Mercedes-Benz has moved to broadened the appeal of its excellent people mover lineup – headed by a new eight-set model called the Valente.
The revised lineup is:
Vito $49,990 (a reduction of $3,000)
Valente $54,490
Viano $70,946
The eight-seat Mercedes-Benz Valente is based on the Vito and comes with the usual extensive Mercedes-Benz list of standard features including 17-inch alloy wheels, thermotronic air-conditioning, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers and a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel.
Over the entry-grade Vito, the Mercedes-Benz Valente adds extras like carpet flooring, rear privacy glass, soft-touch interior trim, thorax and front window airbags, Parktronic and the Audio 20 sound system with iPod, USB and AUX inputs.
On the options list are satellite navigation, dual electric sliding doors, Bi-Xenon headlights and an alarm system.
Power comes from Mercedes-Benz’ 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine delivering 120kW/360Nm via a five-speed automatic transmission. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.2l/100kms.
With eight reclining seats, cargo space of 730-litres, a towing capacity of 2000kgs and an impressively small 11.8-metre turning circle, the new Mercedes-Benz Valente is fully equipped for both family buyers and commercial operations like airport/hotel shuttles.
“We have developed the Valente following feedback from our customers and dealers to provide a mid-range people mover variant below the upscale Viano,” explained Dr Kolja Rebstock, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles.
