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Mercedes Vaneo

If you're trying to hide your latest MPV's commercial vehicle origins from image-conscious buyers, calling it the Vaneo is not the best start. But despite the unfortunate badge, Mercedes has high hopes for its new mid-sized people mover, which aims to steal sales from the likes of the Renault Scenic and even bigger people carriers such as the best-selling Ford Galaxy.

March 2002

If you're trying to hide your latest MPV's commercial vehicle origins from image-conscious buyers, calling it the Vaneo is not the best start. But despite the unfortunate badge, Mercedes has high hopes for its new mid-sized people mover, which aims to steal sales from the likes of the Renault Scenic and even bigger people carriers such as the best-selling Ford Galaxy.

The transition from rough-and-ready workhorse to accommodating MPV is far from easy, especially if you've got a brand image like Mercedes. Nissan's lacklustre Serena proved how not to do it, while Citroen's Berlingo, the wacky Renault Kangoo and the Fiat Doblo provide strictly no-frills family motoring for those who need their space. But Mercedes has to live up to its prestigious reputation while still appealing to young families.

On first inspection, the commercial origins of the Vaneo are obvious - just like the cut-price competition. The sweeping A-Class-style front end looks stylish, but the high roof and boxy rear are more transport caff than River Cafe.

However, the presence of the three-pointed star should be enough to guarantee a more car-like experience inside. The massive dimensions of the Vaneo mean small children could get lost in the roomy interior, and the driver feels tucked away in a corner. All the controls are laid out in typically efficient Mercedes style. The steering wheel and chunky five-speed gearstick feel like they belong in a luxury saloon, and the solid and simple switchgear is all within easy reach. Mercedes' mission statement to deliver a family-friendly mini-MPV is still very obvious as the garish interior fabric shows that the Vaneo's target audience is more at home in the creche than the boardroom. The mid-range Family trim level features integrated child booster seats and airline-style fold-down tables for rear passengers. Other concessions to the kids include junk-gobbling stow-age trays in the rear and low lighting so anxious parents can keep a watchful eye on their snoozing offspring during long journeys.

Engines are borrowed from the A-Class range, which is good news, especially for diesel enthusiasts. Two oil-burners will be offered, both 1.7-litre CDIs, with 75 or 91bhp. Mercedes claims an average of 47.8mpg for both. Petrol powerplants include the range-topping 125bhp 1.9-litre unit of our test car or an entry-level 75bhp 1.6-litre. The Vaneo's gearchange is direct and slick, while the steering is light and positive. Excellent visibility makes low-speed manoeuvres a breeze, and motorway refinement is top notch, despite the Mercedes' height. Handling is also surprisingly good, thanks to a long 2.9-metre wheelbase and wide track. This gives greater stability and ride quality than on the A-Class, with which it shares chassis components.

The Vaneo is a major leap ahead of its bulky van-based V-Class brother, which has proved too big and expensive for family buyers and now fills more airport taxi ranks than suburban driveways. Customer research has made the Vaneo a better overall package, and the inclusion of some clever features has created a comfortable, accommodating family car that can double up easily as a load-hauling van. Rear seats can be removed to create an impressive 3,000-litre capacity, and the cargo bay's optional retractable floor panel makes loading bulky items easy. You can also specify two extra child seats for the rear and a collapsible cover that protects the area from dirt and damage. Two other trim levels are offered alongside the Family pack - the standard Trend and range-topping Ambiente, which comes with leather upholstery and walnut trim.

An entry-level 1.6-litre model will cost

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