2011 Mercedes-Benz Vito

All variants benefit from the full everyday practicality of the Mercedes-Benz Vito. With an overall height of just 1.90 m, every rear-wheel-drive Vito with a standard roof fits easily into standard garages, multi-storey car parks, underground car parks and car washes. The inherent advantages of the rear-wheel-drive concept ensure impressive agility even for the long Vito model variants.

Detailed overhaul of controls

The clear layout of the instrument panel and the clearly legible instruments have been retained – there are some things which simply defy improvement. The shift lever features new contours, however. Depending on the equipment variant, the knob now sports a high-gloss badge with chrome surround. In the upper control panel on the centre console, pushbuttons have replaced the previous rocker switches to facilitate intuitive operation while at the same time providing a more attractive appearance. The seat heating is now more finely adjustable, offering three levels as opposed to the previous two. The overhead control unit has been upgraded with two reading lamps in certain equipment variants. In the Mercedes Vito crewbus equipped with additional heat exchanger or rear air conditioning, corresponding new controls are also incorporated together with a display.

New practical features assist the driver

New items of equipment enhance the Mercedes-Benz Vito, offering scope for individualisation and assistance above all for the driver as he or she goes about their work. A backup camera is optionally available as a practical reversing aid in conjunction with the COMAND system, to help avoid the typical knocks and minor damage that may occur during manoeuvring. The camera’s lens is integrated in the licence plate panel on the tailgate. When reverse gear is engaged, the camera picture is displayed on the COMAND screen, with superimposed lines providing additional assistance for the driver.

A four-spoke multifunction steering wheel with new control buttons and matt chromed spoke trims, similar to the steering wheel of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, is now available as an option for the Vito.

Information for the driver, entertainment for the passengers

A new generation of radios is being introduced into all Mercedes-Benz Vito variants, guaranteeing the best in information and entertainment. A Bluetooth hands-free system and a CD/DVD drive come as standard throughout the range, as does an Aux connection for separate devices. The top-of-the-range audio systems feature the new generation of voice control which goes by the name of LINGUATRONIC, for radio, CD player/CD changer and navigation system. In addition to the Bluetooth hands-free system the new convenience telephony system is now also available, featuring a fixed telephone console, roof antenna and optimum voice quality.

Rear Seat Entertainment is now on board the Vito crewbus to keep the rear passengers duly entertained and informed. The Mercedes Vito covers the full spectrum of media wishes, from an entertaining film to an informative presentation for business associates. On request, it can be fitted at the factory with the corresponding wiring and mountings for devices in the roof liner. A fold-out monitor with DVD player and infrared headphones is available through Mercedes-Benz Accessories and can be fitted by authorised Mercedes-Benz workshops.

New fabrics, new colour concept for the interior

The Vito offers new seat covers in exclusive design for the driver and passengers. The seat surface and backrest are covered in refined “Lima” fabric, while the side bolsters are in black. Side base sections in artificial leather highlight the Mercedes-Benz Vito’s robust character. The seats are optionally available with anthracite artificial leather upholstery all over.

The new colour concept for the interior panelling and floor coverings enhances the Vito’s appearance. The entire cockpit is now finished in anthracite. The rear side panelling also comes as standard in the Mercedes-Benz Vito crewbus and as an option in the Vito Mixto.

Rear passengers in the Mercedes-Benz Vito crewbus can benefit from optional new interior lighting integrated in the handle recesses. Reading lights which can be operated individually are also installed here. These present an elegant appearance in modern clear-glass look with a chrome ring.

The Vito’s interior designers have paid close attention to every last detail, as revealed by apparently minor features such as the new inside handle for the sliding door, whose new position renders it more accessible and markedly reduces the level of effort required to open the door. The rails to which the rear seats are fitted in the Mercedes Vito crewbus have been provided with rubber lips. In addition to lending the floor area a more elegant appearance, these lips also facilitate removal of the seats and horizontal seat adjustment.

