The all-new 2014 Mercedes-Benz Vito has officially been unveiled, and will go on sale in various configurations including the Vito panel van, the Vito Mixto and the Vito Tourer family.

Versatile new2014 Mercedes-Benz Vito

Described as a ‘van for all’, the 2014 Vito offers a best-in-class 1 369 kg of cargo capacity, which is the highest payload in its class. It comeswith a choice of rear-wheel, all-wheel and now front-wheel drive too.

The vehicle is also the only model in its class available in three lengths (4 895 mm, 5 140 mm, and 5 730 mm) which makes it 140 mm longer than its predecessor. The maximum vehicle height stands at 1 910 mm, to ensure that all versions can fit standard multi-storey car parks and automatic car washes.

Other highlights include a new body design with a Cd value reduced to 0.32, optimised suspension with new electro-mechanical steering, and a redesigned cabin offering more space to both driver and passenger. There’s also an optional Intelligent Light System (ILS) with LED low-beams, daytime running lights and indicators while the main beams have a cornering light function.

Two turbodiesel engines in five power ratings

It will come with two turbo diesel engines which will be in offered in five power options. FWD vehicles will use a new 1.6-litre four-cylinder unit developing 65 kW and 84 kW, while the RWD variants will be fitted with a 2.1-litre unit delivering 100 kW in the Vito 114 CDI, 120 kW in the Vito 116 CDI and 140 kW in the Vito 119 BlueTEC – the last pitched as the first Euro 6 engine in its class.

These engines are mated as standard to a six-speed manual, except for the Vito 119 BlueTEC which comes with a 7-speed automatic transmission. All versions are claimed to be on average 20 per cent more fuel efficient than their predecessors.

New assistance systems

In addition, Mercedes is claiming new safety standards for the Vito, saying that it is the only van in its class offering both driver and passenger airbags. Also all models are said to get powerful disc brakes all-round (with 16″ or 17″ braking system depending on the model), as well as Adaptive ESP as standard.

The new Vito’s standard equipment includes Attention Assist that monitors the driver’s condition and Crosswind Assist that “virtually eliminates the effects of gusts acting on the vehicle.” All models will also come with a tyre pressure monitoring system, and optionally with Active Parking Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.