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ProductMercedes-Benz VansKeeping it in the familyNew Valente set to redefine the Australian people-mover segmentMeet the new model fromMercedes-Benz, the Valente. Foranyone familiar with the Viano, you’llunderstand the appeal of the innatepracticality of a people-mover.Where to start. Firstly, the Mercedes-BenzValante packages together all of the brand’sfamed attributes and more. In turn, it hasbeen designed to compete with the likesof Volkswagen Multivan, Toyota Tarago andChrysler Grand Voyager and offers significantadvantages, in terms of specification, whenyou compare it to the competition.Very simply, it offers families and anyone whoneeds the extra space – and seats – a stylishand practical vehicle, at a very affordable price,Scheduled to arrive duringthe second quarter of 2012.particularly when you consider what you’regetting for your money. A newcomer to Australia,it also enters the people-mover segment herewith the range’s award-winning reputation inthe commercial sector firmly in hand.Above all, it’s the new Valente’s practicalityfor, say, families that makes it so appealing.Add to that the most space in the class andyou start to get the idea. You get eight seats –the rear front two having the ability to swivelaround – and there’s loads of useable space,particularly in the ‘boot’, where you couldalmost fit a push bike, standing up. It’s alsofully carpeted throughout.As you’d expect from the range, fueleconomy is exceptional, making it an attractiveproposition to families, in particular. This isn’tat the expense of power and torque, however.The 120kW engine, in fact, has more thanenough power and performance on tap – perfectto have on hand, should you ever need it.“The 120kW/360Nm turbo-diesel powerplantprovides effortless performance while ensuringoutstanding fuel consumption at only 8.2 litresper 100km (combined cycle),” said Mercedes-Benz Vans General Manager Diane Tarr.Beyond the standard features you’ve come toexpect from the brand, the new model comprisesall the bells and whistles, so to speak.Features include handy items such asPARKTRONIC, an automatic-dimming rearviewmirror, THERMOTRONIC air conditioning,a light and rain sensor and both thorax andwindow airbags. Offering a definitive sense ofstyle, the Valente also boasts 17-inch alloys, aleather, multifunction steering wheel, blacktinted windows and an ultra-crisp six-CDchanger/media interface that’s iPod, USB,Bluetooth and AUX compatible. It also comesin seven colours – Arctic White, Jasper Blue,Brilliant Silver Metallic, Flint Grey Metallic,Obsidian Black Metallic, Sanidine BeigeMetallic and Velvet Red Metallic.In addition to being well equipped, the Valenteis also competitively priced. COMAND APS anda reversing camera are available as an option,as are Bi-xenon headlights with LED daytimedriving lights and Dual Electric Sliding Doors.“Although Mercedes-Benz already offersthe luxurious and highly successful Viano,the company identified a gap in the $50,000-$60,000 part of the people-mover segment,” Tarrsaid. “The Valente offers an affordable solutionand will no doubt appeal to families looking forquality, comfort and, more importantly, value interms of what you get for your money”9 Love Your Work March|2012 Love Your Work March|2012 10