The Mercedes-Benz Viano is a mid-sized light commercial vehicle manufactured and marketed by the German car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz from 2003 to 2014.
History of the Mercedes-Benz Viano
Mercedes-Benz Viano (2003–2010)
The Viano had its origins in the Vito model released by Mercedes Benz. While the Vito was already known for its high utility for groups of six or more people, the Viano was even more comfortable and had many different features that enhanced the experience. The Viano was available in three body sizes, Compact, Long, or Extra Long. The van could carry up to 9 people, including the driver and the seat combination could differ depending on the car’s purpose. Some of them were internally modified for increased luxury. The van was equipped with air-conditioning, remote-control central locking, electric front windows, and tinted glass. The Ambient trim level added a 12-volt refrigerator and leather upholstery, rear-air suspension with a self-leveling feature, and seatbacks that could be folded to form a table. The Viano was available with 3 diesel engine options, a 2.0L with 116 hp, and a 2.2L with 50 hp, both mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic gearbox. The fastest version came with a 3.0L engine developing 204 hp, rocketing the van to 62 mph in 9.7 seconds, compared to the smaller engines that were a bit slow. Most of the Vianos were bought by companies for VIP duties, however, it was also excellent for large families during long trips due to the high level of comfort offered.
Mercedes-Benz Viano (2010–2014)
Mercedes-Benz upgraded the Viano in 2010 and improved its engine lineup to the Euro 5a norm, which was introduced in January 2011. The European regulations forced the carmakers to improve their cars. Along with the engines, there were other several measures that had to be adopted by the manufacturers, such as new safety features and recycled materials used to build new vehicles. Even though Viano was based on an LCV, it had to fit into the passenger-cars emission standards. Along with the mandatory modifications, the carmaker reshaped some body parts. Under the hood, Mercedes-Benz installed a wide range of diesel engines and a V6 gasoline. Despite having the 7G-Tronic gearbox already developed, the carmaker insisted on using the older 5-speed automatic, known for its reliability.
Price
In 2014, Mercedes-Benz retailed the Mercedes-Benz Viano with a starting original MSRP of $28,450 for the base model, rising to $31,850 for the top-of-the-line variant.
Features of the Mercedes-Benz Viano
Exterior Features
While the daytime running lights started to be mandatory, Mercedes-Benz chose to use LEDs for them. It also introduced an option for bi-xenon headlamps, which were not mandatory but looked better on a premium MPV. Its reshaped bumper featured a center grille and two side-scoops, unlike the single grille system used for the non-facelifted version. In the rear, the taillights were shorter, and the upper side of the D-pillars was black.
Interior Features
Inside, Mercedes-Benz offered new features for the Viano, including a reversing camera, which displayed the image on the Command infotainment unit. There were some additional reading lamps on the ceiling for the rear passengers.
Specs and Performance of the Mercedes-Benz Viano
Engine:
- 2.1L OM646 980 L4 Turbo Diesel (China)
- 2.1L OM646 DE22 LA R L4 Diesel
- 2.1L OM651 DE22 L4 Diesel
- 3.0L OM642 V6 Diesel
- 2.5L M272 924 V6 Diesel (China)
- 3.0L M272 939 V6 Diesel (China)
- 3.2L M112 E32 V6 Petrol (2010–)
- 3.5L M272 E35 V6 Petrol
- 3.7L M112 E37 V6 Petrol
- 4.3L Brabus V6 Petrol
- 6.0L M113 Brabus V8 Petrol
The Mercedes-Benz Viano's 3.5L engine delivers 258 hp (190 kW) at 5,900 rpm and 229 ft-lb (310 Nm) of torque at 1,400–2,400 rpm. Mercedes-Benz marketed the Viano as a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicle, and it was available with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Mercedes-Benz Viano accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 kph) in 8.7 seconds, with a top speed of 135 mph (217 kph). Dimension-wise, the Mercedes-Benz Viano measures 4,748–5,223 mm (186.9–205.6 in) long, 1,906 mm (75.0 in) wide, and 1,875 mm (73.8 in) high. Its wheelbase measures 3,200 mm (126.0 in) and has a curb weight of 4,497–4,707 lbs (2,040–2,135 kg).
Release Date
The Mercedes-Benz Viano was released in 2003. It was in production until 2014 and the manufacturer replaced the model with a more modern V-Class.