DaimlerChrysler Malaysia joins the Van Market with the Vito and Sprinter
DaimlerChrysler Malaysia joins the Van Market with the Vito and Sprinter
DaimlerChrysler Malaysia is making a foray into the van market with the official introduction of its Vito and Sprinter van models. Riding on the trend towards MPV’s and large vans being used as day-to day transports, DaimlerChrysler hopes to get some additional sales to complement its existing range of vehicles. The Vito, a van with a 7-seater capacity, is not a stranger on our shores, having been imported in small quantities by other importers.
“Vans are proving increasingly popular with a wide range of users. On one hand, there are private users who opt for the space and flexible interior configuration options provided. Commercial customers on the other hand, value the flexibility and performance of today’s vans such as the Mercedes-Benz Vito and Sprinter,” said Konstantinos Tsiknas, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, DaimlerChrysler Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
The Vito is a rear-wheel drive vehicle, and comes with two engine choices – petrol and CDI diesel while the Sprinter comes with a diesel engine and two wheelbase variants. The Vito diesel is available with a 4-cylinder in-line engine developing 150 hp, and delivers peak power between 1800 and 2400 rpm, giving it plenty of get-up-and-go. A petrol powered V6 offers 190 hp and 270 Nm of torque. Generally kitted as a people carrier, the Vito hopes to find buyers amongst private owners, hotels and travel agencies. The top of the range Vito is the Grand Vito, designed as a luxury version to cater for those who want the best features inside.
For commercial usage, the Sprinter has a less powerful, but more economical diesel engine developing 129 hp, and drive is also to the rear wheels. The Sprinter is fitted as a 15-seater mini-bus, and is targeted for the larger travel agencies and tour companies. Both model variants are fitted with 5-speed automatic transmissions. Both also feature large sized disc brakes all round, with ABS and Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ASR (Acceleration Skid Control), electronic brake force distribution and Brake Assist system. These features effectively make the Vito and Sprinter ideal for carrying precious human cargo, but the specifications do come with a price tag.
The vans are imported in collaboration with Nusa, and will be sold alongside the passenger cars through the existing dealer network. Prices range from RM235k to RM300k for the Vito, and RM246k to RM252k for the Sprinter.