New: Vito CREW and SHUTTLE crewbus model variants

The Mercedes-Benz Vito CREW is a new crewbus model variant aimed at applications in which robustness is more important than an extensive scope of equipment, e.g. in the building trade. It is also designed to appeal to particularly price-conscious buyers. The Vito CREW replaces the previous Vito Basic crewbus. Mercedes-Benz has upgraded the appointments in comparison to the predecessor model by way of exclusive interior panelling and a front passenger airbag. The Mercedes-Benz Vito CREW comes exclusively with CDI diesel engines rated at 70 kW (95 hp) and 100 kW (136 hp). The options are limited to rear bench seats, air conditioning, additional heat exchanger, trailer coupling, radio and all-season tyres.

Another new model variant is the Vito SHUTTLE. This up-market crewbus is aimed at discerning customers. Key features include the Tempmatik controlled air conditioning system, comfort driver seat, a cockpit with Softouch surfacing, comfort bench seats, carpeting in the passenger compartment, bumpers in the vehicle’s exterior colour and light-alloy wheels.

Chassis and safety: specific configurations for panel van and crewbus

The rear-wheel drive has benefited the Mercedes-Benz Vito’s driving dynamics and handling ever since the current model series was first introduced. The new Vito additionally features a completely new chassis which has been configured specifically with the transport of passengers and goods in mind. This new chassis raises the benchmark for ride comfort and driving safety to a new level. The Mercedes Vito continues to lead the way, offering an unparalleled high standard of safety and an unmatched scope of assistance systems as part of the standard equipment.

Vans with high-tech chassis featuring totally new tuning

While the Vito’s front axle continues to be based on independent wheel suspension with spring struts, Mercedes-Benz has carried out a complete redesign of the axle’s finer points of detail. The host of new elements cover suspension springs and spring retainers, supporting bearings and suspension strut towers, transverse links including bearings, anti-roll bar and bearings. The modified axle setting ensures improved response. The steering additionally employs a new, improved characteristic.

A similar situation applies to the driven rear axle. Here too, the sophisticated basic design involving independent wheel suspension on semi-trailing arms has been retained, but the development engineers have completely reconfigured the springs, auxiliary springs and shock absorbers and designed new bearings for the shock absorbers. The new bearings for the control arms have been designed with a special emphasis on comfort, with separated functions for longitudinal and lateral forces on the front axle. The anti-roll bar and its bearings are also new developments.

In keeping with the different service conditions and requirements for the vehicles, the respective models feature different rear axle configurations: in the case of the Mercedes-Benz Vito panel van and the Mixto the focus is on a particularly robust design to cope with the highest possible loads, while the suspension and damping on the Vito crewbus are designed to afford passengers maximum comfort.

Exceptionally stable, user-friendly and safe handling

These developments provide for extremely precise, predictable and safe handling accompanied by outstanding comfort, running characteristics and noise levels across all Mercedes-Benz Vito variants. The Vito range offers the very highest standards of ride comfort, driving enjoyment and driving safety. Such all-round quality can only be topped by the air suspension including automatic level control on the rear axle, which is available ex-factory.

Marked increase in payload, according to model variant

Whether you run a craftman’s firm , a courier service or any other kind of business, you’ll have little in the way of worries when it comes to loading the Mercedes-Benz Vito. The development engineers have raised the permissible gross vehicle weight, accompanied by a noticeable increase in the payload. The standard gross permissible vehicle weight is now 2.80 t (previously 2.77 t), while all models of the new generation are also optionally available as a 3.05 t variant. According to model variant, the increase in payload may amount to as much as 100 kg. The Mercedes-Benz Vito with a permissible gross vehicle weight of 3.2 t remains top of the range in terms of payload. A variant with a permissible gross vehicle weight of 2.5 t is available for export. Comfort and safety come in an attractive guise for commercial operations, too: the Vito is now optionally available with new five-spoke 17-inch light-alloy wheels fitted with 225/55 R 17 tyres.

Powerful brakes and a host of invisible safety features

The Mercedes-Benz Vito comes with an unparalleled range of safety and assistance systems as standard. All models feature a brake system with powerful and robust disc brakes on all wheels, electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and adaptive brake lights which display an emergency braking signal when the brakes are fully applied.

