The Marco Polo product family: identical genes, different characters

Independence and everyday practicality in a compact camper van and recreational vehicle: it is a promise the Marco Polo and the Marco Polo ACTIVITY have been living up to since 2015. In January 2017, the product family welcomed a new addition: the Marco Polo HORIZON.

The Marco Polo ACTIVITY, based on the Vito, is above all a functional and versatile companion. Featuring an exceptionally variable interior and comfortable sleeping options for up to five people, the Marco Polo ACTIVITY is aimed at young families as well as at sports enthusiasts and outdoor fans looking for a vehicle both for everyday use and for short holidays and outdoor activities.

The Marco Polo is based on the V-Class and offers space for four people. It is equipped with a kitchenette, wardrobe, swivelling front seats, a bench/berth and roof bed. The compact camper van is the ideal companion for individualists and savourers who like to use their vehicle for longer trips whilst looking to retain as much independence as possible and enjoy familiar living comfort. They also attach importance to style and appreciate everyday practicality.

The Marco Polo HORIZON, based on the V-Class, combines the high-quality design of the Marco Polo with the maximum functionality of the Marco Polo ACTIVITY, thanks to its flexible seating configurations with up to seven seats and sleeping options for up to five people. As such it is the ideal supplement to the portfolio with appeal to additional target groups.

At Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2017, the first edition models of the Marco Polo HORIZON and new optional equipment features celebrate their premiere.

Limited Edition “Designo hyacinth red metallic” – for a particularly stylish appearance

From September 2017, Mercedes-Benz Vans will be offering their most style-conscious customers in Europe a special limited edition of the Marco Polo HORIZON, the so called Limited Edition “Designo hyacinth red metallic”. The edition model features the elegant paint colour already familiar from certain Mercedes-Benz passenger car models – including the C-Class and E-Class. However, with the Marco Polo HORIZON it comes as standard in combination with the Night Package. The Night Package further enhances the exterior with black design highlights (for more information on the Night Package, see page 4). Additional extras – including, for example, the AMG Line – are available for the Limited Edition “Designo hyacinth red metallic” on request.

The Limited Edition “Designo hyacinth red metallic” in conjunction with the Night Package will also be available for the Marco Polo and the V-Class from September 2017.

Marco Polo HORIZON EDITION – sporty, comfortable, functional and attractively priced

With the Marco Polo HORIZON EDITION, Mercedes-Benz Vans is launching another edition model of its compact recreational vehicle for the German market, with numerous extras to give it a sporty look, additional functionality and comfort as standard and all at an attractive price of 55,750 Euro (including 19 percent VAT). The Marco Polo HORIZON EDITION will be available from September 2017.

The sporty good looks of the Marco Polo HORIZON EDITION are what set it apart from the base model. The Exterior Sports Package, together with metallic paintwork, 17-inch alloy wheels and tinted rear windows, give the vehicle a dynamic appearance. Furthermore, the edition model comes with a separately opening rear window as standard. This makes loading and unloading easier in two respects: on the one hand, it allows a second loading level; on the other – particularly in tight parking spaces – there is no need to open the large liftgate. The Marco Polo HORIZON EDITION also offers increased comfort. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission ensures that the vehicle handles nicely. The Parking Package with reversing camera and Active Parking Assist makes parking and reversing in tight spaces much easier. TEMPMATIC air-conditioning ensures that a pleasant temperature is always maintained – including in the rear – and infotainment comes from the on-board Audio 20 CD multimedia system featuring intuitive touchpad control.

New optional equipment features – more scope for individuality

From September 2017, a series of new optional equipment features for the Marco Polo HORIZON and Marco Polo will offer customers even more opportunity to individualise their vehicles with regard to both style and functionality.

Night Package, available for the Marco Polo HORIZON and Marco Polo: The Night Package transforms the Marco Polo HORIZON and Marco Polo models into highly distinguished travelling companions thanks to the inclusion of black design highlights such as: high-sheen black 18-inch alloy wheels, obsidian black metallic exterior mirror casings, a radiator trim with black louvres and chrome inserts and black tinted rear windows. A special highlight is the pop-up roof in black. The pop-up roof is also available on request in the same colour as the vehicle. In conjunction with the AVANTGARDE Exterior Sports Package or the AMG Line the front bumper trim is also painted in black.

Interior Design Package, available for the Marco Polo HORIZON and Marco Polo: Lugano leather seats in black, or in silk beige as an option in the Marco Polo, give the vehicle interior a particularly luxurious feel. This impression is enhanced by a choice of trim finishes including piano lacquer or wood look. A leather steering wheel and brushed aluminium sports pedals round off the Interior Design Package.

