Not to be overshadowed by Nissan and their new NV Black Cab set to take over Britain’s taxi business, Mercedes announced their intention to score 40 per cent share of the Metropolitan Taxi sector in the UK with their own black cabbie. It’s based on the Viano van, and it seems like a formidable rival for what Nissan has come up with.
Mercedes Vito Taxi is powered by a 116 hp, 2,148cc four-cylinder diesel engine and ha a five-speed automatic transmission. Economy figures are 34.9 mpg and CO2 emissions of 213 g/km, roughly the same as Nissan.
The Viano however will be easier to live with for the driver, not just because of the auto ‘box, but also because it comes with Low Speed Manoeuvrability system (LSM) enabling rear wheel steering, which manes it has a kerb-to-kerb turning circle of just 7.62-metres (25ft). Standard equipment includes independent air conditioning for the driver and passengers, Parktronic sensors, flush-fitting electric steps and electrically opening and closing doors.
The car can also carry six passengers and features a large boot and a further, large, versatile space next to the driver. The Vito Taxi is now available to purchase from £135 per week.
