Vito gets a nip and tuck!

This year, the Mercedes-Benz Vito turns 25 and this popular vehicle – available locally in Panel Van, Tourer and Mixto guise – has received a nip and tuck. And, in its latest guise, it represents an irresistible proposition.

One thing is certain: this 25-year-old is a massive success. Since the launch of the first generation in 1996, more than 1,8 million Vitos have been sold. And, with its latest facelift, we can see that number growing and growing …

Nadia Trimmel, Vice-President of Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa, says that the facelift is being introduced to the South African market at a challenging time. “But as we know, challenges bring new opportunities and the Vito is a perfect solution for the upsurge in online shopping and logistics that accompany this, in terms of staff transportation, cargo and package deliveries,” she tells FOCUS.

“At Mercedes-Benz Vans, we are confident that the Vito facelift will play an integral part in this upsurge by being a valued partner to a number of small, medium and large enterprises in our country, as industries evolve amid changing consumer preferences.”

So, what are the highlights of this facelift and what benefits do they offer to transport operators?

Good-looking: inside and out

The latest Vito is undeniably good-looking – both inside and out. The interior of the entire Vito range has been updated, and the hard-wearing and elegant “Caluma” fabric replaces the previous “Tunja” fabric. It features a white stripe pattern on the seat cushion and backrest, while the sides and headrest are finished off in a long-lasting black.

The Vito facelift includes new ventilation nozzles (similar to the class-leading V-Class) with a sporty turbine look on the left and right edges of the dashboard.

The facelift also extends the range of infotainment systems. The new Vito uses digital radio reception for all radio options. This means that crystal-clear and interference-free radio reception is possible even over long distances. The Audio 10 system also has a Bluetooth® interface with hands-free functionality or for streaming music.

The exterior is equally easy on the eye, with its updated radiator grille design available – with and without the chrome option – when ordered in conjunction with selected factory options. The options of the Vito facelift include Active Brake Assist, painted bumpers and a Driver Assist Package, ensuring that the vehicle attributes are even more attractive than its highly successful predecessor.

More than just a pretty face

But it’s more than just a good-looker. The latest Vito also features enhanced safety assistance systems, continuing the tradition of redefining safety standards in its segment. Just one is the new optional Active Brake Assist, which can detect the risk of a collision with a vehicle driving ahead. Initially, it gives a visual and acoustic warning. If the driver responds, the assistance system builds up brake pressure appropriate to the situation. If there is no response, the system actively assists with braking manoeuvres. In urban traffic, Active Brake Assist also reacts to stationary obstacles or pedestrians crossing its path.

All new Mercedes-Benz Vito facelift vehicles come standard with a five-year/100 000km ServiceCare BestBasic contract. The contract includes the labour to perform the service; the cost of all oils and lubricants for the engine, gearbox and axles; and the cost of air and fuel filters.

So, there you have it: the facelifted Vito in a nutshell. Here’s to another 1,8 million sales!