Numerous invisible safety features are also on board. The ESP Electronic Stability Programme with anti-lock braking system (ABS), acceleration skid control (ASR) and brake assist (BAS) is obligatory for all Vito models. Vehicles which are factory-fitted with a trailer coupling come with trailer stabilisation (also known as trailer stability assist -“TSA”-) as standard. Start-off Assist (AAS), an automatic tyre pressure monitoring system, the PARKTRONIC parking and manoeuvring assistant and a reversing camera are optionally available to supplement the Mercedes-Benz Vito’s comprehensive range of comfort and safety features.

Safety equipment to the very highest standard

In the event of an accident, the Mercedes-Benz Vito is also provided with the highest standard of safety equipment to limit the consequences. The driver’s and front passenger’s seats are provided with height-adjustable three-point seat belts, belt tensioners, belt force limiters, seat belt reminders and two-way head restraints. Driver and front passenger airbags also feature as standard (panel van: driver airbag). Thorax sidebags and windowbags are optionally available. All passenger seats at the rear of the Vito crewbus are fitted with integrated three-point seat belts and two-way head restraints. A label on the side bolsters in the Mercedes Vito crewbus and Vito Mixto now indicates the seats which are provided with standardised anchor points for child seats – a minor but particularly important measure when children are to be transported in child seats in taxis or in private use on board the Vito, for example.

Engine and drive system: unmatched economy and environmental friendliness

Economical, environmentally friendly, high-performance and user-friendly for the driver – modern-day drive technology for professional users. This is the perfect combination offered by the new generation of diesel engines in the Mercedes-Benz Vito. Hundreds of thousands of these engines have already proven their worth in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van and in diverse Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. The new Vito sets the benchmark in economy and environmental friendliness. All engines comply with the Euro 5 emissions standard. Drastically reduced fuel consumption also lowers CO2 emissions to a record level. Substantial further reductions in fuel consumption and emissions are possible with the optional BlueEFFICIENCY package (standard for the Mercedes-Benz Vito crewbus licensed as a passenger car). This innovative package is kind on both the environment and the company budget, and is not to be found in any other van.

All diesel engines are equipped with an oxidation catalytic converter, a particulate filter and cooled exhaust gas recirculation. The new ECO Gear manual transmission offers a broad gear ratio spread for optimum performance and enables low fuel consumption and emission levels. The Vito is the only model in its class to feature a six-speed transmission for all four-cylinder drive variants as standard. The overall result is impressive response and acceleration combined with outstanding economy, environmental friendliness and smooth running. Top of the range is the V6 in the Mercedes-Benz Vito 122 CDI, which combines smooth running with impressive output and high tractive power to meet the very highest requirements. The latest version of this engine is also more powerful, more economical and more environmentally friendly. The new engine ratings are accompanied by corresponding changes to the numerical codes in the Vito model designations.

Four-cylinder CDI: robust, economical, clean, powerful and smooth-running

At the core of the new generation of engines is the four-cylinder in-line unit which has the internal code OM 651. It is available in three power variants for the Mercedes-Benz Vito:

• Vito 110 CDI (figures differ according to variant)
  • Power output: 70 kW (95 hp) at 3800 rpm
  • Max torque: 250 Nm at 1200-2400 rpm
  • Fuel consumption in acc. with NEDC: 7.7 l/100 km (BlueEFFICIENCY: 7.4 l/100 km)
  • CO2 emissions: 203 g/km (BlueEFFICIENCY: 195 g/km)
  • Top speed: 158 km/h
  • Acceleration
    • 0-100 km/h: 18.1 s
    • 60-100 km/h in fifth gear: 14.0 s
    • 80-120 km/h in sixth gear: 20.5 s
• Vito 113 CDI (figures differ according to variant)
  • Power output: 100 kW (136 hp) at 3800 rpm
  • Max torque: 310 Nm at 1400-2600 rpm
  • Fuel consumption in acc. with NEDC: 7.4 l/100 km (BlueEFFICIENCY: 6.9 l/100 km)
  • CO2 emissions: 195 g/km (BlueEFFICIENCY: 182 g/km)
  • Top speed: 176 km/h
  • Acceleration
    • 0-100 km/h: 13.4 s
    • 60-100 km/h in fifth gear: 12.5 s
    • 80-120 km/h in sixth gear: 18.2 s
• Vito 116 CDI (figures differ according to variant)
  • Power output: 120 kW (163 hp) at 3800 rpm
  • Max torque: 360 Nm at 1600-2400 rpm
  • Fuel consumption in acc. with NEDC: 7.4 l/100 km (BlueEFFICIENCY: 6.9 l/100 km)
  • CO2 emissions: 195 g/km (BlueEFFICIENCY: 182 g/km)
  • Top speed: 191 km/h
  • Acceleration
    • 0-100 km/h: 11.5 s
    • 60-100 km/h in fifth gear: 10.0 s
    • 80-120 km/h in sixth gear: 14.6 s