Interior Premium Package, available for the Marco Polo HORIZON: Customers opting for the Interior Premium Package for the Marco Polo HORIZON can choose from three colours of high-quality nappa leather: black, in conjunction with a grey roof liner, or either marron or silk beige with a roof liner in porcelain. A leather-covered instrument panel with decorative stitching and ambient lighting in the cockpit and rear complement the high-end interior.

New seating configuration, available for the Marco Polo HORIZON: The Marco Polo HORIZON is available with a variety of different seating configurations. Hitherto these have ranged from the standard five-seater with three-seater bench/berth in the rear and two swivelling front seats to the option of a seven-seater with three-seater bench/berth in the second rear row and two additional single seats in the first rear row. These are now supplemented by the new option of four single comfort seats in the rear.

Mercedes-Benz Vans bolsters the Marco Polo dealer network and taps into new markets

Beyond the extension of the product portfolio in regard to the Marco Polo HORIZON and Marco Polo, Mercedes-Benz Vans also reinforces its camper van expertise in the dealer network and expands its presence in the international camper van market in 2017.

In January 2016 Mercedes-Benz Vans introduced a specialist camper van service at selected dealerships. At the end of 2016 there were 57 sites with special Marco Polo expertise in Germany. This year will see the addition of seven more, with plans to roll out the scheme across other European countries. Along with specially trained sales staff – the so called Marco Polo Experts – the specialist dealerships have Marco Polo models in their showrooms for demonstration purposes and test drives.

The Marco Polo family also adds its own contribution to the “Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global” growth strategy this year. A right-hand-drive Marco Polo has been launched in Great Britain in May 2017. The Marco Polo ACTIVITY celebrated its market premiere in Australia in June 2017. This is the first time a Marco Polo model from the current model series is available overseas.

Entire Marco Polo family with TÜV test mark for “certified occupant protection”

In an accident scenario defined by TÜV Rhineland in 2015, the Marco Polo was the first camper van to have proven in a crash test, over and beyond the conventional testing regime, how well the occupants are protected from the vehicle’s load as well as the stability of the vehicle’s fitted furniture. In this test, the vehicle structure absorbed all the forces generated in a collision at a speed of 56 km/h without any particular deformation in the interior. The built-in units remained intact and the furniture doors closed. In 2017 the Marco Polo HORIZON and the Marco Polo ACTIVITY have likewise received the “certified occupant protection” test mark from TÜV Rhineland.

Further camper van body and conversion solutions based on Mercedes-Benz vans

From the big Sprinter and compact Vito and V-Class to the small Citan, the entire Mercedes-Benz Vans range is a big hit among leading camper van body and conversion specialists.

At this year’s Caravan Salon Düsseldorf, Mercedes-Benz Vans is showcasing a Grand Canyon S from the body manufacturer specialist HYMER and an Independent from CS-Reisemobile on its stand, both based on a Sprinter with all-wheel drive. With the Sprinter 4×4 as a platform vehicle these camper vans can cope easily on unsurfaced or snow-covered roads. Moreover, the brand bearing the three-pointed star shows how the Citan can be transformed into a fully fledged camper van in next to no time with a conversion solution featuring a sleeping module/kitchen module from VanEssa. The sleeping module as well as the kitchen module can be fastened to the existing lashing eyelets in the luggage compartment in a matter of minutes – and once the holiday is over, the camper van can just as quickly be converted back into a normal city car for everyday use.

A couple of weeks ago the Mercedes-Benz Marco Polo ACTIVITY was launched Down Under. To celebrate this occasion, a special, three-day camping experience started today: Together with Airbnb Mercedes-Benz Vans Australia is giving some lucky adventurers the opportunity to spend a night in a Marco Polo ACTIVITY on Cockatoo Island with a perfect view of Sydney’s landmarks and test the newcomer. People interested in spending a night in the recreational vehicle bearing the Mercedes star could book through airbnb.com from 1 August, 12.00 pm (GMT) for a booking fee of AUD$15. It was booked out within an hour.

 

Got a festival to hit this summer? Can’t be bothered to trudge a load of camping gear across a field? Then you need glamping-on-wheels, otherwise known as the Mercedes Marco Polo.

Named, we think, after everyone’s favourite swimming pool-based tag game, it’s Mercedes’ answer to VW’s infamous hippy van, the California.

Based on the V-Class platform – the Viano and Vito replacement that slots in below a Sprinter – the Marco Polo follows the VW template with slavish devotion, only posher.

It’s a veritable house on wheels. There are two heated, swivelling seats up front for the captain and navigator. A sliding, adjustable rear bench in the back folds down to create a bed. An electric pop-up roof rises to reveal a ‘mezzanine floor’ and second ‘bedroom’. There’s a kitchen with two-hob burner, fridge and sink.

