Hill-Start Assist an integral part of the ESP® system, makes it easier to start off on uphill slopes:

after the brake pedal is released, the brake pressure is maintained for approximately two seconds, allowing the driver to move their foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator without having to worry about the vehicle starting to roll. Start-off Assist is activated on uphill slopes of approx. 4% or steeper. It is not activated when starting off on the flat or on a downhill slope.

This practical aid makes light work of pulling away on steep slopes in the Vito.