Another Mercedes-Benz newcomer – this time in the shape of their popular mid-size Vito van – has arrived on the Irish market, brim-full of premium fitments and all-inclusive high-tech features.
Overall model choice consists of three distinct versions beginning with a conventional, load carrying Vito panel van. In addition, a Vito Mixto van-come-crew carrier and all-seater Vito Tourer options are available. All models are powered by a conventional four-cylinder diesel engine or by an all-electric eVito battery, depending on preference. In addition to BASE, two additional equipment lines PRO and SELECT are offered.
Set to open what Fergus Conheady, sales manager for Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles in Ireland terms: a “world of connectivity and digital experiences”, the Vito’s customer base extends from corporate owners, van hire and fleet operators to small businesses and self-employed engineers, trades people, professional services, and parcel delivery specialists amongst whom, Conheady said: “it has proven to be a favourite”.
Describing the appeal Vito is likely to have within the market, Conheady added: “in its latest configuration, the new Vito has moved to a new level in terms of the comfort, connectivity, driver assist, and safety systems included within its standard specifications”.
Positioned within the Mercedes-Benz van range between the award-winning Citan and the large capacity Sprinter, Vito has proven itself a highly competitive performer in the mid-size van segment over the 25 years since it was introduced. With a payload up to 1,354 kilograms, and a gross vehicle weight set between 2.8 and 3.2 tons, Vito arrives in three lengths and on two wheelbase options.
The new Vito launches in Ireland from €35,106 for the 110 panel van version with base equipment line.
Connectivity
For customers whose operations could benefit from digital networking, connectivity and a host of other digital extras that can make work significantly more efficient, Mercedes-Benz has comprehensively upgraded the standard equipment on the Vito and tailored the logic of the equipment packages even more precisely to customer requirements.
One key feature is the acclaimed Mercedes-Benz MBUX multimedia system with intelligent “Hey Mercedes” voice assistance, all centred around a dash-mounted 10.25-inch touch screen display. Moreover, through the addition of a ‘Mercedes me’ app feature, drivers can connect to a suite of interactive, remotely operated controls, monitors, safety supports and assistance features. Other standard tech elements include additional safety systems, and an expanded range of driver assistance systems.
Items include reversing camera, smartphone connectivity, increased comfort levels, keyless start, electric parking brake, and a high-quality appearance reflected in its new grille and frontal design, and new light alloy wheels. New cockpit design features include a 5.5-inch colour display and new steering wheel with menu selection touch controls. Other design changes include a new radiator grille, LED lights front and rear, new front camera and five new paint colour choices.
A comprehensive range of standard and optional safety features includes numerous driver-assist items such as Active Brake Assist with emergency and cross traffic functions, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Active Steering Assist, Driving Light Assist including rain sensor, Intelligent Speed Assist, Cruise Control, and reversing camera.
Power to the new Vito comes from Mercedes-Benz proven and efficient 2.0 litre, four-cylinder diesel engine. The battery powered eVito van is equipped with a 60kWh battery. The electric motor has a peak output of 85 kW (116 hp) and a continuous output of 70 kW (95 hp) with a range up to 319 kms. Transmission is 9G-Tronic or 6-speed manual.