Laid out just like a California – if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, and all that – it’s got enough clever packaging to make you exclaim, “My, what clever packaging”. But Merc has thrown in a smattering of its S-Class-derived tech to trump the VW. There’s Active Parking, Attention Assist to warn against post-festival drowsiness, and optional 360-degree cameras so you don’t back it in to the campfire.

Power comes from any of three four-cylinder turbodiesel engines, ranging from 134bhp and 188bhp. On top models, an ‘over-torque’ function boosts torque to 355lb ft so you, three mates and the kitchen sink can scale Yosemite’s El Capitan with ease.

Where the VW Cali maintains a tradesman-like aesthetic, the Marco Polo looks properly swish inside and out. So good, in fact, we’d feel guilty getting it dirty, or disturbing the sharp lines outside by strapping scraggy old surfboard on top.

You’ll be able to go for a ride in Marco Polo when it goes on sale in July. But only if you live in Germany, as there are currently no plans to bring the glamping wagon to the US.

Via: Top Gear

With the new Marco Polo, Mercedes-Benz is presenting a compact camper van at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf which combines maximum practicality with design appeal and stylishness. The interior impresses with its unrivalled feel-good ambience, outstanding comfort and high quality of appointments reminiscent of an exclusive lounge. At the same time the Marco Polo developed in cooperation with longstanding Mercedes-Benz partner Westfalia convinces with its extraordinarily practical features – from the stowage facilities and seating/sleeping arrangements to the camping equipment for outdoors. The standard specification already sets new standards in the compact camper van segment with respect to perceived quality, homeliness and comfortable practicality.

The new Marco Polo takes its body design from the V-Class, and offers in the interior high-quality materials finished to perfection, a harmonious colour scheme and a modern, timeless furniture design. As a result the new camper van from Mercedes-Benz gives an impression of unexpectedly generous space. Thanks to powerful and efficient engines, a comfortable and dynamic passenger car suspension, exemplary safety, compact exterior dimensions and excellent manoeuvrability, the new Marco Polo is emphatically suitable for long journeys and at the same time for day-to-day and urban motoring. With these advantages it is the ideal vehicle for discerning individualists who wish to combine independence with maximum comfort and day-to-day utility.

The compact camper van is ready any time – for vacation, spontaneous weekend trips out in the nature instead of staying in a hotel, for extended shopping trips with the entire family or even for driving to work. Therefore the Marco Polo offers a maximum of opportunities to be independent, free and spontaneous.

Unrivalled feel-good atmosphere with outstanding practicality

The new Marco Polo combines impressive practicality with exclusive style. The headlining and side panels are in the colour porcelain, whose light tone emphasises the impression of spaciousness. The seats are upholstered in a choice of satin beige Santiago fabric, black Santiago fabric or satin beige Lugano leather. As standard, the floor covering is in a robust, easily cleaned yacht decking look which can be light or dark in colour to contrast with the chosen upholstery colour.
The furniture is in a modern porcelain colour. An area of trim in a black piano-lacquer look contrasts with the light-coloured surface to create a homely ambience. It extends from the kitchenette behind the driver’s seat across the entire width of the cupboards and to the rear end, while in the front it continues into the dashboard. The living area and cockpit are thus blended into a harmonious unit. This inviting stylishness can be rounded off with optional LED ambience lighting along the lower edge of the kitchenette. Only LED lighting is used throughout the interior. Two large main lights, four reading lamps in the living area and two gooseneck lamps beneath the roof allow best illumination and lightness inside the camper van.

The kitchen cupboard module consists of a large, self-closing drawer with extending worktop, two smaller, self-closing drawers which can also be opened when the bed is folded out, and a large stowage compartment with a sliding door. The two gasburners, sink and refrigerator have covers of easily cleaned, impact-resistant glass. Thus the transparency of the glass allows light through the window when the covers are folded upwards. The rear section of the passenger compartment has a large wardrobe with sliding doors, a clothes rail and an illuminated swing-out mirror.

The folding table with a scratch-resistant surface is space-savingly attached to the kitchenette, and can be moved in and out on a sliding rail. It can therefore be perfectly positioned for up to four persons – two on the bench seat and one each on the driver and front passenger seats, which can be rotated by 180 degrees. When folded, the table is in a vertical position next to the bench seat.

The kitchenette is fully equipped with two gasburners, a sink and a compressor refrigerator with a capacity of 40 l and a cooling output of up to minus 20 degrees Celsius. The fresh water tank has a capacity of 38 l, the waste water tank 40 l. Both are in the vehicle interior, where they are protected against frost.

