Mercedes says the Vito Taxi offers unrivalled levels of space and refined comfort for the driver and up to six passengers, as well as being fully-wheelchair accessible. Available initially in a National specification, customers can choose from the front wheel-drive 109CDI model, with an 87 bhp Euro 6 engine, or the 114CDI with a 112 bhp Euro 6 engine, which drives the rear wheels. Both come with manual gearboxes (an optional seven-speed automatic gearbox is available for the 114CDI models) and in Compact or Long body lengths.
Later in 2016, a London specification version will be available, incorporating a rear steering axle that allows it to meet the 25ft turning circle rule as prescribed by the Public Carriage Office so it can execute a U-turn in London’s congested streets.
The London variant is offered with the more powerful engine as standard together with the 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic gearbox, which is now controlled using a steering column-mounted lever.
Standard equipment on both versions includes the fuel-saving BlueEFFICIENCY measures which features engine Start/Stop function for the 114CDI models, air conditioning for driver and passengers, electric folding mirrors, electrically operated sliding doors on both sides and electrical nearside step; London versions feature an additional off-side step.
Steve Bridge, Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Vans UK, commented: “We are passionate about supporting the UK’s taxi drivers, and are delighted to be offering the most fuel-efficient, modern, comfortable, reliable vehicle ever seen in the market.”