Viking releases the new Designer Series refresh this week, retitled “D3”, and the changes are very welcome indeed. While the new series name might be a bit cheesy, it does clear up the confusion consumers had between the previous Designer Series and the Designer Series before that, which were two completely different price points.
Lot’s of new features to talk about. The products all got a new and innovative face-lift, with customizable handles and knobs which are very elegant and a nice touch.
The new Viking D3 Series cooktops feature a large center burner, continuous grates, permanently sealed burners, and the new die-cast customizable knobs. While we don’t yet know the pricing of these units, we do know they will be priced significantly less than Viking Professional product, making them extremely attractive units against second-tier brands like Thermador and Bosch.
The new Viking D3 30″ Dual-Fuel Range now features a oblong burner in the center, perfect for properly heating a griddle attachment and impressive for this size range. It also features Viking’s new die cast customizable knobs and a customizable oven pull. You have the ability to choose between more than a handful of colors and wood species. They even sell unfinished Maple center pieces that can be sent to your cabinet manufacturer and finished to match your cabinetry. Very nice option.
They’ve simplified their Designer series refrigeration line to only the 36″ French Door Refrigerator. I don’t know if they plan to come out with a few additional models in the future. Their plans are currently unclear.
The new D3 Built-In Oven is redesigned and truly imposing. The exterior redesign, in my opinion, makes this oven. The best part is, the interior function is virtually the same quality you find in their more expensive Professional counter-parts. It includes a 10-pass electric broiler with heat reflector. Glide-out oven racks. And of course, a concealed bake element. The new knobs and pull really compliment the new oven design and when combined with their wood trim pieces it can definitely be a show-stopper.
Overall, the new Viking D3 Series looks to shake up the market for mid-high end appliances and takes direct aim at Thermador, Bosch, and even to some extents Electrolux. Pricing and availability details to follow shortly.