Mercedes facelifts Viano people carrier
22.09.2010 - Martin Gurdon
(1)
Mercedes has given its big Viano people carrier a wide-ranging facelift, with a re-styled nose, new engines plus an improved chassis and suspension.
The Viano is sold as a rival to big, van-based people carriers like the Volkswagen Transporter, Hyundai i800 and Peugeot Expert Teepee.
Based on the Vito panel van, which has also been upgraded, the Viano gets a redesigned grille, front lamp clusters and re-profiled wings.
Other changes include improvements to its structure and suspension, designed to improve the car's handling and ride.
Both four- and six-cylinder diesel versions now have stop & start systems plus low rolling resistance tyres to improve economy and lower emissions. The four-cylinder Viano is now offered with a newly designed, six-speed manual gearbox, intended to further improve economy. Some versions are now claimed to be 15 per cent cleaner and more fuel efficient than before.
Inside, trim materials have been upgraded and controls made simpler to use with a re-positioned gear lever, re-sited centre console buttons, and a four-spoke steering wheel with built in control buttons and ambient lighting also features.
British sales begin in October. Prices have yet to be announced.