Outstanding seating and sleeping comfort

The two-seater bench in the rear can be repositioned on rails, and provides excellent lateral support thanks to electropneumatically inflatable side bolsters. The backrest is divided into two, and can be individually electrically adjusted on each side. At the touch of a button it can be converted into a single bed within seconds, or into a double bed measuring 2.03 m by 1.13 m. The electropneumatic system automatically recognises whether a seating or sleeping position is required, reconciling the conflicting aims of seating and sleeping comfort. The side bolsters are automatically deflated in the reclining position. When folded out to form a sleeping surface, the bench seat rises to conceal seat belt buckles that would otherwise disturb sleep. The bed extension can also be pivoted upwards to form a comfortable headrest.

There is another bed with unrivalled sleeping comfort under the pop-up roof. This luxury roof bed measuring 2.05 m by 1.13 m consists of a high-quality foam mattress and a slatted frame of special elasticated spring elements offering outstandingly ergonomic sleeping comfort right to the edges. A pro­tective net can be attached to the front edge to safeguard children.

On request the pop-up roof of glass-fibre reinforced plastic (GFRP) with a concertina of opaque, waterproof woven fabric can be equipped with a newly developed, particularly quiet electric drive. Thanks to an innovative scissor-action system, the pop-up height in the rear area is considerably greater than in the previous model, and provides particularly generous legroom. When the bed is not in use the slatted frame can be folded upwards when the roof is up, providing pleasant standing room in the interior.

Other highlights included as standard are an electric vent window on the rear right, black-tinted glass in the rear for protection from prying eyes and heat build-up from solar radiation, and roller blinds in the rear. To darken the interior completely, the Marco Polo also has a curtain for the windscreen and front side windows.

Two camping chairs and a table for use outside offer additional independance. When they are not in use, they are stowed in a bag within the luggage compartment under the bed extension.

For loading and unloading convenience, the new camper van is optionally available with a separately opening rear window in the tailgate. The electric EASY-PACK tailgate is also available as an option.

Exemplary safety and dynamic driving comfort at passenger car level

Numerous active and passive safety systems ensure exemplary safety and a high level of travelling comfort. Standard safety features include windowbags and thorax-pelvis sidebags for the driver and front passenger, as well as Crosswind-Assist and ATTENTION ASSIST, which can warn against inattention and drowsiness. The optionally available Active Parking Assist makes parking the new camper van as easy and convenient as a compact car. Other features available on request are the reversing camera, 360-degree camera, Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assist, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST and the LED Intelligent Light System. Most of these assistance systems are available for the first time in this segment.

The new Marco Polo combines stylish living with the ride comfort and dynamics of a passenger car. Ultra-modern four-cylinder turbodiesel engines in three output variants (100 kW, 120 kW and 140 kW) make for efficient driving pleasure. The Marco Polo 200 CDI develops 100 kW (136 hp) and a maximum torque of 330 Nm. The Marco Polo 220 CDI generates 120 kW (163 hp) and 380 Nm. With fuel consumption of just 6.0 l per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 158 grams per kilometre, the Marco Polo 220 CDI occupies an absolute leading position in the segment.

The top engine variant with 140 kW (190 hp) and a powerful maximum torque of 440 Nm consumes just 6.1 l per 100 km. In the acceleration phases, an additional 10 kW and 40 Nm are available (“over-torque”). As a result, the flagship model briefly develops 150 kW and maximum torque of a full 480 Nm.

The electromechanical power steering included as standard is speed-sensitive, and has a variable steering ratio. This ensures extremely easy slow manoeuvring, great agility in urban traffic and reassuring stability at higher speeds. With a turning circle of 11.8 m, the 5.14 m long camper van is more manoeuvrable than many luxury-class saloon cars. The comfort suspension included as standard also helps to ensure that the Marco Polo drives as comfortably and precisely as a passenger car. And with a height of 1.98 m it is able to enter all normal garages, multi-level car parks, underground garages and carwashes. Which means that the nearest towns can also be conveniently explored while on holiday.

The new Marco Polo can be ordered in Germany from 29 July 2014.

The Viano Marco Polo is a combination of everything you have ever wanted from a camper van and so much more.  The van meets your initial desires, comfort, safety and power but it then goes on to offer you high end features you would expect to see from a Mercedes-Benz vehicle.  Features like an easy-glide sliding door, a lockable valuables compartment, fully equipped kitchen, electropneumatically inflatable seat cushion bolsters, wood look floor and to literally top it off, a roof bed.  What else could you want from a compact luxury home on wheels?  Well, for the earth friendly cross-country drivers, Mercedes installed the Viano with a four-cylinder BlueEFFICIENCY diesel engine with a displacement of 2.15 litres and the V6 with its 3.0 liters with CO2 emissions and fuel consumption at record-breaking low figures.

