The Mercedes Vito may be a less popular van than its robust relative, the acclaimed Sprinter, yet it still is one of the best vehicles among its niche in the market. The Sprinter continues to be Mercedes favourite van-child, with many customers drawn to its ruggedness, efficiency, and visual appeal. The less heralded Vito, however, still remains a safe bet for customers seeking vehicles in its size category. Not only can its load space comfortably accommodate refrigerating equipment, it now finally offers both front and rear-wheel-drive that can be used with any of the two wheelbase options and the three body lengths.

Load Space

The cargo space capacity of the Mercedes Vito may not be the largest among the wide range of mid-size refrigerated vans, it is, however, able to haul a variety of items and materials while also remaining as compact as ever. The reason for this relatively low carrying capacity is the absence of a high-roof body that is peculiar with the mid-size refrigerated vans. The body length variants of the Vito are able to withstand maximum load lengths that are between 2,433mm and 2,908mm. The load volumes or cargo space capacity in the Vito variants also ranges from 194.2 cubic feet to 233 cubic feet. The less common rear-wheel-drive model of the Vito, which surprisingly is its principal vehicle, is able to tolerate an impressive amount of load with payload values of 1,289kg and 1,369kg.

Engine

With an engine system that is received from Renault, the Vito is able harness efficient power for easy driving even across difficult terrains. Its pair of diesel engines help power the different variants of the compact mid-sized vehicle. The smaller 1.6-litre engine, which comes with four cylinders, is mostly fitted into the Vito models with front wheel drive. The larger and more efficient 2.1-litre diesel engine, however, powers the rear-drive vans. The highly improved engines are both Euro6 compliant, possessing outputs that spread from 87bhp and can reach 188bhp.

Cabin

The interior of the latest Mercedes Vito finally severs the similarity in feature that it shares with the Mercedes V-Class passenger can. The interior design of the Vito has a professional touch that allows it to blend effortlessly with the industrial function of the vehicle. And though the excellent simplicity that defines most Mercedes vehicles isn’t lacking, the Vito still succeeds to pull away from the signature interior features peculiar to the brand.

The storage option for items are also plentifully abound, although items and equipments that are large in size may struggle to find compartments that will fit them.

Safety

With safety being a paramount factor that controls Mercedes’ production processes, the Vito like all other Mercedes products, is packed with safety tools and devices that protect the occupants of the vehicle and aids the driving process. Driver and passenger airbags remain features that are standard in all Vito models, though there are some versions that may have up to eight airbags. Some other safety features that may also be found in the Vito include ABS brakes, EBD brake force distribution, ASR skid control, BAS hydraulic brake assist, and EUC understeer control.

Driving

Depending on the variation of the Vito refrigerator van, it can be used for light urban work or for heavy duty tasks that usually involve lots of mileages. The feel of the vehicle when plying the road is also very comfortable regardless of the weight being hauled.