MERCEDES-BENZ VIANO MPV FULL REVIEW

Mercedes-Benz Viano MPV full 9 point review

Performance

2 out of 5 stars

The Viano is a large, heavy MPV, and although the two 2.1-litre diesel engines (a 134bhp version badged 2.0 CDI and a 161bhp version badged 2.2 CDI) provide decent flexibility, they’re far from fast. Both get a six-speed manual gearbox when combined with Trend trim, but Ambiente versions get a five-speed auto. The auto-only 221bhp 3.0 V6 diesel provides more pace.
Ride & Handling

1 out of 5 stars

The Viano is surprisingly easy to manoeuvre, thanks to its relatively tight turning circle, but it feels every bit of its size when you’re tackling bends at higher speeds. The suspension never settles, either – it picks up on most surface imperfections, which makes the ride uncomfortable for too much of the time. Not ideal in an MPV.
Refinement

1 out of 5 stars

The engines need to be pushed quite hard to offer any meaningful performance, and this hurts refinement at low speeds. The engines calm down as speeds rise, but the clatter is replaced by wind and road noise, meaning the Viano still isn’t as relaxing on the motorway as it should be.

Buying & Owning

1 out of 5 stars

The Viano is extremely expensive compared with MPV rivals, and the prices look even crazier once you remember that it’s essentially a van with windows and seats. Yes, discounts are available, but resale values aren’t very strong, despite the premium badge. All versions manage more than 30mpg, but that’s not great compared with the figures of other MPVs. The same goes for CO2 emissions.
Quality & Reliability

3 out of 5 stars

The Viano feels sturdy enough and generally well built. Some of the trim around the base of the rear seats feels flimsy, but the overall impression is one of sufficient quality to deal with family life. The oily bits are all proven, so we don’t expect a problem with reliability.
Safety & Security

2 out of 5 stars

All models come with stability control and emergency brake assist, but entry-level versions have only two airbags. Top models add side airbags, but you’ll have to pay extra for head airbags on any Viano. In a car that can carry up to eight people, that’s just not good enough. For security, all models have remote central locking, an alarm and immobiliser but, as with some Mercedes models, there are no deadlocks.

Behind The Wheel

4 out of 5 stars

The Viano’s steering wheel adjusts for reach and rake, and the driver’s seat can be raised and lowered to suit. That means drivers of all shapes and sizes should be able to get comfortable. The dashboard and centre console are sensibly laid out, and there’s excellent cabin stowage, but visibility is hurt by the thick front pillars.
Space & Practicality

2 out of 5 stars

The Viano has seven seats as standard, or you can choose six individual chairs with loads of elbowroom or eight seats for maximum people-carrying ability. Whichever set-up you go for, the seats are heavy to slide or remove, so tapping into the car’s full versatility takes some serious effort. Rival MPVs have seats that fold flat into the floor, so are far more user-friendly.
Equipment

2 out of 5 stars

The entry-level Trend model comes with essentials such as air-con, a CD player, Bluetooth and remote central locking, but not much else. Far pricier Ambiente versions give you an automatic gearbox, leather upholstery, alloys, rear air suspension and xenon headlamps. Despite the steep prices, you still have to pay extra for parking sensors or sat-nav on all models, though.