It was 1996 when Mercedes first released their Vito passenger van, followed by the second generation in 2004. Along the way it also received a new moniker, the Viano. The latest update came in 2010 when Mercedes gave the popular van a facelift with revised front and rear bumpers and lights as well as a more technology laden interior with finer finishes.
Reports are now coming in that Mercedes will be replacing the Viano with a third generation model in 2014, with the new Viano already beginning prototype testing in Europe. Based on sketches obtained by Daimler’s MBPassion, you can instantly see the design influence from the 2014 S-Class and the CLA being carried over into the headlights of the next-gen Viano.
While the Mercedes Viano will continue to fill its current role as an uber-comfortable multi-people transporter, the van will reportedly also fill in as Mercedes R-Class replacement.
Engine wise, it’s likely that the new Mercedes Viano will initially launch with a diesel engine in at least three output options paired with the 7-speed 7G TRONIC gearbox.
You can see all the sketches of the next-generation Mercedes Viano in the gallery below. HT: Shrawan
UPDATE: Check out the latest spy photos of the next-gen Mercedes-Benz Viano testing in Southern Europe.