Mercedes Benz VITO 111CDI LWB Extra Long Review

Overall Rating

now a good size with the extra long wheelbase
Comfortable for long distances
Plenty of power
Good looks

Build quality
Dealer backup
expensive accessories/Servicing

The new model Mercedes-Benz Vito is now avialable in 3 body lengths and the option of a high roof on the Long wheel bases. I bought this van because the Sprinters we have have been such excellent vans. I have the 111CDI LWB Extra Long wheel base model which seems more than capable of hauling loads up to it's maximum gross weight with no drama. Like its big brother, the Sprinter, they can really fly. But if I were to choose again, I would have the 115cdi for that little bit of extra power on the hills. The seats, while very comfortable, are a little cramped when the full length bulkhead is installed restricting the recline angle. The single passenger seat fitted to this particular van is probably not worth the money or inconvenience of taking only one passenger and they complain of little knee room. Merc CD is standard, as is twin sliding doors and a 6 speed manual gearbox.
Most of my complaints have been about the build quality and Mercedes dealers reluctance to help. This particular van was spec'd to have a single rear door but when it was delivered had twin doors - a very long re-order time ensued. Alarm problems, electric window faults and suspension knocking have all been ongoing problems. Mercedes parts availability is terrible for this model at the moment and no one at the dealerships seems to be very knowledgable on the Vito. All in all, it is a good van, if a little pricey. Lets see how it proves long term!

Members' Comments onDB4GT's Review

• Tizzer on 5th Jul 2007

  I have just bought a 111 CDI Xtra long version. Have owned it for 5 days and up to this point very pleased with it (very early days). However, disaster has just struck!....I picked up two passengers from the airport last night, jumped on the motorway and then BANG!!! I turned round to my right and the sealed window on the sliding door had exploded and shattered! No one had taken a pot shot at me and (as far as I can tell) no loose stones had flew up and hit the window! I'm convinced this was a manufacturers problem and the window exploded of its own accord. Mercedes at first wouldn't admit liability until I made a strong complaint and eventually they repaired the window FOC. Has any one else had the same experience as I did as Mercedes are saying that this is the first case to their knowledge?