Telecoms specialist Andy Innes has become one of the UK’s first customers for the latest, dynamic model from the Mercedes-Benz Vito range.
The proprietor of AI Communications, of Walderslade, near Maidstone, Kent, took delivery of his eye-catching Vito Sport 119 BlueTEC from Dealer Sparshatts of Kent. A Long-bodied crew van, it is fitted with a second row of seats.
The first Sport variants of the latest-generation mid-sized Mercedes-Benz Vito are just taking to the road. Designed to work hard and play hard, the sleek model combines outstanding comfort, practicality and safety features, with eye-catching visual enhancements including 17-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels, colour-coded bumpers, chrome trim and sidebars and custom Sport mats.
Andy’s vehicle is powered by a range-topping 2.1-litre engine that produces 190 hp yet consumes significantly less fuel than its equivalent predecessor – economy is improved by around 14 mpg. This advanced engine complies with stringent Euro 6 emissions regulations and is paired as standard with a smooth-shifting 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission.
His third consecutive Mercedes-Benz Vito – and second Sport model – has certainly made a positive impression on its new owner. “I also own a premium brand German saloon and a high-performance two-seater but I prefer driving my new van,” enthused Andy.
“It’s very comfortable and, as I’ve gone for the bigger engine this time, noticeably quicker than my last Vito Sport, yet is also economical. And of course, it looks great. In fact, I’m thinking about retaining my previous Vito Sport for muckier jobs, just so I can keep the new one nice and clean!”
Andy has spent the last 27 years working as a contractor to a leading healthcare technology manufacturer, whose products allow older people and those with long-term needs to remain in their homes. He covers the South-East and provides employment for six fellow telecoms engineers.
Andy explained: “The nurse call alarms, panic buttons and other systems that we install and maintain are from the top end of the market, so I’m very conscious of the importance of presenting a smart, professional image. My Vito Sport fits the bill perfectly.”
He continued: “I carry a lot of materials and spares in the van, but because it’s so stylish I’m also happy to use it in the evenings and at weekends. My wife underwent heart surgery a while ago and together with our daughter we do quite a bit of fund-raising. There are lots of social events and quite a big crowd involved, so with its five comfortable seats the Vito is ideal.”
Like its predecessor, Andy’s new van will be maintained by Sparshatts of Kent – the Dealer’s Sittingbourne workshop remains open through the night which means servicing can be undertaken at times that suit him, so the vehicle will always be available for work when he needs it. He has also signed-up to a fixed-cost Mercedes-Benz Service Care plan, covering all labour, parts and lubricants required in routine servicing.
“Sparshatts have always been very good and came up with the right deal once again,” added Andy.