Mercedes-Benz Unveils The Brand-New Viano
Published: 11th May 2003
Characteristically Mercedes-Benz
The new design immediately gives away the characteristic Mercedes-Benz breeding of the new Viano. Compared to the model it replaces, the side profile has taken on a noticeably more dynamic form. The headlamps, the radiator grille and the way in which the lines flow harmoniously from the bumper back to the front windscreen and blend smoothly into the side panelling are all unmistakable traits. At the rear of the vehicle, it is the vertical strips of large-sized taillights which really make the new models stand out.
The interior specification of the two new models is as refreshingly new as the exterior. Motorists looking for luxury will find exactly what they are looking for in the Mercedes-Benz Viano.
Thanks to the exemplary ergonomics of the dashboard's design and the logical arrangement of all controls, drivers will instantly be able to find their way around the Viano. The dash-mounted selector lever or gearshift lever is ideally positioned, while the clear gauges and displays of the instrument cluster are placed within easy view of the driver. A multifunction steering wheel is available as an option, and is even fitted as standard on the AMBIENTE line. The generous standard specification can be supplemented to include further optional extras, such as leather-upholstered seats, auxiliary heating or one of the radio and navigation systems on offer.
The passenger compartment is fitted with an extremely practical rail system, whose 25 mm hole pattern allows for simple fitting, fore-and-aft adjustment and flexible repositioning of the individual seats and bench seats. In addition to this, both the individual seats and the segments of the bench seats can be folded flat or tilted fully forwards. The seats can be positioned to face in any direction, meaning that a face to face seating arrangement is also possible.
The range of design and equipment lines on offer – TREND and AMBIENTE – offers customers models which have been specifically geared towards either the needs of families, recreational activities or professional use. The choice of models for either day-to-day driving, recreational use or luxury motoring combines with the different vehicle lengths which are available to produce a highly versatile product portfolio. Customers are also able to opt for one of the equipment packages entitled Business, Life and Bike, which feature a selection of practical optional extras for specific applications.
Market Launch
The new Mercedes-Benz Viano will make its public debut at the IAA in Frankfurt (13-21 September, 2003), with order books opening before then in mid-June. The Mercedes-Benz V-Class will then be replaced successively in the markets, starting in autumn 2003.
Production will take place at the DaimlerChrysler plant in Vitoria, Spain, where the manufacturing facilities have been practically doubled in size in preparation. A completely new body shop equipped with 550 state-of-the-art robots has been installed there, along with a new paint shop and a new assembly line. In parallel to this, a revolutionary quality management concept is now being practised at the plant.
UK Details
The new Viano makes its UK debut in the winter of 2003. UK engine details, specifications and prices will be announced closer to the launch.