Viano Marco Polo: big shot among the compact camper vans

The figures alone are testimony to its success: while new registrations of camper vans in Germany increased overall by 18.1 percent in the first six months of 2011, registrations of Mercedes-Benz camper vans rose 24.5 percent. And growth internationally has been equally solid: in the first half of 2011, new camper-van registrations in Europe increased by 10.4 percent to 49,624 units. The compact Mercedes-Benz Viano Marco Polo camper van even managed to comfortably better these excellent figures: sales in the first half of the year rose by 82 percent to some 900 units.

Comfortable and practical: Mercedes-Benz Viano Marco Polo

The concept of the Viano Marco Polo is just right: its dimensions are compact and perfectly suited to everyday use for a camper van, measuring exactly 5.0 m long and 1.9 m wide. With the roof closed it remains under the two-metre height restriction which is important for everyday usage. Cockpit, drive system and suspension are entirely on a par with high-end passenger car standards. The interior with its fully fitted kitchen and cupboards on the left-hand side, the moveable individual-style seats and the rotated front seats have been purpose-designed and honed down to the very last detail. Mercedes-Benz and its experienced conversion partner Westfalia have also come up with numerous refinements, which are only available in a Viano Marco Polo.

Minimal scope for improving the hallmark features

The tried-and-trusted arrangement of the living area in the Viano Marco Polo is a classic, with its spacious fully fitted kitchen and cupboards on the left-hand side, as well as the unique movable seat design with electrically adjustable individual seats and electropneumatically inflatable seat cushion bolsters, leaving minimal scope for improvement.

The fully equipped living accommodation for the Viano Marco Polo is a compelling proposition: pop-up roof (as an option with electrohydraulic EASY UP function), comfort roof bed resting on special flexible spring elements, seat that converts into a bed with electric adjustment and bed extension, wardrobe and roof stowage cupboard along with a drawer in the seat base, kitchen with dual-burner gas stove, compressor-type coolbox and sink as well as stowage compartments, external power socket and charger for the separate on-board battery, hot-air auxiliary heating with timer and temperature control, table, all-round privacy curtains and a valuables compartment – the Viano Marco Polo is ideal as a compact camper van, for impromptu overnight stays as well as for weekend excursions and long holidays.

Viano Marco Polo in detail: well-thought-out fittings and furnishings

You just need to open the easy-glide sliding door to appreciate the special qualities of the Viano Marco Polo as you catch your first glimpse of the living accommodation. The fronts of the furniture sport silver surfaces; the integral decor strip with its burr walnut-look finish takes its cue from the strip in the cockpit. In this camper van, the basic vehicle and the living accommodation, the Viano and the Marco Polo fittings and furnishings form a harmonious whole in terms of style and materials. The surfaces and decor strips with their high-quality look and feel convey the hallmark quality of a Mercedes-Benz.

The seating consists of the two-seater bench with individual seats in the rear, the attachable table and the swivelling front seats. Thanks to the space-saving foot-operated parking brake and joystick-style shift lever in the instrument panel, the seats can be effortlessly swivelled, providing unimpeded access from the cab to the rear. The seat base on the co-passenger seat features a lockable valuables compartment, with a stowage net on the side of the base – just two of the many practical details on the Viano Marco Polo.

The high-quality, homely fittings and furnishings on the Viano Marco Polo rest on a hard-wearing, easy-to-clean foam-backed floor covering. As an option, the floor is available in a wood-look finish, similar to the decking on a luxury yacht. It looks homely yet at the same time exquisite. Additional everyday flexibility comes courtesy of the option of an additional individual seat.

Fully fitted kitchen and cupboards: practical and spacious

The fully fitted kitchen and cupboards do not just provide a visual highlight: in the Viano Marco Polo, the stowage and cutlery drawer can be accessed at any time. Thanks to the roller fronts, the contents of the spacious stowage compartments are conveniently to hand. With a compact camper van like the Viano Marco Polo with its versatile uses it is these kinds of clever details that make all the difference. For instance, plastic clips secure the removable shelves in the cupboard while on the move. One of the many examples of why the sturdy fixtures and fittings do not produce lots of noise even on poorly appointed roads.

The kitchen in the Viano Marco Polo is fully equipped with a dual-burner gas stove, a compressor-type coolbox with insert, and a sink. The 40-litre capacity of the coolbox is sufficient to store more than enough Tuscan delicacies as food for the journey, such as the typical exquisite sausage products. A gas-operated strut lifts the cover on the coolbox and on the stove/sink unit.

