The Mercedes-Benz Vito (W447), particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2023, is a light commercial vehicle primarily marketed and sold in Europe. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vito occupies a crucial segment as a versatile panel van catering to businesses and tradespeople requiring a practical and adaptable cargo solution. The W447 generation, launched in 2014, received a significant refresh in 2023, incorporating updated styling, enhanced technology, and improved efficiency. This article focuses on the long-wheelbase, 114 CDI variant, equipped with a 136 horsepower diesel engine and the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
Mercedes-Benz Vito W447 (2023 Facelift) Overview
The Vito, positioned below the larger Sprinter in Mercedes-Benz’s commercial vehicle lineup, is known for its robust construction, comfortable driving experience (for a van), and a wide range of configurations. The 2023 facelift brought subtle but noticeable improvements to the exterior design, including a revised front grille, updated headlights, and a more modern interior. The 114 CDI model, powered by a 1.9-liter diesel engine, represents a balance between fuel economy and performance, making it a popular choice for urban deliveries and longer-distance transport.
Engine & Performance
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz Vito 114 CDI utilizes a 1.95-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated OM 654.920. This engine produces 136 horsepower at 4200 rpm and 330 Nm (243.4 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1100 and 2400 rpm. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle and paired with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides smooth and efficient power delivery, contributing to the Vito’s respectable fuel economy. The engine incorporates a turbocharger and intercooler to optimize performance. The weight-to-power ratio is 13.7 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.6 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonable balance between weight and output. The Vito 114 CDI achieves a maximum speed of 183 km/h (113.71 mph) and meets Euro 6e emission standards, incorporating a particulate filter and Start & Stop system to minimize environmental impact.
Design & Features
The Vito W447 is available in various body configurations, including panel van, crew van, and passenger variants. The model discussed here is a panel van with a long wheelbase, offering a substantial cargo capacity of 6000 liters (211.89 cu. ft.). The van typically accommodates 2-3 passengers. The exterior design is functional and utilitarian, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics. The 2023 facelift brought a more refined appearance with updated front-end styling. Inside, the Vito features a driver-focused cabin with ergonomic seating and a functional dashboard. Modern features include an updated infotainment system, improved connectivity options, and a range of driver-assistance systems designed to enhance safety and convenience. These systems typically include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and electric power steering. The Vito’s suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and an independent coil spring trailing arm arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride even when fully loaded.
Practicality and Cargo Capacity
A key strength of the Vito is its versatility. The long wheelbase provides ample space for cargo, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. The maximum load capacity ranges from 942 to 1075 kg (2076.75 – 2369.97 lbs.), depending on the specific configuration. The Vito also offers a respectable towing capacity, with a maximum braked trailer load of 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) and an unbraked trailer load of 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.). The roof load is limited to 150 kg (330.69 lbs.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vito |
| Generation | Vito (W447, facelift 2023) Panel Van Long |
| Type (Engine) | 114 CDI (136 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | July, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 8.1-8.3 l/100 km (29 – 28.3 US mpg, 34.9 – 34 UK mpg, 12.3 – 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 6.7-6.8 l/100 km (35.1 – 34.6 US mpg, 42.2 – 41.5 UK mpg, 14.9 – 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 5.8-5.9 l/100 km (40.6 – 39.9 US mpg, 48.7 – 47.9 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 7.2-7.3 l/100 km (32.7 – 32.2 US mpg, 39.2 – 38.7 UK mpg, 13.9 – 13.7 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.8-6.9 l/100 km (34.6 – 34.1 US mpg, 41.5 – 40.9 UK mpg, 14.7 – 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 178-181 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp, 73.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 177.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 330 Nm @ 1100-2400 rpm (243.4 lb.-ft. @ 1100-2400 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 | Turbocharger, 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 | 1858-2025 kg (4096.19 – 4464.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3100 kg (6172.94 – 6834.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 942-1075 kg (2076.75 – 2369.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 6000 l (211.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 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 with mirrors folded | 2060 mm (81.1 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
The Mercedes-Benz Vito W447, particularly the 114 CDI variant, remains a compelling option for businesses and individuals seeking a practical, efficient, and reliable light commercial vehicle. While not available in the US market, its popularity in Europe underscores its value as a versatile workhorse.
