LAST year Mercedes-Benz Vans celebrated its best year in the UK with 30,257 vehicles registered - a 21 per cent increase on 2012 and also beating 2007's previous record.

One of its biggest sellers is the Vito mid-size load-shfter, the latest version of which has just been revealed.

From skilled crafts and trades to retail, service providers, shuttle services and taxis the new Vito is a versatile piece of kit.

With up to 1,369kg cargo capacity, it has the highest payload in its class and the Vito Crew featuring a crewcab combines the advantages of a panel van with those of a crewbus or courtesy vehicle.

There are two versions available: the Vito Tourer Pro and the premium Vito Tourer Select. The Tourer can be tailored to accommodate all types of passenger transport.

For the first time the Vito is being offered with front-wheel drive. Mercedes says that when empty or carrying only a light load, front-wheel drive offers better traction and reduces fuel consumption.

It is fitted with a compact four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1.6 litres and which is available in two power ratings, the Vito 109 CDI with 88bhp and the Vito 111 CDI with 114bhp.

For shifting heavy loads or towing a trailer more power is needed so Mercedes is continuing with the rear-wheel drive Vito which comes with a 2.15-litre engine and a choice of three power levels the 114 CDI, 136bhp, 116 CDI, 163bhp and Vito 119 BlueTEC at 190bhp.

Six-speed manual transmissions come as standard on the lower powered engines. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with torque converter is optional for the Vito 114 CDI and Vito 116 CDI and standard equipment on the Vito 119 BlueTEC

Whatever engine the new Vito has long service intervals of up to 25,000 miles or two years, and all models have had their fuel consumption reduced from the previous Vito range.

The suspension has also been improved with less taught springs and more sensitive shock absorbers.

All versions are 140 millimetres longer than the preceding Vito, mainly because of the extended front end to help protect pedestrians.

The maximum vehicle height is 1,910 mm depending on the model. As a result the Vito is below the two-metre mark and can fit into standard multi-storey/underground car parks and automatic car washes.

The news Vito range will go on sale in March next year. UK prices have yet to be announced.