The little-known Mercedes-Benz Viano people-mover has become more of a talking point with the fitment of a potent new turbo-diesel V6 engine in place of the previous four-cylinder unit.
Based on the Vito van, the single-model Viano luxury MPV comes standard with seven seats but can be ordered with eight.
It costs a considerable $74,990, which places it up against the higher-end versions of the Toyota Tarago, VW Multivan and Chrysler Grand Voyager.
The new V6 diesel has a healthy 165kW and 440Nm, which allows it to dash from 0-100km/h in 9.1 seconds.

Viano
Released: July 2005
Ended: March 2011
Family Tree: VianoMercedes launched the Viano in Australia in 2005 as a niche luxury people-mover aimed at high-end hotels and large families.
It was available with a 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel for $65,000 or a 3.7-litre petrol V6 with 170kW, with both running a five-speed automatic transmission.
Mercedes upgraded the Viano after one year with some more equipment including front and side airbags, parking sensors and rain-sensing wipers.
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