Mercedes-Benz Vito
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a commercial van that doesn’t compromise on comfort or style? The Mercedes-Benz Vito might be exactly what your business needs. This premium medium-sized van successfully bridges the gap between practical commercial vehicle and refined passenger car experience. It’s the van for businesses and drivers who want German engineering excellence wrapped in a package that’s both functional and sophisticated.

From first glance, the Vito commands respect on the road. Its bold grille and clean lines give it a professional presence that rivals like the Ford Transit Custom or Volkswagen Crafter simply can’t match. But the real impression comes when you climb into the cab. The interior feels like it belongs in a luxury SUV rather than a commercial vehicle, with high quality materials and intuitive controls throughout. Everything from the dashboard layout to the seat comfort shows Mercedes-Benz’s attention to detail.

Driving the Vito is a surprisingly refined experience for a commercial vehicle. The diesel engines deliver smooth power delivery while remaining relatively quiet, making long delivery runs or passenger transport duties feel effortless. It handles predictably and rides comfortably, giving you confidence whether you’re navigating tight city streets or cruising on the motorway. While it commands a premium price over some competitors, you’re investing in that unmistakable Mercedes-Benz quality and the professional image it projects for your business.

What's the Mercedes-Benz Vito Like to Drive?

The Mercedes-Benz Vito focuses on delivering smooth, dependable power rather than outright performance thrills. The range of diesel engines available are all tuned for efficiency and torque delivery. The entry-level 1.7-litre CDI with around 116 horsepower provides adequate power for most commercial duties and feels responsive around town. For heavier loads or regular motorway work, the 2.0-litre CDI variants offer stronger pulling power, making fully loaded acceleration feel more effortless.

Where the Vito really impresses is in its car-like driving dynamics. The steering is well weighted and accurate, making manoeuvring in tight loading bays surprisingly easy for such a large van. The suspension setup strikes an excellent balance between load carrying capability and ride comfort. Even when empty, it doesn’t bounce or feel harsh like many commercial vehicles. The mild hybrid variants add extra smoothness and slightly improved fuel economy. Road and wind noise are well controlled, creating a refined driving environment that reduces fatigue on longer journeys.

Inside the Mercedes-Benz Vito: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Vito and you immediately notice the difference between this and most commercial vehicles. The dashboard design is modern and sophisticated, featuring Mercedes-Benz’s latest infotainment system with a crisp touchscreen display. The materials used throughout feel premium and durable, with soft-touch surfaces on key contact points. Controls operate with typical Mercedes precision, from the indicator stalks to the climate control system. Everything feels built to withstand years of commercial use while maintaining that premium feel.

The front seats are genuinely comfortable, even on extended driving shifts. There’s excellent adjustment range to help drivers of all sizes find their ideal position. A standout feature is how quiet and refined the cabin feels. Mercedes has invested heavily in sound deadening, which pays dividends when you’re spending hours behind the wheel. Standard equipment includes smartphone integration, cruise control, and air conditioning. Higher specification models add features like heated seats, automatic headlights, and premium audio systems that wouldn’t feel out of place in a luxury saloon.

The Mercedes-Benz Vito succeeds in delivering a genuinely premium commercial vehicle experience that justifies its higher price point. It combines excellent build quality with car-like refinement in a way that few rivals can match. The interior quality and driving refinement are genuinely impressive, making it a pleasure to use daily rather than just a necessary business tool.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Mercedes-Benz Vito Expensive to Run?

As a premium commercial vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz Vito comes with running costs that reflect its upmarket positioning, though they remain competitive for businesses prioritising quality. The efficient diesel engines are the highlight here, with real-world fuel economy typically ranging from the mid-30s to low-40s MPG depending on load and driving conditions. This translates to reasonable fuel bills for a vehicle of this size and capability.

The main consideration is the higher initial purchase price compared to mainstream alternatives. The Vito commands a premium over rivals, but this reflects the superior build quality, advanced technology, and strong resale values that Mercedes commercial vehicles typically maintain. Servicing costs are in line with other premium brands, though parts can be more expensive than mainstream competitors. However, the reliability record is generally strong, and van finance options are available to spread the initial cost. For businesses wanting to project a professional image while maintaining long-term value, the Vito’s total cost of ownership becomes more compelling.

Mercedes-Benz Vito Practicality & Boot Space

For a medium-sized commercial vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz Vito offers excellent practical versatility. The cargo area provides generous space with a low loading height that makes handling heavy items much easier. Various body lengths are available, allowing you to choose the configuration that best suits your business needs. The wide rear doors and optional sliding side doors provide excellent access to the load area. Multiple load securing points and optional interior lighting help with professional cargo management.

Where the Vito particularly excels is in its flexibility. The Crew Van version combines cargo space with passenger seating, making it ideal for trades that need to carry both tools and workers. The Tourer variants transform it into a comfortable people carrier for executive transport or large family use. For businesses requiring a vehicle that can handle diverse duties, the Vito offers more versatility than many used Mercedes-Benz cars. Its refined nature means it’s equally at home making client visits as it is handling delivery duties, giving it broader appeal than more utilitarian alternatives.

The Mercedes-Benz Vito stands out in the competitive medium van market by offering genuine premium quality and refinement. It successfully combines Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for engineering excellence with the practical requirements of modern commercial use. While it may not be the cheapest option in its class, it excels in areas that matter for professional use, comfort, build quality, and maintaining a sophisticated business image.

You choose the Vito when you want a commercial vehicle that doesn’t feel like a compromise. Its refined driving experience, high quality interior, and versatile configurations make every working day more pleasant. It’s perfectly suited for businesses that value their professional image while needing serious commercial capability. If you’re looking for a medium van that offers genuine premium quality with flexible finance options, the Mercedes-Benz Vito should be at the top of your consideration list.