The Mercedes-Benz V-Class and Vito ranges are some of the most recognisable buses on our local roads. Now Mercedes-Benz offers well-specified "Select" derivatives in the Vito range that, according to the German automaker, will tick most of the boxes for families that need luxurious space or individuals that are ready for an adventure.
Related: What is the difference between a Mercedes-Benz V-Class and a Vito?
But before we delve into what you can expect in the newcomers, remember that you can sell your car quickly and easily on our website here. You can also search for new or used Mercedes-Benz Vito models on AutoTrader here.
Mercedes-Benz Vito Select styling
As with the updated V-Class, the new Mercedes-Benz Vito Select comes with an updated front bumper as wells as a chromed grille. The latter is flanked by Multibeam LED headlamps with Highbeam Assist Plus. It's not just a pretty face but practical enhancements, too.
Move towards the side, and the corners are filled by 17-inch light alloy wheels. For Tourer customers, all three wheel options come with no extra cost. However, Mixto customers might need to spend a little if they prefer the sporty 20-spoke light-alloy wheels.
There have also been cosmetic updates to the taillamps toward the rear of the car. However, the real party piece is the "EASY-PACK" tailgate, which comes as standard and means that, like the two sliding doors on the sides, it automatically opens and closes.
Both the Mercedes-Benz Vito Select Tourer and Mixto variants are offered with an option of eight paint colours with two new additions, namely Alpine Grey and Vintage Blue, in addition to Arctic White, Hyacinth Red Metallic, Graphite Grey Metallic, Jupiter Red, Rock Crystal White Metallic and Obsidian Black Metallic. The rear sides of the Mixto variants can be finished with sporty stripes, too.
Mercedes-Benz Vito Select interior
Step inside the Mercedes-Benz Vito Select Tourer, and you are greeted by eight artificial leather seats. The last row of seats can be removed if owners want to access more luggage space if the 990 litres in the standard configuration isn't enough. The Mixto Select derivative offers five seats in its standard configuration but makes 3 600 litres of luggage space available for owners.
Vito Select customers will also be happy to note that they gain access to electrical seats with memory functions for both front occupants as well as a heated, leather-clad multifunction steering wheel for those colder months. There is also a new centre console with two cup holders in the centre cockpit.
Mercedes-Benz Vito Select technology
Mercedes-Benz wanted to give the customer a well-specified van and, as a result, made the high-spec standard on the Select variants. This means that you get items such as wireless charging as standard.
In addition to this, customers can expect a 10.25-inch touchscreen MBUX infotainment system centrally compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There are USB-C ports available for wired connections and charging, too.
The driver also benefits from a 5.5-inch colour display, on which they can access a variety of vehicle information and adjust assistant systems and other settings.
Speaking of the assistant systems, fitted as standard customers can expect, active lane keeping assist, blind-spot assist, hill-start assist, attention assist, highbeam assist as well as the parking package or self-parking and a reverse camera with front and rear park distance control.
Mercedes-Benz Vito Select safety
As one would expect, the Mercedes-Benz Vito range is rather safe with all of the assistant systems mentioned above. However, in addition to these standard systems, customers can also expect a few other safety features.
Standard in the Mercedes-Benz Vito Select variants are ABS brakes, traction and stability control and even a tyre pressure monitoring system. The models come standard with two airbags, but three or five units can be specified optionally.
Mercedes-Benz Vito Select power
Under the bonnet of a Mercedes-Benz Vito Select, you will find a MU6, 2.0-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder diesel motor producing 140 kW and 440 Nm of torque. The motor is paired with a 9G-Tronic 9-speed torque converter automatic transmission that sends the power to the rear wheels.
One of the more impressive characteristics of the drivetrain configuration is that it has a service interval of 25 000 km or every year, whichever comes first. However, it should be noted that the Vito Select comes standard with a 5-year / 100 000km warranty; however, the PremiumDrive maintenance plan is optional. Pricing is below:
| Vito Select PremiumDrive 5-year / 100 000 km | R48 530 incl. VAT |
| Vito Select PremiumDrive 7-year / 140 000 km | R75 038 incl. VAT |
*Pricing indicated in this article was correct at the time of publishing; however, it can change at any time and without notice.
Mercedes-Benz Vito Select price
Pricing for the Mercedes-Benz Vito Select Tourer and Mixto derivatives are as follows:
| Mercedes-Benz Vito 119 CDI Mixto Select | from R 1 264 200 |
| Mercedes-Benz Vito 119 CDI Tourer Select | from R 1 375 279 |
*Pricing indicated in this article was correct at the time of publishing; however, it can change at any time and without notice.
Mercedes-Benz Vito Select verdict
As you would expect from most buses, the seating position is nice and high, and with the large windscreen and tall greenhouse, visibility around the vehicle is very good, even on the Mixto. But other than those characteristics, the Vito Select range gives the impression that you are driving a normal Mercedes-Benz car.
In fact, if it weren't for the length, it wouldn't feel like a bus at all. The power is ample, and the transmission is smooth and responsive. The ride quality and harshness are very good. The road noise, while not a lot, is amplified because of the big empty cabin; however, we suspect it will be subdued once there are a few passengers and some luggage.
Overall, we were very impressed by the Mercedes-Benz Vito Select, even though some switchgear, such as the seat adjustment buttons and even the older-style steering wheel, does show its age compared to some more modern Mercedes-Benz products.
However, we will say this: the Mercedes-Benz Vito Select models offer excellent value for money for a premium product. At this price point, both the Mixto and Tourer variants compete well within their segments, especially considering the levels of luxury they offer.
