Reviews - Mercedes

Overall Rating

The Vito Dualiner is classed as a commercial van but with seats and lots of room it's almost a minibus and perfect for moving large families and group holidays. With the Mercedes styling and engineering this is a serious contender.

• More than just a van
• Benefits of van and minibus
• Economical

• Maybe too plush to be a commercial
• Slippery floor in rear when wet

The Vito Dualiner is in-between a van with the added advantage of being part mpv. Six seats in two rows of three and additional bench seats plus a large luggage area at the back. There is a large side window behind the drivers seat for passenger views of the outside world, then the second half and rear has no windows and looks like a panel van which is quite bizarre. The floor is plastic and got slippy in the wet weather. The cab is comfortable with a host of equipment; satellite navigation, CD stereo and air conditioning. Mercedes have thought of everything and the rear seats recline, so perfect for long distances if a bit of eye shut is required. The dashboard is typical Mercedes style and the steering wheel is upright. It certainly feels more upmarket than the usual commercial vehicle. Six speed, 150bhp 115CDI turbo diesel engine made light work of driving. An Auto Sock traction aid has been added for slippery weather conditions. The 2.1-litre engine has excellent fuel economy averaging 35mpg. The driving is excellent even with nothing of substance in the back to dull the heavy suspension. ABS is standard as well as further enhanced braking systems in the name of BAS (Brake Assist), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), and ASR (Acceleration Skid Control). No drivers airbag though which seemed a bit strange in this type of building but Mercedes must have their reasons. Visibility is good from large side mirrors and I could still see to reverse well, rear glass doors would have made this half-breed even more like an mpv but could be handy. Improvements have been made to the handling and a tighter turning circle for manoeuvrability has been enhanced in later models. The popularity of double cabs in commercials is demonstrating a new breed of van drivers who want the space and comfort of a car whilst the practicality of a van. The Vito Dualiner is well worth a look. As with all Mercedes commercials the Vito Dualiner holds its price but for the extra practicality compare and see if it's worth it.

The practicality of a van with the comfort and benefits of an MPV. The Vito Dualiner is definitely worth considering if you are looking for one vehicle for both work and play.