Hands-on with the Mercedes Vito

Fresh from the news that the Mercedes Vito has revised its trim levels for 2019, Vansdirect got hands-on with the excellent medium van from Mercedes vans.

Introduction to the Mercedes Vito van

Part of the thriving Mercedes vans range alongside the Mercedes Citan, Mercedes Sprinter and Mercedes X-Class, the Mercedes Vito carries the luxury theme associated with the iconic brand into the medium van segment, competing against some of the biggest hitters in the UK new van market such as the Ford Transit Custom, Volkswagen Transporter and Vauxhall Vivaro vans. Comfortable, luxurious and reliable, Mercedes vans recently revised the range of the Mercedes Vito, introducing three trim levels all loaded with standard features.

Inside the cab of the Mercedes Vito van

The cabin of the Mercedes Vito is both comfortable and practical, whilst there is seating for three (including the driver). You'll find additional storage space in the form of a functional storage compartment and a multifunction steering wheel ensuring you keep your eyes on the road whilst on the move. Even base level Pure models get impressive cabin features including a leather steering wheel and a 5-inch TFT screen housing an infotainment system complete with bluetooth, USB, AUX and SD card connectivity. An eight-way adjustable driver's seat ensures you're comfortable and get a perfect view of the road ahead.

Load area

The Mercedes Vito is available in three lengths: compact, long and extra long, the model we got to play with was a long model, both these and extra long models can accommodate up to three Europallets. The Vito load area is easy to access with twin sliding side doors and rear doors which open to 180 degrees. Folding load-securing rings keep your vital cargo safe and secure. This long model caters for load volumes up to 6.3 cubic metres, whilst extra long models offer 6.9 cubic metres, highly competitive in the segment.

How was the Mercedes Vito van to drive?

The model we tested featured the 111CDI engine offering 112ps, this 1.6-litre diesel engine comes with front-wheel drive, offering the perfect balance of economy and punchy performance to thrive when being using primarily in towns and cities, however having used the van to cruise down the motorway it was also equally impressive on those parts whilst being hooked to a smooth six-speed manual transmission. Automatic lights kept the road well-lit ahead, whilst parking sensors and active park assist helped us squeeze into the tightest of spots, whilst the twin-sliding side doors meant we could still access the cargo area after doing so.

What other engines are available?

The 111CDI engine from Mercedes vans is available in Pure and Progressive trim levels and is one of no fewer than five different available power outputs. Larger 2.1-litre diesel engines are also available on Progressive and top spec Premium models with a selection of manual and seven-speed automatic gearboxes dependent on the model that you opt for.

What other features are available?

Pure models are generously equipped with features, whilst moving up to Progressive models brings: uprated infotainment setup with colour screen, wheel trims, metallic paint, front fog lights, colour coded bumpers, cruise control and driver's seat lumbar support. Top spec Premium models top the range with features such as: 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, reversing camera, velour floor mats and pre-installation for satellite navigation.

New Mercedes Vito vans for sale

At Vansdirect we have the Mercedes Vito van for sale and in stock and ready to go, with cheap van finance options available including van leasing and contract hire from ONLY £239pm. Interested? Simply fill in a contact form or call us on 0800 169 69 95, we also offer cars!