Mercedes Vito 109CDI Long panel van 3.05t review: cracking new competitor in the medium panel van sector

The Mercedes Vito puts Ford and Vauxhall clearly in its crosshairs

Mercedes Vito 109CDI Long panel van

What is it?

THIS is the all-new Mercedes Vito in 109 CDI front-drive panel van trim. The new Mercedes Vito is now available in the UK and designed to take on both the Ford Transit Custom and Vauxhall Vivaro. So how does the new contender shape up? Here’s our new Mercedes Vito review.

What’s hot?

• Very obviously a Mercedes, but the new Vito looks sharp – especially at the front with the latest version of the new family grille and those upswept headlights, which make this new Mercedes van stand out against rivals.
• The high quality, well-made feel to the Vito’s interior and switchgear is very Mercedes and a cut above its competitors.
• We like the curvy, almost car-like design of the Vito’s dashboard. Logically located switchgear is another bonus.
• Drivers who spend a lot of time behind the wheel will find much to like about the new Vito’s driving position, which seems lower and more car-like than before. All-round visibility is generally good too.
• The impressive list of standard safety kit including the expected airbags, ESP traction control and ABS brakes. Plus, the new Mercedes has extra clever features including Crosswind Assist, which stops the Vito from rolling over in a sudden sideways gust and Attention Assist, which can detect when a driver is falling asleep. We can’t vouch for the Attention Assist, but the Crosswind Assist definitely works, as we experienced on the windy M40 test route.
• It’s not just the safety kit that’s impressive on the new Vito, the standard equipment is pretty comprehensive too. Neat features include the multi-function steering wheel, standard Bluetooth and electric windows.
• Despite the performance, this Vito is still capable of 54.3mpg on the Combined Cycle, with CO2 emissions of 163g/km.
• The way this new Vito handles and in particular rides, is possibly the standout feature of this new van. Yes the tall body equals quite a bit of body roll, but this van is a safe handler with plenty of grip. Even on the most pockmarked roads of Northampton, we were amazed by how composed the Vito remained. This is probably partly due to the semi-trailing arm rear axle and coil springs.