Overall Rating |  |
Viano is a practical people-shifter but it's also a very expensive one. Quite stylish, it seats up to eight with lots of passenger/luggage layouts. It's more than an up-market minibus.
For
- Versatile seating layouts; roomier than many rivals
- Better to drive than the previous V Class
- Well put together, promising reliability
Against
- At 17 feet, the stretch version is too big
- High new prices even before options
- Petrol V6 models are thirsty
Road Test
Choice is everything with the roomy but costly Viano van-based MPV. Buyers can choose between two wheelbases, three different lengths and up to eight seats!
The seats are mounted on rails and are not that easy to remove, although the system allows you to create or reduce load space quite easily by sliding them along. The individual seats can be folded flat create tables. There is no shortage of user-friendly storage options, from seat back pockets through to under-seat drawers.
Engine options are two petrol V6s and a turbodiesel; all are strong performers. Most buyers will opt for the more efficient diesels, whilst the automatic gearboxes contribute to easy driving. Some drivers may be daunted by Viano's size the two longer versions are considerably larger than most big MPVs.
Safety is a high priority on this vehicle, and Mercedes raft of electronic aids and airbag systems should protect all occupants effectively.
Need To Know
Best Models: CDI 220
Worst Models: 3.2 V6
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
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