The Mercedes-Benz Vito (W447), particularly the facelifted 2023 model, represents the third generation of this popular mid-size van. While not widely sold in the United States due to market preferences favoring larger vans and pickup trucks, the Vito holds a significant position in the European commercial vehicle market. Offered in multiple configurations – including cargo, passenger (Tourer), and crew van variants – the Vito caters to a diverse range of needs, from tradespeople to families. The W447 generation, introduced in 2014 and updated in 2023, emphasizes practicality, efficiency, and a degree of refinement uncommon in its class. This article focuses on the 2023 facelifted Crew Van Long 119 CDI model, equipped with the 190 horsepower diesel engine and 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
Mercedes-Benz Vito W447: Overview and Market Position
The Vito, along with its mechanically similar sibling the Sprinter, is a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s commercial vehicle lineup. The W447 generation marked a shift towards more car-like driving dynamics and interior comfort compared to its predecessors. The 2023 facelift brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and improved efficiency. The Crew Van Long configuration, as detailed here, is designed to accommodate both passengers and cargo, making it suitable for businesses requiring mobile workspaces or families needing versatile transportation. In Europe, the Vito competes with vans like the Volkswagen Transporter, Ford Transit Custom, and Peugeot Expert.
Engine & Performance
The 2023 Vito 119 CDI Crew Van Long is powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine (OM 654.920) producing 190 horsepower at 4200 rpm and 440 Nm (324.53 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1350 and 2400 rpm. This engine features bi-turbocharging with an intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, contributing to both power and fuel efficiency. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 97.4 hp/l. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is designed to optimize fuel economy and provide smooth gear changes. The Vito 119 CDI achieves a maximum speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 10.5 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 4.5 kg/Nm. Standard features include a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6e standards.
Design & Features
The Vito W447 Crew Van Long is a four- to five-door van designed to carry between five and six passengers, depending on the configuration. The “Long” designation indicates an extended wheelbase, providing increased cargo space behind the passenger area. The 2023 facelift included subtle styling updates to the front fascia, headlights, and grille, giving the van a more modern appearance. Inside, the Vito offers a functional and durable interior with a focus on practicality. Key features include a comfortable driver’s seat, a user-friendly infotainment system (depending on trim level), and ample storage compartments. Safety features, crucial in a commercial vehicle, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed for load-carrying. The van’s dimensions are: length 5140 mm (202.36 in), width 1928 mm (75.91 in) including mirrors 2244 mm (88.35 in), height 1910 mm (75.2 in), and wheelbase 3200 mm (125.98 in). The minimum turning circle is 11.8 m (38.71 ft).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vito |
| Generation | Vito (W447, facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 119 CDI (190 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | July, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 8.9-9.2 l/100 km (26.4 – 25.6 US mpg, 31.7 – 30.7 UK mpg, 11.2 – 10.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 7.1-7.4 l/100 km (33.1 – 31.8 US mpg, 39.8 – 38.2 UK mpg, 14.1 – 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 6.1-6.4 l/100 km (38.6 – 36.8 US mpg, 46.3 – 44.1 UK mpg, 16.4 – 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 7.2-7.8 l/100 km (32.7 – 30.2 US mpg, 39.2 – 36.2 UK mpg, 13.9 – 12.8 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7.1-7.5 l/100 km (33.1 – 31.4 US mpg, 39.8 – 37.7 UK mpg, 14.1 – 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 186-196 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 1350-2400 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 1350-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 654.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1950 cm3 (119 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.3 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.4 l (10.99 US qt | 9.15 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1990-2222 kg (4387.2 – 4898.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 810-978 kg (1785.74 – 2156.12 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 3600 l (127.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 24 l (6.34 US gal | 5.28 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 150 kg (330.69 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5140 mm (202.36 in.) |
| Width | 1928 mm (75.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2244 mm (88.35 in.) |
| Height | 1910 mm (75.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200 mm (125.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1666 mm (65.59 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Front overhang | 895 mm (35.24 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1045 mm (41.14 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17; 235/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 7J x 17 |
The Mercedes-Benz Vito W447, particularly the 119 CDI Crew Van Long, offers a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and comfort for commercial and family use in the European market. Its robust diesel engine, advanced transmission, and versatile configuration make it a popular choice for those requiring a capable and adaptable van.
