Spy photos of the third generation Mercedes-Benz Viano made their way to the web today with the very first photos of a chassis test mule.
The Mercedes-Benz Viano was introduced in 2004 as a passenger version of the Vito commercial panel van and went on to receive a facelift in 2010 with revised bumpers and lights.
According to sources multiple prototypes have been spotted around Europe, with all of them sporting the same modified bonnet that can be seen in the Viano spy photos. Some in the office think that with that high of a bonnet and such a massive grille, the model appears to be aggressive almost as if it were an AMG version – but more than likely the design is just a temporary solution in order to fit a new engine and/or its cooling system in the mule’s body, perhaps with some testing equipment too.
The next Mercedes-Benz Vito and Viano are expected to make their debut in 2013 or 2014. We will of course keep you updated as new information comes in. Also, make sure to watch as there is the chance that a Renault-badged version of the same model will also surface as the partnership between the two groups allows them to work together on both cars and transporters.
Photos Via: Euro Car Blog
