The all-new Mercedes Vito Taxi officially launches in London today.

Offering space and ‘refined comfort’ for the driver and up to six passengers, as well as being fully-wheelchair accessible, the new Vito Taxi was successfully tested by real ‘cabbies’ at VanExperience Live in June 2016, and most recently as part of the marketing campaign around the city.

The London edition of the Vito uses a low-emission 114CDI Euro 6 engine, offering 136 hp. In conjunction, the fuel-efficient 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic gearbox also comes as standard. Controlled via a steering column-mounted lever, this transmission reduces driver fatigue by offering easy gear selection and smooth gear changes. The London-specific model comes with a Compact body length and incorporates a rear steering axle that allows it to meet the famous 25ft turning circle rule as prescribed by the Public Carriage Office so it can execute a U-turn in London’s congested streets.

Standard equipment also includes fuel-saving BlueEFFICIENCY measures like the engine Start/Stop function, air conditioning for the driver and passengers, electric folding mirrors, electrically operated sliding doors on both sides and an electrical nearside and off-side step.

The new Vito Taxi comes with a three-year, unlimited mileage manufacturer’s warranty and MobiloVan back-up, which includes free, round-the-clock emergency roadside assistance.

Steve Bridge, Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Vans UK, commented: “After a significant period of testing, I’m delighted to be announcing the start of sales today – I know there has been a bit of a waiting period while we put the new Taxi through its paces and I thank London’s cabbies for their patience. The new Vito Taxi is quite simply a game-changer in every sense of the word and I’m very proud that our black cab helps to keep businesses moving – both the businesses of the taxi drivers, and the businesses of their clients. I look forward to hearing the feedback of how it is improving the fuel-economy and comfort for our hard-working professional drivers.”

The new Vito Taxi London is supplied exclusively via Mercedes-Benz Dealer S & B Commercials at Welham Green, Hertfordshire. Potential cabbies can get behind the wheel from £168 a week with nil deposit, business users only and on a 48 month Agility agreement and a £15,900 optional final payment. Based on a Vito London Taxi 114CDI Compact, mileage and damage charges may apply.