Mercedes-Benz Vito Review 2024

A replacement for the Mercedes-Benz Vito is due in 2026 based on the German firm’s new mid-size van architecture, but to keep it competitive until the new model arrives the model has been given a facelift to keep it in contention against more modern opposition. But is it good enough to still compete? Read out full Mercedes-Benz Vito review to find out.

Introduced in May 2024, the facelifted Vito is offered in two variants – a 2.0-litre diesel and a fully electric model which will be subject to separate review on Honest John Vans shortly.

The diesel uses the tried and tested OM624 engine – a 2.0-litre common rail unit offered in five power outputs 102PS, 136PS, 163PS, 190PS and 237PS. In the Vito it’s available in up to In addition, a new mild-hybrid petrol engine will be available from late 2024.

There’s a choice of six-speed manual or a new nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, all with rear-wheel-drive.

The Vito is offered in three lengths with maximum gross vehicle weights ranging from 2500kg to 3200kg depending on configuration, with the most capable model rated to carry a payload of up to 1350kg. Maximum cargo volumes range from 5.5 cubic metres to 6.6 cubic metres.

As well as the panel van there is also a crew cab variant and an eight-seat Tourer.

The updated design gives the Vito a more distinctive look with a new grille and full LED headlights, abnd a new bumper design, along with new LED tail lamps.

There are significant changes inside, too. A new wide- screen cockpit with two 12.3-inch displays and a new instrument cluster being the key elements, as well as a new steering wheel with hands-off detection, and a new centre console that can be equipped with a wireless smartphone charger. There’s also a new generation of Mercedes’s MBUX infotainment and connectivity system.

Two trim levels are offered – the business-like PRO and the plusher SELECT – both of which come with a suite of driver assistance systems including Active Brake Assist, ATTENTION Assist, Headlight Assist including rain sensor, DISTRONIC Active Distance Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist and a parking package as standard.

SELECT models get body-coloured bumpers and a plusher trim, a more advanced version of MBUX, keyless entry and adaptive MULTIBEAM LED headlights with High-beam Assist, plus a 360-degree camera and keyless entry.

There are three different length of Mercedes-Benz Vito - 4895mm, 5140mm and 5370mm – in one sun 2.0m roof height that will fit in most garages and multi-storey car parks.

Load volumes range from 5.5 cubic metres to 6.6 cubic metres, with maximum permitted gross vehicle weights of between 2500kg and 3200kg. There are twin sliding side doors offered as standard, while access to the rear is via a tailgate or the more traditional split barn doors.

The sides of the load area are protected up to half height with plywood, but this can be extended to roof height if buyers require it. Another practical optional extra is a non-slip floor coating and a grid for the floor with lashing eyes spaced at 25mm. There is also an optional LED lighting strip for illuminating the load area.

Alongside the panel van, Mercedes-Benz offers a crew cab version and an eight-seater, ideal for the taxi and private hire market.

The cabin feels much more advanced than the outgoing model, both in terms of its digital features and also its quality, though there are hints of its age starting to show. Some of the switchgear, for example, can trace its roots back to the W211 E-Class saloon, introduced over 20 years ago, and it also uses the exterior door handles found on Mercedes passenger cars of two generations back, which underscores the age of the van’s architecture. The previous model was launched in 2015 and was, itself, an evolution of the 2005 model, so there are some fundamental elements of the Mercedes-Benz Vito’s architecture that show its age.  

It's ergonomically well laid-out, though, and the latest MBUX infotainment set-up is excellent, while the seats are extremely comfortable and the driving position both flexible and commanding.

Overall, a good effort that keeps the Mercedes-Benz Vito in contention, but it is starting to feel its age against come compelling an much more modern competition such as the Ford Transit Custom and Vauxhall Vivaro, both of which are far newer vehicles.

Despite being based on aged architecture, the Vito has good all-round visibility. It’s great to drive, too, with well-weighted steering and good ride quality – it’s not as sharp or as smooth as the Ford Transit Custom, but there isn’t a large gulf between the two and it remains composed and comfortable both laden and unladen.

The reversing camera is among the best-in-class, with a better field of vision and greater accuracy when parking and manoeuvring than rival systems – ideal if you need to squeeze it into a tight driveway or garage.

The 2.0-litre diesel engine is a flexible unit – it feels a bit underpowered in its entry level 102PS format, but the 136PS model is flexible enough if a little harsh under acceleration. The three more powerful options are impressively lively.

The six-speed manual models are smooth and responsive and the shift is both light and positive, but it’s the 9G-GTRONIC that’s the star of the range from behind the wheel – the transmission is so quick that changes are barely detectable and the software ensures that the Mercedes-Benz Vito remains at the peak of its torque curve at all times. It’s genuinely fun to drive.

The only real area where it shows its age is in some of the switchgear, which feels clunky and old-fashioned – or if you prefer, chunky and functional. Some van users will prefer the simplicity and mechanical feel of it to the softer, more digital controls in more modern vans.

Overall, then, the facelifted Mercedes-Benz Vito remains a competitive choice. It holds its value well, looks smart and the premium branding will project a strong image of your business. It’s a good van.

But more modern rivals are better dynamically and more sophisticated. If that doesn’t bother you, then the Mercedes-Benz Vito is a good choice for the small business user who places a strong value on image – it’s a bit of a looker and a well-made van.