The know-how of the experienced camper van manufacturer is reflected in the detail: the raised cover for the cooker/sink unit not only serves as a splash guard; it also includes a fold-down draining board for dishes. And the designers have even thought about a waste bin. A 12 V power socket as well as a clothes hook are fitted in the trim on the roof frame in front of the cupboard. Insect screens on the sliding windows help keep unwelcome guests at bay.

Bench seat: electrically adjustable, electropneumatically inflatable bolsters

The unique bench seat on the Viano Marco Polo is mounted on rails so it can be moved. The two electrically adjustable individual seats in the bench come with electropneumatically inflatable seat cushion bolsters. They improve seating comfort noticeably, provide lateral support while on the move and a comfortable flat surface at the destination once deflated. ISOFIX anchorage points can be used to secure child seats. A large drawer under the bench seat as well as the roof stowage compartment in the rear can be used to stow luggage – every last centimetre in the Viano Marco Polo is used for the benefit of those on-board.

This also applies to the table, which is stowed away in the sliding door trim while on the move. Once the vehicle has been parked, the tabletop can be slotted into a rail on the front of the kitchen, the foot into a bench seat rail – and away you go.

The bench seat converts into a bed at the push of a button

As soon as it is time to turn in for the night, an electric motor effortlessly transforms the two individual seats into a double bed at the push of a button – an unrivalled feature. Deflating the seat cushion bolsters creates a comfortable, perfectly flat bed that is two metres long. Here too is another clever feature: the bench seat is raised automatically a few centimetres as it is being folded out, preventing the belt buckles from uncomfortably poking out into the bed in the Viano Marco Polo.

Comfort is a priority with any Mercedes-Benz, and for a camper van in particular: the bed extension which forms the head section above the luggage compartment on the Viano Marco Polo can be raised in stages using a loop and a support. This feature further improves the already high level of comfort.

Additional luggage can be stowed under the bed extension – or those little souvenirs from Tuscany. Whether it is two cases of good Chianti or even a fine Brunello di Montalcino, maybe a few terracotta objects from Impruneta, there is more than enough room in the Viano Marco Polo. If you need to transport bulky items during everyday use, the users can simply position the bed extension vertically. The cargo section can simply be enlarged by moving the bench seat forward. Removing the bench seat transforms the camper van into a fully fledged van. Load securing lugs are testimony to the vehicle’s credentials as a cargo carrier.

Open stowage compartments in the roof-mounted cupboard and the laundry cupboard can be used to stow small items of luggage in the rear. Other practical features include the connection for an outside shower, the power socket in the luggage compartment as well as a collapsible shopping crate together with bracket – ideal for shopping in the market.

Roof bed: no different from your bed at home

The pop-up roof on the Viano Marco Polo fits seamlessly onto the body. When closed it is securely fastened using two locks on the left and right. It opens manually using a gas-strut mechanism or optionally at the push of a button using the highly convenient electropneumatic feature. Integrated guide rails keep the roof bellows section taut and automatically retract the bellows section as the roof closes.

There is another bed under the roof, also around two metres long. A look under the foam mattress reveals a combination of slatted base and a flexible spring system, making for the sort of night’s sleep you get at home. A positive ventilation outlet at the front and two other outlets at the side let air and light into the upper deck. A protective net prevents children or objects from falling out.

On-board systems: high-quality, efficient and fully complete

The efficiency of the Viano Marco Polo is typical of the brand down to the very last detail: the two LED lights, each with five individual bulbs inside, in the rear provide a bright light as soon as they are switched on, illuminate the interior fully and only consume minimal power – an important factor when venturing off the beaten track where facilities such as mains power are not available. Additional reading lights in the rear make reading a pleasure. Two reading lights above the bed extension as well as two lights near to the roof bed round off the lighting.

In any case, the Viano Marco Polo comes with extremely reliable on-board systems, just as you would expect. A powerful auxiliary gel battery powers the vehicle’s electrical system. The camper van also comes with a 230 V external power socket and a battery charger. The fresh-water tank has a capacity of 36 litres, the waste-water tank 32 litres. Both tanks are mounted in the interior of the vehicle to protect them against frost. Standard equipment also includes a fuel-powered auxiliary heater including timer and temperature control. The powerful heating capacity of 2.5 kW maintains the living area pleasantly warm even on cold days.

The camper van’s gas supply is limited to a gas bottle for the stove. When it needs replacing, the bottle can be accessed by swinging out the laundry compartment – one of the many clever ideas in the Viano Marco Polo. Other ingenious touches include the standard-fit power socket at the rear for a repeater lamp on the optional bicycle rack.