This represents an overall rise in power output and torque in comparison to the predecessor models, with major increases in some instances. At the same time, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced substantially – by up to 15 percent, depending on the engine variant. Apart from attaining surprisingly good values in absolute terms for its size and weight, the Mercedes-Benz Vito clearly leads its class in terms of fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

High tractive power, durable chain-type camshaft drive

State-of-the-art engine technology provides the basis for the Vito’s exceptionally low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The high torque of the long-stroke engine with 83 mm bore and a stroke of 99 mm provides for unusually high tractive power. The two overhead camshafts actuate a total of 16 inlet and exhaust valves via cam followers with hydraulic valve clearance compensation.

The camshafts are driven via a combination of gearwheels and a short chain, providing the robust basis for a virtually endless service life. This is especially advantageous in tough commercial use involving high mileage and high levels of stress and strain.

Fuel injection takes place by means of a common rail system. Particularly durable solenoid valves and seven-hole injection nozzles provide for extremely precise fuel injection with up to five injections per combustion cycle. The benefits of this technology include a gentle build-up of pressure and a smooth-running engine. The maximum injection pressure stands at an impressive 1800 bar.

Charging is carried out in both power variants by a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry which combines high efficiency with swift response to movements of the accelerator pedal. Maximum torque is available right from very low engine speeds and over a broad rev range – another key benefit in commercial operations requiring high tractive power. Thanks to its combination of a rated engine speed of 3800 rpm and astounding elasticity, the four-cylinder engine has an unusually broad useful operating range between around 1000 and 4000 revs. This is unmatched by any other diesel engine in this class of vehicle.

Balancer shafts for all variants ensure unparalleled smooth running

Drivers of vans from Mercedes-Benz are not required to compromise on comfort. Common rail injection, the low-vibration forged crankshaft running on five bearings and the rear camshaft drive provide the foundation for the engine’s surprisingly smooth running. All four-cylinder engines also benefit from Lanchester balancing, with two counter-rotating shafts running under the crankcase, driven by spur gears. Mercedes-Benz is the only manufacturer in this vehicle class to deploy balancer shafts in all four-cylinder engines of its vans – commercial vehicles from Mercedes-Benz embody the same pioneering quality for which the brand’s passenger cars are renowned.

Unique to Mercedes-Benz: particularly economical demand-responsive auxiliary units

The development engineers have also devoted great attention to optimising the auxiliary units. The oil pump is a controlled vane-type pump featuring electrical actuation, for example. It controls its delivery rate automatically according to the given requirements, as does the controlled fuel pump. This reduces the power output, thereby lowering fuel consumption. The coolant pump also adjusts automatically to the given requirements, further helping to reduce fuel consumption. The same goes for battery management, with the alternator charging only when necessary.

Tuned to perfection: the ECO Gear six-speed manual transmission

The new six-speed ECO Gear manual transmission comes as standard for all Mercedes Vito models equipped with a four-cylinder diesel engine. This transmission is a substantial contributory factor to the reduced fuel consumption and further enhanced dynamic performance of the Vito CDI. Its defining feature is a particularly broad gear ratio spread, with a short first gear (i=5.076) and a long sixth gear (i=0.675) designed to keep the engine speed low.

This configuration accords due consideration both to typical situations such as hill starts with full payload and loaded trailer and to long journeys on the motorway. Overall, the engine speed has been reduced substantially in the interests of lower fuel consumption and emissions. Another consequence of this strategy is a noticeable improvement in ride comfort.

The particularly user-friendly and well-proven five-speed automatic transmission is alternatively available for the Mercedes-Benz Vito. It comes as standard for the Vito 122 CDI and Vito 126.

