Mercedes-Benz Viano MPV 3.0 CDI Ambiente 5dr Review

For This engine gives strong performance and Ambiente trim has a reasonable amount of kit. This standard-length model will be large enough for most people’s needs.

Against The 3.0-litre version is far more expensive than the 2.2 CDI model, which pushes the already high price up too much.

What Car? says

1 out of 5 stars

Given that the 2.2 CDI is decent enough for everyday use and costs so much less, there's no need to spend the extra on this more powerful model.

What Car? readers say

2.714286

Key facts

0–60mph: 9.1 secs
Top speed: 125 mph
Average mpg: 32.8
Tank range: 541 miles

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Features

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Size

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The full Mercedes-Benz Viano review

Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Engines need to be worked hard
Ride & Handling
1 out of 5 stars
Unsettled ride; roly-poly handling
Refinement
1 out of 5 stars
Too much wind and road noise
Buying & Owning
1 out of 5 stars
Too expensive to buy and run
Quality & Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Feels decently solid; mechanicals are proven
Safety & Security
2 out of 5 stars
Should have more airbags
Behind The Wheel
4 out of 5 stars
Comfortable driving position
Space & Practicality
2 out of 5 stars
Spacious, but seats hard to remove
Equipment
2 out of 5 stars
Acceptable, but nothing more

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

With three different body lengths and several engines, choosing a Mercedes Viano can be tricky. Before you buy one, though, look at one of the Viano’s more conventional MPV rivals, many of which better it in terms of value for money, practicality, comfort and refinement.

If you do want one, though, go for the 2.2 CDI Ambiente model. The SWB model will be plenty big enough for most needs, too.

It’s worth noting that the Viano is unique in the Mercedes car range in that it (in common with the commercial van it's based on) doesn’t qualify for the Mercedes Mobilo package. In other Mercs, this provides you with assistance on the road for up to 30 years in more than 30 European countries. The Viano does, however, have the standard Mercedes three-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.