A VIP van perfect for the family

Large German vans have long been popular with VIPs in Thailand, and Mercedes-Benz now has a new 11-seater that comes with equipment level that you’d expect from a luxury car.

Although based on Mercedes-Benz’s commercial van platform, the Vito, which is made in Vitoria, Spain (hence the name Vito), has been transformed into a full-size MPV thanks to the large number of comfort and convenience features.

The Vito 115 CDI Executive 11-seat Extra Long, priced at Bt2.899 million, is the only version offered in Thailand. It is in fact long like the name implies, measuring more than 5.2 metres in length, while the wheelbase is 3,430mm, which allows another row of seats to be fitted. Apart from the improved looks compared to the older model, the new Vito also looks more like a Mercedes, although not much could be done to alter its boxy shape. But boxy also means that there is maximum space available.

Mercedes is presenting the Vito not only as a VIP ride, but also as a second or third family vehicle perfect for excursions. The rear-seat backrests are adjustable while the seat cushions can be slid forward and backward, and they can be turned around so that passengers face each other as well.

Many Vito buyers, however, might consider upgrading the seats, as well as removing the last row, since they don’t have enough people for all the 11 seats. You might wonder why Mercedes would then fit so many seats into the Vito if people are not going to use them. After all, no one buys a Vito and uses it as a commercial van anyway. Well that’s because the excise tax is much lower for 11-seaters and those with less seats. The difference is big enough to force automakers, whether it’s Mercedes, Volkswagen or even Hyundai, to offer only 11-seat versions in Thailand. After the purchase it’s up to the customer to decide whether they want to carry out customisations, mostly with the seats, which don’t really match up with those offered in passenger cars, as well as an entertainment system. Ceiling-mounted screens are the most common upgrade, and Mercedes dealers will be able to advise you on what are the possibilities.

Nevertheless, it looks like Mercedes is trying hard to shed the commercial image of the Vito. There are tonnes of extra luxury features, starting with powered sunroofs as well as powered sliding doors with an obstruction sensor. The doors can be operated via the remote unit, adding to the convenience. The two “captain” seats on the second row can be fully adjusted and come with adjustable armrests, but the seats are rather firm, rather than plush and cozy. Other gadgets include an audio system with Bluetooth, a multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, two sets of air-conditioners and leather upholstery.

The Vito is powered by a 2.1-litre diesel turbo that pumps out 150hp and 330Nm, allowing it to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 12 seconds, which is not too bad considering it’s huge. Fuel economy, meanwhile, is roughly 12km per litre, courtesy of the fuel-efficient common-rail engine. Transmission is a 5-speed automatic with manual mode, while the suspension is a front strut and rear semi-trailing arm type fitted with coil springs to improve ride comfort.

The Vito feels stable at high speeds and this is one of its selling points, but it is still a van and suffers from its sheer size. You don’t want to swing it around a sharp bend or change lanes too suddenly. Having said that, the Vito comes with several driver assistance systems that intervene, in case things get out of hand. They include ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), ASR (Acceleration Skid Control), BAS (Brake Assist) and EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution). There are also bi-Xenon headlights with a cornering light and cleaning system, LED daytime running lights, and adaptive brake lights to warn others on the road of an emergency braking situation. The headlights are automatic, as well as the windshield wipers.

The Vito also does well in crash tests, winning 5 stars from the ANCAP thanks to dual front airbags, thorax airbags and side airbags for the driver and front passenger. Mercedes is hoping that the Vito will be popular with not only VIP customers, but also with large families who can appreciate its roomy interior and high safety levels, all for under Bt3 million.

 

Vito CDI Executive 11-seat Extra Long

Engine: 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve common-rail diesel with turbocharger and intercooler

Displacement: 2,143cc

Bore and stroke: n/a

Compression ratio: 18:1

Max power: 150hp/3,800rpm

Max torque: 330Nm/1600-2.400rpm

Transmission: 5-speed automatic

0-100km/h: 12.2 secs

Top speed: 181km/h

Fuel economy: 8.8km/l (city); 13.9km/l (highway)

CO2 emission: 231g/km

Suspension (f/r): McPherson strut, stabiliser/semi-trailing arm

Steering: powered rack-and-pinion

Turning circle: 11.7 metres

Brakes (f/r): vented disc/disc

Dimensions (mm)

Length: 5,238

Width: 1,901

Height: 1,872

Wheelbase: 3,430

Track (f/r): n/a

Weight: n/a

Wheels: 17-in alloy

Tyres: 225/55R17

Fuel tank capacity: 75 litres

Price: Bt2.899 million

Distributor: Mercedes-Benz Thailand