Mercedes Benz Viano mid wheelchair user position rear ramp WAV from Southern Mobility Vehicles

The flat floor wheelchair accessible vehicle conversion Viano with a rear internal lift is quite simply a pleasure to be in as a wheelchair user. The driver and passengers too are well catered for and quite spoiled too. Why? Because it is a Mercedes Benz is the simple answer.

The Viano comes in a plethora of variations, with the die-hard Mercedes fans loving the larger engines. These large capacity engines aren’t as sought after these days, but petrolheads would probably disagree, and who doesn’t like a little power under their right foot. A purist may argue that the underfoot pedal power on offer can be a lifesaver when required, but of course, no one wants to put that to the test.

If well-maintained, the long life expectancy of a larger motor means you are looking at a lifetime WAV that should retain its residual value. And, why not spoil yourself in a lovely WAV, especially when they aren’t prolific in the marketplace. Newer versions tend to have smaller engines, although the power they give the engine build quality is remarkable.

The beauty of a high specification model is the specification and comfort level tweaks that make all the difference for wheelchair users. Apart from the increased comfort level, the captain’s seats in the second row mean wheelchair passengers can face their travelling companions, and carers have easier access to their charge if need be.

The ride in a luxury WAV makes all the difference to all the occupants. Often, the wheelchair passenger can get a raw deal in vehicles converted to accommodate wheelchair passengers, but this is not so in the Viano. The smoothing of the road and the low road noise because of build quality will always make that tangible difference to all who travel in a Mercedes Viano. As this is a flat floor conversion, the advantage is that the vehicle retains the original floor with the flexibility on offer with the seating. Being the original build, you get more Mercedes. Of course, wheelchair user height in their wheelchair comes into play, so check entry and internal dimensions before you commit to buying. Feel free to call us and ask to check suitability for your individual needs.

In a flat floor conversion, there are often a variety of positions a wheelchair user can be settled in depending on where the wheelchair restraint securement system is located in the WAV. Typically, the wheelchair will be on the nearside rear or in the nearside mid vehicle position; this often makes wheelchair access easier as they travel in a straight line onto the lift and into the vehicle. As always, with flat floor WAV conversions, seats also tend to be higher in number so that this mobility vehicle can suit families well.

The Mercedes Benz Viano was the predecessor to the much loved V-Class, and it is easy to see the heritage and how it is revered in the WAV industry in much the same way as they are loved in its unconverted form. The level of luxury which spills across for wheelchair users is often lost in many other wheelchair accessible vehicle conversions. Of course, the Viano’s origins lie in the Vito, but who’d know when you are inside enjoying the experience.

The Viano is available in both rear and four-wheel drive and is available in three lengths, two wheelbases, and a choice of four different petrol and diesel engines. Add to this the possibility of two much rarer in the WAV industry tuned versions, all of which are coupled to either a six-speed manual or five-speed TouchShift automatic transmission.

SMV conclusion: Low road-noise, front or rear-facing row two seats depending on specification, a quality ride plus easy access via a rear internal lift makes for a robust all-round combination of lacking features in many WAVs. A sizeable engine will please the minority but with vehicles sometimes criticised for being a little bland, what’s not to like for the individual seeking something they can love.

Why not give Southern Mobility Vehicles a call if this WAV isn’t quite right for you. We are independent WAV advisors, so you will get the best of all worlds, whatever your wheelchair access needs are. Whether you are looking for a new Motability WAV, a Nearly New Motability WAV, short term hire, or an outright purchase, we are the WAV dealer to call first. We are here to help; we know how hard it is to be confident you are buying the right mobility vehicle for your needs.