Behind the wheel

While we wouldn’t exactly describe the new Vito as a quantum leap forward over the old model, the new engines and other upgrades certainly make this van an even more attractive fleet proposition.

The new headlights and bumper give the Vito a sharper, more modern look while inside, the dashboard looks tidier and the steering wheel sportier.

As the old Vito was no mean performer, most drivers probably wouldn’t notice the difference with the new chassis set-up, but this fresh technology definitely sharpens up the van’s ride and handling characteristics.

But it is the engines which stand out as something a bit special.

Our first drive was in a high-roof, LWB 136bhp model and it’s a great shame here that the Vito’s graceful lines have to be spoiled by a rather ugly roof extension.

But if practicality and loadspace are stronger requirements than smooth looks, this is the van to choose as it offers an extra 1.9 cubic metres of loadspace.

With a full bulkhead fitted, legroom was at a premium, especially for anyone sitting in the middle passenger seat, where the gear lever protrudes painfully.

The seats, meanwhile are typical hard slablike German ones that don’t feel very comfortable at the beginning of a journey.

It is only after a hundred miles or so that you realise that they are actually very good indeed.

Once the engine was fired up, our test van proved quieter and more refined than its predecessor and my co-pilot and I could converse quietly while cruising at motorway speeds.

Fleet buyers will be delighted with the fuel savings on offer and as our van had the optional ECO stop-start fitted (expect a cost of around £400) this model should prove the most economical of all.

It’s a bit fiddly when you first start using this technology but with a dab of the clutch the engine cuts in almost imperceptibly.

It’s certainly worth getting used to for any urban fleets for the fuel savings on offer.

Buyers will also be pleased to see that payload has increased – and by a big amount too.

The old Vito had a maximum of 930kg, whereas the new model offers up to 1,330kg.

With a half load of sand on board, this engine never felt underpowered.

We’d be tempted to go for the lower-powered model as the fleet choice but there were none to test at this event and it’s a big drop from 136bhp to 95bhp.