. A V6 258bhp petrol version is also available. Prices and exact specifications for the Irish market have not been finalised at this stage but expect new Vito van prices to increase by less than 3 per cent, which is good because a look back shows that it has been a while since the current model had a price increase.
All new models comply with the Euro 5 emissions standard and all diesels are equipped with an oxidation catalytic converter, a particulate filter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation. A new six-speed ECO Gear manual transmission on all four-cylinder models offers a broad gear ratio spread for optimum performance with low fuel consumption and emission levels.
Describing it as a ’van for all reasons’, Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles sales manager Fergus Conheady said that the new Vito’s lower emissions, reduced running costs, attractive good looks, latest technology, and all-round workability will combine to make it one of the most competitive vans on the Irish market.
