| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Not recommended. A compact people-carrier based on the A Class but let down by very poor ride, a very silly name and grossly over-optimistic pricetags. |
| Handling |
|
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
 |
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
 |
| Running Costs |
|
| Value for Money |
 |
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
|
| NCAP |
| 4 |
| Best Models |
| 1.6 (82 bhp) Trend |
| Worst Models |
| 1.9 Ambiente |
| Replacement |
| 2008 |
|
 |
| Road Test |
| The Vaneo is Mercedes's late-to-the-party attempt to get in on the compact MPV boom exemplified by such cars as the Vauxhall Zafira and Renault Scenic. That was the idea, anyway, but in practice the Vaneo disappoints in every regard except that of putting a Mercedes three-pointed star on your keyfob. It has lots of interior space (but then, so does the cheaper A Class), but the Vaneo's boxy proportions make it look like a commercial vehicle, and the over-hard suspension gives a horrendous ride if anything less than fully laden. The basic 82 bhp 1.6 engine is woefully slow, and although the more powerful engines are better they come attached to some laughably steep pricetags. Tha Vaneo isn't fooling anybody. |
| Positive Points |
- Big load space for its size
- More prestigious than your average midi-MPV
- Promises long-term reliability and durability
|
| Negative Points |
- Not much fun to drive, firm ride
- Seven-seater option eats into load area
- 1.6 and 1.7 CDi feel a bit underpowered
|
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