V6 CDI: an impressive feat of engineering goes one better

The V6 engine in the Mercedes-Benz Vito 122 CDI is an accomplished feat of engineering and a pinnacle of engine design from Mercedes-Benz. The only six-cylinder engine to be deployed in a van attains impressive performance data for a diesel in this class, providing the basis for a special driving experience. The engine is based on an aluminium crankcase with a V angle of 72 degrees. Thanks to offset connecting rod journals, the engine runs more smoothly than any other diesel in its class. The technical highlights include a total of four chain-driven overhead camshafts, common rail injection with piezo injectors and eight injection holes per injector for ultra-fine atomisation of the fuel.

The latest version of the engine in the Vito 122 CDI offers ten percent more power, at 165 kW (224 hp) and an unchanged highly impressive level of torque, at 440 Nm. It complies with the Euro 5 emissions standard. At the same time, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have fallen noticeably, by around five percent, and are surprisingly low in relation to the performance capabilities of the Mercedes Vito 122 CDI. Other enhancements of this latest version of the V6 include a maximum injection pressure of 1600 bar. Key data:

Vito 122 CDI (figures differ according to variant)

Power output: 165 kW (224 hp) at 3800 rpm

Max. torque: 440 Nm at 1400-2800 rpm

Fuel consumption in acc. with NEDC: 8.6 l/100 km (BlueEFFICIENCY: 8.4 l/100 km)

CO2 emissions: 226 g/km (BlueEFFICIENCY: 221 g/km)

Top speed: 201 km/h

Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 9.1 s

Its impressive performance data, its unmatched smooth running and its impressively low fuel consumption and emission levels make the new generation of the Vito 122 CDI a unique contender in its class which meets the very highest standards. The engine comes exclusively with a well-proven and particularly user-friendly automatic transmission.

Vito 126: in a class of its own

The Mercedes-Benz Vito 126 with its V6 petrol engine is also in a class of its own. The power delivery and smooth running of this six-cylinder engine are unmatched in any other van. The latest version of the Vito 126 complies with the Euro 5 emissions standard. This engine also employs an automatic transmission. Key data:

• Vito CDI 126.5 (figures differ according to variant)
  • Power output: 190 kW (258 hp) at 5900 rpm
  • Max. torque: 340 Nm at 2500-4000 rpm
  • Fuel consumption in acc. with NEDC: 11.9 l/100 km

BlueEFFICIENCY: clean and economical like no other

First announced by reference to a study at the IAA Commercial Vehicles fair in 2008, the vision of BlueEFFICIENCY technology has now become reality, reducing fuel consumption and emissions in the Mercedes-Benz Vito. It is available as an option for the Vito panel van and comes as standard in the Vito crewbus licensed as a passenger car. A label below the A-pillar confirms that BlueEFFICIENCY is on board. The scope of the package is unique in the vans segment: ECO start/stop function (not for automatic transmissions), battery management, tyres optimised for minimum rolling resistance, ECO power steering pump, shift point indicator (not for automatic transmissions), a controlled fuel pump and internal engine measures demonstrate the cutting-edge technology involved.

The BlueEFFICIENCY package combines sustainability and economy in exemplary fashion. It further reduces the Mercedes Vito’s traditionally low fuel consumption by an additional 0.2-0.3 litres per 100 km (6.75 g of CO2 per km) in the new generation, according to model and engine variant.

Long maintenance intervals also contribute to the Vito’s sustainability and economy. The ASSYST service computer which comes as standard calculates oil-change intervals on a flexible basis according to the actual use of the vehicle. The average interval across all engines stands at 30,000 km or two years. Higher mileages are also possible between oil changes, depending on the intensity of use and the individual driving style.

Further enhanced Mercedes-Benz Vito 4×4 all-wheel drive

The Vito 4×4 with permanent all-wheel drive and variable power distribution by means of the 4ETS traction system also benefits from numerous innovations. A new 3-point bearing for the front-axle transmission and an increased oil volume reduce vibration and wear on the all-wheel drive. Helical gearing for the differential provides for smoother running. As previously, the Mercedes-Benz Vito 4×4 is available exclusively in conjunction with the two higher power variants of the four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission (Vito 113 CDI/116 CDI 4×4). The Mercedes-Benz Vito 4×4 now also complies with the Euro 5/III emissions standard.

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