Judging by how popular vans are becoming again lately, then Mercedes’ decision to throw an AWD version of its successful Vito in the market must surprise no one.
The new Vito 4×4 is based on the auto RWD Vito, with Mercedes saying that “it is closely related to the all-wheel drives fitted in Mercedes-Benz passenger cars.”
The torque distribution between axles is 45:55 front/back and the power is controlled by the 4ETS Electronic Traction System combined with the usual ESP and ASR electronic nannies. The compact and lightweight construction of the all-wheel drive system combined with the lack of a conventional differential lock means that the Vito 4×4 weighs only 50kg more than the RWD version.
Vans have always been popular and it’s hard to overlook their practicality. The versatility offered by this kind of vehicles, combined with the discreet looks have lured many wealthy customers into seriously considering them when the time for buying their next ride comes, albeit theirs will be much different than your usual workhorse.
The most powerful version will be propelled by a 190hp 2.1-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel, combined with the 7G-Tronic Plus transmission. Maximum torque is set at 440Nm. Dubbed the Vito 119 BlueTEC 4×4, Mercedes claims 199km/h (123mph) top speed, 169g/km of CO2 emissions and a combined fuel consumption of 6.4lt/100km-36.7mpg UK (on the NEDC cycle), making it already compliant with the future Euro 6 emission regulations.
The new Vito 4×4 is available in Germany with the 190hp diesel engine at a net price of €36,120. Versions with 136hp and 160hp will become available in the near future but no word yet about when the Vito 4×4 will make it stateside. .
By Michael Karkafiris
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