New Germans
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Last week we saw two Teutonic favourites receive major updates ahead of the IAA Show. CM heads to Germany to bring you the latest news.
Mercedes-Benz Vito
MERCEDES-BENZ' latest Vito might not look radically different, but behind the new headlamps, grille and front bumper are some significant improvements. These include the adoption of the all-new Euro-5 driveline first seen in the Sprinter, comprising the 0M651 2.1-litre engine and ECO six-speed wide-ratio gearbox.
The range-topper in most markets, including ours, is a 221hp V6 diesel. Mercedes claims up to 15% improvements in fuel economy and CO2 emissions. CO2 figures are further reduced by the optional BlueEFFICIENCY package, which includes engine stop/start, gear shift indicator, battery management, and economy optimised engine components and tyres lhe new front bumper means all models are 15inm longer than previously, while a 30kg increase in kerbweight is countered by a similar rise in GVWs.The highest GVW is now 3200kg. with a quoted payload of 1,330kg.
Interior changes are not easy to spot, but controls and materials have improved while standard features include a new radio/CD player with Bluetooth, multi-function steering wheel, trip computer and cruise control. The existing parking brake is retained, but Start-off Assist (hill hold) is now a highly recommended £100 option on the manual, which really needs it.
Many suspension and steering components have been changed, including specific spring ratings according to model. Driving a number of versions around the port and local highways of Hamburg, the changes certainly appear to have resulted in a general smoothing of the driving experience, both in terms of NVH levels and driveline flexibility. The new range takes immediate effect, with UK prices starting at £16,750.
Diesel engine line-up
Engine Power/torque CO2
110 CEI 94hp/250Nrn 203 951g/km 113 CD1 134hp/310Nm 195 (182')g/km 116 CD 161 hp/360Nm 195 (1821g/km 122 CD] 221hp/440Nm 226 (221 lg/krn
*with optiona1BlueEFFICIENCY package
• CM 's coverage of IAA begins in our 23 September issue, with all the news on www.roadtransport.com/lianover2010 from 21 September.