Passengers control and manage all the key functions on the clearly laid out control panel in the centre console on the Viano Marco Polo. The panel displays the interior and exterior temperature, battery capacity, operating status of the coolbox and the level of the water tanks. The control unit for the auxiliary heating is also integrated.

Fresh look emphasises the character of the Viano Marco Polo

Seen purely from the outside, the current generation of the Mercedes-Benz Viano Marco Polo can be recognised with its striking headlamps – picking up on the style of the current Mercedes-Benz passenger cars – featuring powerful reflector headlamps, integrated daytime running lamps, and a radiator grille with three silver painted louvres with chrome surrounds. Bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lamps, Add-Light System and headlamp washer system are also available as an option. Single-piece lamps with black glass-look mouldings and the deep-set bumper catch the eye at the rear.

The exterior mirrors with integral indicator lamps provide a large field of vision. Wide-angle sections are integrated in the mirrors on both sides – a major improvement to safety not just while manoeuvring in Italian old towns where space is tight.

For the 2012 model year, Mercedes-Benz is freshening up the looks with the new “hibiscus red” and “dolomite brown metallic” paint finishes.

The cockpit: comfortable and user-friendly

From the driver’s and co-driver’s view from the cockpit, the Viano Marco Polo instantly appeals to the senses as a camper van. The rim of the multifunction steering wheel and the shift lever knob are trimmed in nappa leather which is pleasant to the touch. The driver operates the standard-fit trip computer via the buttons on the steering wheel. The trip computer provides information on parameters such as average fuel consumption and range. The instrument cluster with its white scale illumination is a new feature for the 2012 model year. The precise, easy-to-read instruments resemble a chronometer. All the pushbuttons are arranged clearly at the top of the centre console.

The cockpit boasts high-grade Softtouch surfaces. A decor strip emphasises the masterfully crafted character of the Viano Marco Polo. As standard, the decor strip is finished in a brown burr-walnut-wood look and is optionally available in a black burr-walnut-wood look. The comfort seats come as standard with seat angle and armrest adjustment. A host of stowage facilities and drinks holders are ideal for storing snacks and refreshments for the journey.

Thanks to extensive insulation measures, passengers enjoy low noise levels. Amenities such as air-conditioning, electrically adjustable heated exterior mirrors, electric power windows, height and angle-adjustable steering column, fog lamps and remote-control central locking all come as standard.

Clean and economical with BlueEFFICIENCY technology

A holiday close to nature without harming the environment in a camper van need not be a contradiction with Mercedes-Benz. Supreme efficiency for low emissions and fuel consumption lie at the heart of the current generation of the Viano Marco Polo. All model versions meet the EU 5 emissions standard. The drive system is not only outstandingly environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient: it also accelerates with consummate ease and boasts outstanding refinement.

The four-cylinder diesel engines with a displacement of 2.15 litres and the V6 with its 3.0 litres are at the heart of the line-up. CO2 emissions and fuel consumption achieve record-breaking low figures. Behind these figures is not just the advanced engine technology in the Mercedes-Benz four and six-cylinder engines including particulate filter, but also the BlueEFFICIENCY technology, which comes as standard on all Viano models. BlueEFFICIENCY includes on-demand ancillary units, an ECO start/stop function, gearshift display, ECO power-steering pump, low-rolling resistance tyres and – a new feature – generator management. The generator is designed to charge during braking and is governed during acceleration.

A badge below the A-pillar is testimony to BlueEFFICIENCY. Mercedes-Benz is setting new standards with this technology: no other manufacturer adopts so many measures to reduce fuel consumption as part of its standard specification. Just what you are looking for when touring through the kind of unspoilt landscapes you find in Tuscany.

Powerful, smooth-running diesel engines with four and six cylinders

The smooth-running four-cylinder diesel engines in the Viano Marco Polo cover output ranges from 100 kW (136 hp) to 120 kW (163 hp). In addition to output, torque of 310 Nm and 360 Nm respectively is also formidable. Maximum torque is already available at very low engine speeds of 1400 rpm or 1600 rpm respectively. All of which ensures good performance, smooth running and low fuel consumption. NEDC fuel consumption in the two output classes Viano CDI 2.0 and 2.2 Marco Polo is just 7.2-7.4 l/100 km.

The unique V6 CDI in the Viano CDI 3.0 Marco Polo with four overhead camshafts and aluminium crankcase delivers effortlessly superior performance coupled with superb refinement thanks to output of 165 kW (224 hp) and impressive torque of 440 Nm. The standard-fit automatic transmission teams up seamlessly with this powerplant for those who appreciate the finer things in life. The result is surprisingly low NEDC fuel consumption of 8.5-8.6 l/100 km. All four and six-cylinder diesel engines come with balancer shafts, which together with the dual-mass flywheel, guarantee superb smooth running.

