The Vito has a vast range of standard safety equipment which is a real bonus
What’s not?
- Our front-drive test van is powered by the new 88bhp, 1.6-litre 109 CDI turbo diesel that’s supplied by Renault. Although smoother than the 2.1-litre twin-turbo diesel, this engine feels swamped in this Vito Long panel van body. You’ll get to know the slick speed dash-mounted six-speed manual very well if you go for this engine, as any sign of an incline will see you drop not one, but up to two gears. Imagine that plus a heavy load? Acceleration to 62mph takes 18.9 seconds and the top speed is just 97mph.
- The ride and handling of the new Vito impresses, but the new electro-magnetic steering seems totally devoid of any feel, which is a shame.
- It might feel high quality and built to last, but some of the textured plastics and the plastic-trimmed steering wheel feel low-rent and as though they’ll look worn quickly.
- The foot pedal-mounted handbrake feels old and is difficult to use. Why no electronic handbrake?
Verdict on the Mercedes Vito 109CDI Long panel van
The new Mercedes Vito has to be one of the van highlights of 2015, but the 109CDI Long panel van wouldn’t be our pick of the range. Yes, the 1.6 CDI is smooth and the running costs are economical, but the shortcomings of this engine become immediately obvious as soon as you hit the open road where this Vito feels underpowered and slow.
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