The new Mercedes-Benz Vito range has had its world premier, revealing a van that Mercedes-Benz says is ‘astonishingly versatile’. Autobiz was there.

Not due here until April 2015, the new Vito range comprises the familiar panel van, Mixto and people carrier models.

First in its class to offer front, rear and all-wheel drive options, the Vito gets an altogether more powerful appearance thanks to a newly-designed front end that is more rounded and more muscular. Its redesigned cockpit is more spacious than before whilst being clear and uncluttered for maximum operational safety.

Longer than its predecessor, it is the only vehicle in its class to come in three lengths. At 1369 kg, it has the highest payload in its class and up to four permissible gross vehicle weight variants between 2.5 and 3.2 tonnes.

Other features include reduced fuel consumption, five power ratings, and a host of safety elements that can also be found in the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range.

Commenting, their commercial vehicles sales manager in Ireland, Fergus Conheady said “while we still have lots of business to do before the new Vito arrives, its introduction will offer customers a distinctly more comprehensive choice of features and options than we have been able to offer previously in this class of vehicle.”

Prices, which are still subject to negotiation, will not be announced until closer to introduction.