The Viano 3.5 Marco Polo is available for customers who want even more, a 3.5-litre petrol engine developing 190 kW (258 hp) of output. This unit is also fitted with an automatic transmission as standard.

ECO Gear manual transmission reduces engine speed, fuel consumption and emissions

The six-speed ECO Gear manual transmission plays a large part in the good acceleration and low fuel consumption of the Viano Marco Polo. Fitted as standard with the four-cylinder diesel engines, its large gear-ratio spread reduces emissions and fuel consumption. The transmission guarantees acceleration when moving off as well as nonchalant coasting with low engine speeds and low emissions, not to mention low fuel consumption at high cruising speed.

Suspension: ride comfort, driving pleasure and handling safety

The combination of ride comfort, driving pleasure and handling safety is the hallmark of the agile suspension with rear-wheel drive on the Viano Marco Polo. It not only handles extremely safely and is manoeuvrable, but is also very comfortable. Suspension, damping and road and tyre vibration are compelling even when venturing off the beaten track.

Precise, sensitive steering comes into its own on the winding side roads of Tuscany. Overall the compact camper van always handles precisely, predictably and safely. At the same time it sets the benchmark for comfort, road and tyre vibration, and noise levels.

Whether on gravel or snow: the Viano Marco Polo with the all-wheel drive system 4MATIC is available to meet the most discerning requirements. The electronic traction system 4ETS automatically brakes the spinning wheels individually, increasing the drive torque at the wheels with sufficient traction. The all-wheel drive system 4MATIC is always combined with an automatic transmission. The result is extremely comfortable all-wheel drive even when the going gets tough: accelerate, steer and brake is all you need to do at the wheel of a Viano 4MATIC Marco Polo, the technology will look after everything else.

The exemplary safety features on the Viano Marco Polo

The Mercedes-Benz Viano Marco Polo boasts an unrivalled range of safety and assistance systems as standard. The Electronic Stability Program ADAPTIVE ESP® with anti-lock braking system ABS, acceleration skid control system ASR and Brake Assist BAS features detection of load and weight distribution. It is compulsory for all models. The brake lights automatically start flashing during emergency braking; the hazard warning lamps automatically come on once the vehicle has come to a stop.

As an option, start-off assist AAS, an automatic tyre pressure monitoring system, the parking and manoeuvring aid PARKTRONIC as well as a reversing camera enhance the extensive comfort and safety features on the Viano Marco Polo.

Versatility itself: the Mercedes-Benz Viano Fun

When flexibility is the name of the game, the Viano Fun truly comes into its own. This vehicle provides an ideal combination of everyday and leisure characteristics – a family or business vehicle that can instantly be turned into a weekend home on wheels. The outstanding versatility of the Viano Fun is presaged in the availability of both compact and long variants. The compact version comfortably houses five occupants. The front has swivelling comfort seats for the driver and front-seat passenger, with a fold-out table and seat bench for three passengers in the rear, which can be slid along, removed or used as a highly comfortable bunk. A cushioned bed extension provides valuable added sleeping space.

The long version of the Viano Fun has an additional bench seat in the middle, and is also fitted with one additional individual seat as standard equipment, or two as an option. The individual seats can be slid along a rail system, either in or against the direction of travel, and can also be removed using the convenient grips provided for this purpose.

The optional pop-up roof, in the Easy-Up electrohydraulic version if desired, makes the Viano Fun more like a mobile home. This option offers generous standing space, and a comfortable roof bed can also be added for further sleeping accommodation if required.

The “Comfort Fun” equipment package makes the Viano Fun even more comfortable to drive. Ambient lighting, cockpit with soft-touch interface and a multifunction steering wheel with trip computer, electrically operated pop-out windows for the second rear seat row, fabric cushioning in the side wall panelling, an additional heat exchanger in the rear plus a raft of other detailed features help to create a convivial on-board atmosphere.

Service that knows no limits: Europe-wide service package at no extra charge

Anyone taking a Mercedes-Benz camper van on holiday is never alone: with over 2600 service centres throughout Europe, Mercedes-Benz offers a close-knit network of workshops for vans. In an emergency the free Service 24h hotline will arrange assistance in no time at all, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. Should your Viano Marco Polo actually break down, Mercedes-Benz MobilityGo will keep you mobile: the free guaranteed mobility package includes rapid on-the-spot breakdown assistance as well as the reimbursement of taxi fares, and the provision of a replacement vehicle if the repair is likely to take more than two hours. MobilityGo is valid for all Viano models for the first two years following initial registration with no limit on mileage.