Mercedes-Benz Vito vs Ford Transit Custom
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Vans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mercedes-Benz Vito starts from $63,000 before on-road costs, while the Ford Transit Custom opens at $62,990. That makes the Ford Transit Custom the more affordable entry point by $10.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $69,300 and $69,289 respectively.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mercedes-Benz Vito and Ford Transit Custom hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mercedes-Benz Vito packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the Ford Transit Custom.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 4 in the Mercedes-Benz Vito and 4 in the Ford Transit Custom.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Ford Transit Custom counters with Apple CarPlay that the Mercedes-Benz Vito does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
Detailed powertrain specifications are not yet available for both models.
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz Vito measures 5,140mm long on a 3,200mm wheelbase, 165mm longer than the Ford Transit Custom at 4,975mm (3,300mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Ford Transit Custom generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 6000L in the Mercedes-Benz Vito and 6800L in the Ford Transit Custom, giving the Ford Transit Custom a 800L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.9m to 11.1m
Based on 11.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.9m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 200,000km (Mercedes-Benz Vito) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Ford Transit Custom). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz Vito if: You or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Ford Transit Custom if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Ford's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Ford Transit Custom takes 2 of 2 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Ford Transit Custom has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mercedes-Benz Vito and Ford Transit Custom?
The Ford Transit Custom is the cheapest at $62,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Mercedes-Benz Vito by $10.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Ford Transit Custom uses the least fuel at 7.8L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mercedes-Benz Vito and Ford Transit Custom all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Ford Transit Custom has the largest boot at 6800L.
Which can tow the most?
The Ford Transit Custom has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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