Mercedes-Benz Viano MPV 3.0 CDI Ambiente XL 5dr Review

For This version is brisk and decently equipped, coming with a leather trim, an automatic gearbox, xenon headlights and rear air suspension as standard.

Against This 3.0 CDI is far more expensive to buy than the 2.2 CDI. There's plenty of room in the standard-length model, so there's no need to spend the extra on this version.

What Car? says

1 out of 5 stars

Given that the 2.2 CDI is decent enough for everyday use and costs far less, it’s pointless spending the extra on this more powerful model, especially in this longer body.

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.