Mercedes-Benz Presents Crossover Concept at Hanover

2004 A new crossover concept from Mercedes-Benz will gauge the level of interest in vehicles that depart from the beaten track and take new roads into the future at this year's International Commercial Vehicle Fair (IAA) in Hanover at the end of September.

Combining American styling with European dimensions and dynamism, the Activity study combines the different automobile cultures in Europe and America and is based on the Mercedes-Benz Vito van and Viano MPV.

The concept vehicle combines professional, day-to-day and recreational driving - ideal for sporty, active people who require a spacious and practical, multifunctional vehicle.

At the same time the study underlines the variety and versatility of the Viano. The emotional design takes up and continues the dynamic line of the Viano.

The prominent front apron is reminiscent of an off-roader, for example, expressing an inclination towards outdoor activities in the same way as the structured aluminium sideliners and door panels.

Rear-seat passengers enjoy convenient access via wide sliding doors - an innovation in the pick-up segment.

The same applies to the variability of the loading platform: while the overall length is limited to the city-compatible 4.99 m of the longer-body Viano for normal operations, an extending section stretches the Viano Activity to 5.70 m when required.

The interior of the Viano Activity combines spaciousness with practicality and style.

There is generous interior space, and style is provided by the lava red leather seat upholstery, which emphasises the quality of natural materials in the Viano Activity.

The glass sliding roof and above all the pivoting rear cab wall with a window lend themselves to indoor and outdoor motoring activities.

The dynamism of the study is underlined by a smooth-running V6 petrol engine with 160 kW, plus 19-inch wheels and wide-base tyres.