The Viano Combines Mercedes Technology and Efficiency

Mercedes-Benz engineers sensed an opportunity in the MPV (multipurpose van) class when they designed the Viano in 1996. Available in two captivating models, the elegant Viano Ambiente or for the new, dynamic Viano Avantgarde, Mercedes-Benz has created a comfortable MPV for vehicle buyers in Hong Kong that need more room. The Viano’s attractive exterior and interior features will draw plenty a stare from passersby and onlookers.

They will be immediately captivated by the Viano’s distinctive radiator, featuring three silver-painted slats with chrome panels and a front bumper that gets all the attention with an integral spoiler and aerodynamic lips. Once their eyes follow the rest of the vehicle down to the sporty rear design which includes a lower bumper and redesigned tail lights reflectors and black glass-look surrounds.

Viano Combines Mercedes Technology

The striking appearances aren’t limited to the exterior of the vehicle as the interior boasts fine materials such as the high-quality “Leon” fabric and “Lugano” leather appointments. The careful workmanship is evidenced in the Viano’s interior elements.  The refined elegance of its cockpit is characterized by its soft-touch, easy-grip surface. With an adjustable multifunction steering wheel and driver’s seat allow the driver to adjust it to the optimal settings, its interior is attractive, it is extremely practical as well.

A centre console with a cup holder offers additional stowage space smaller items. Other impressive interior features, depending on the equipment selected are integral air ducts in the roof and floor that optimise the temperature throughout the passenger compartment. And rear occupants can control the temperature with an additional integral heat exchanger with separate controls.

An option that’s proving popular with many is the Thermotronic automatic climate control, which delivers additional comfort via an enhanced sensor technology that offers automatic temperature and airflow control, a sun sensor and an air recirculation switch which gives the occupants the freedom to close the ventilation flaps in order to restrict outside odors and pollution from entering the vehicle.

Another van that offers similar interior versatility is the Volkswagen Multivan which is very representative of the full-size vans on the road today. Combining the comfort of a limousine, van and truck, the Multivan comes equipped with an interior with a system of rails in the floor for increased adaptability. Standard equipment of the local 3-seat sofa-bed can be expanded in place. And its individual swivel seats have adjustable backrest and armrests provide additional comfort for those long-distance travels.

The Mercedes-Benz reputation of designing vehicles that are powerful as they are attractive is continued with the Viano.  The rear wheel drive Ambiente and Avantagarde are both equipped with 3.5L, V6 engines and 5-speed NAG W5A380 automatic transmissions.

With a total displacement of 3498cc’s, a maximum torque of 340 Nm at an engine speed of 2500 -5000 rpm’s, it can reach a maximum speed of 217 km’s per hour. MPV owners are always curious about a vehicle’s payload and the Viano delivers with a payload of 700 – 1000 kg’s. Its strength is demonstrated by its increased towing capacity of 750 kg’s then used with special equipment, braked/unbraked.

Finally, the Viano offers a smoother ride due to its comfort suspension that features comfortable spring and damper tuning as well as wishbones and comfort mountings. Drivers and passengers will be more than pleased with the resulting reduction in noise levels and further improved tyre vibration characteristics. Much of the improvement can be attributed to the optionally available rear air suspension with electronic self-leveling (standard for Viano Ambiente and Viano Avantgarde) as well as the Electronic Stability Program ESP®, which is also available with the option of integral ESP® Trailer Stability Assist.

The Electronic Stability Program ESP® improves the safety of a vehicle's stability by minimizing the loss of control in dangerous situations. The Viano Avantgarde is exclusively equipped with a sports suspension which controls and coordinates agility, road holding and cornering performance for a safer drive.

The Mercedes-Benz Viano available in the Ambiente and Avantgarde models offers the ultimate in the van-driving experience.
John Lee
About the Author:

John Lee writes about cars. He lives in Hong Kong and cars are his passion.

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