Mercedes Vans

Mercedes Vans quality

Mercedes vans have become synonymous with quality, reliability, and innovation in the commercial vehicle industry. From compact city runners to spacious cargo haulers, Mercedes-Benz offers a diverse range of vans to meet various business needs. These vehicles are not just about transportation; they represent a commitment to excellence in engineering and design, making them a top choice for businesses and individuals alike.

This article takes a closer look at the latest Mercedes vans models and their standout features. We'll explore the compact Citan, the versatile Vito, and the legendary Sprinter, including the cutting-edge eSprinter. Whether you're considering van leasing, van finance, or looking for Mercedes vans for sale, this guide will help you understand the options available in the Mercedes-Benz van lineup. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of what makes these vehicles stand out in the competitive commercial van market.

Mercedes-Benz Citan: The Compact Powerhouse

The Mercedes-Benz Citan stands out as a compact powerhouse in the commercial van market, offering a blend of efficiency, versatility, and Mercedes-Benz quality. This small van, based on the Renault Kangoo platform, has been significantly enhanced by Mercedes-Benz to deliver the driving characteristics expected from their commercial line-up.

Key Features and Specifications

The Citan comes in various sizes and configurations to suit different business needs. The payload capability ranges from 490kg for the Mercedes Vans Compact model to 810kg for the Extra-long version. All models except the Compact offer a sliding side door and asymmetric rear, side-hinged doors with a 180-degree opening angle. The loading length extends up to 2137mm, with a consistent loading height of 1258mm across all variants.

Under the hood, the Citan offers a range of engine options:

Diesel engines (badged CDI):

108 CDI: 75 BHP

109 CDI: 90 BHP

111 CDI: 110 BHP

Petrol engine:

112: 1.2-liter turbocharged engine with 114 BHP

The 108 and 109 CDI engines come with five-speed manual transmissions, while the 111 CDI and 112 petrol engines feature 6-speed gearboxes. An automatic transmission option was introduced in 2016 for the 112 petrol model.

To maximize fuel efficiency, a BlueEfficiency package is available, which includes a start/stop function and battery alternator management. This package improves fuel consumption and reduces CO2 emissions by around 7g/km. Diesel models boast an impressive official combined consumption figure ranging from 56.5mpg to 65.7mpg.

Electric eCitan Option

Mercedes vans  has expanded the Citan range to include the eCitan, an all-electric version that shares its powertrain with the Renault Kangoo E-Tech and Nissan Townstar EV. The eCitan features a 121bhp electric motor producing 181lb ft of torque, making it nearly as potent as the most powerful diesel engine in the regular Citan lineup.

Key features of the eCitan include:

45kWh battery capacity

Up to 174 miles of range on a full charge

80% charge in just 38 minutes

Available in regular and long-wheelbase versions

The eCitan maintains the same load volumes as its conventional counterparts, offering 2.9m3 for the regular van and up to 3.6m3 for long-wheelbase models.

Ideal Use Cases

The Mercedes vans  Citan, with its compact size and versatile configurations, is well-suited for various business applications:

Urban deliveries: Its compact size makes it ideal for navigating tight city streets and finding parking in congested areas.

Service businesses: Plumbers, electricians, and other service professionals can benefit from its spacious cargo area and comfortable cabin.

Courier services: The Citan's fuel efficiency and payload capacity make it an excellent choice for last-mile deliveries and express courier services.

Small businesses: Its versatility allows it to adapt to various small business needs, from florists to caterers.

Eco-conscious companies: The eCitan option provides an environmentally friendly solution for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Versatile Vito: Medium-Sized Excellence

The Mercedes-Benz Vito stands out as a versatile medium-sized van, offering a range of options to suit various business needs. This van has established itself as a reliable workhorse in the commercial vehicle market, combining Mercedes' renowned quality with practical features.

Vito Panel Van vs Crew Van

The Vito comes in two main configurations: the panel van and the crew van. The panel van is designed for maximum cargo space, offering volumes of 6.0 or 6.6 cubic meters depending on the model. This makes it competitive with the best medium-sized vans available in the market.

For businesses needing to transport both goods and people, the crew van configuration provides a second row of seats while still offering substantial cargo space. The crew van variants can accommodate 3.6 or 4.1 cubic meters of cargo, striking a balance between passenger comfort and load capacity.

Both panel and crew van versions are available in Progressive and Premium trim levels, with the Mercedes Vans Premium trim also offering a Night Edition variant. All Vito models now boast a gross vehicle weight of 3.0t, which has increased their payload capability, making them even more suitable for demanding commercial tasks.

eVito: The Electric Alternative

Mercedes-Benz has expanded its Vito range to include the eVito, an all-electric version that caters to businesses looking for eco-friendly transport solutions. The eVito was the first full production 100% electric van from Mercedes to go on sale in the UK, and also the first medium-sized electric van of any kind to become available in the country.

The eVito replaces the diesel engine with an electric motor powered by battery packs mounted below the load floor. This configuration ensures zero emissions during operation, making it suitable for ultra-low emission zones and exempt from charges like the London Congestion Charge. Importantly, this electrification has been achieved without compromising load space.

Key features of the eVito include:

A range of up to 162 miles on a full charge

80kW maximum charging speed, allowing a 10-80% charge in about 35 minutes

A maximum payload of 882kg (though this may affect the range)

Performance and Efficiency

The Mercedes Vans Vito offers a range of diesel engines to suit different needs, all based on a 2.0-liter unit with varying power outputs. The options include:

136hp

163hp

190hp

The most powerful version, badged as the 119, comes standard with a nine-speed automatic gearbox, providing smooth and efficient power delivery. For most users, the 163hp (116) variant should provide ample power for typical commercial use.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Vito performs reasonably well. The best performer is the 114 CDI manual, achieving 38.7mpg combined, while the automatic version manages 38.2mpg. The mid-range 116 CDI diesel offers 37.6mpg, and the top-tier 119 CDI engine provides 36.7mpg in official WLTP tests.

The Vito's driving characteristics have been refined over the years, offering a well-balanced suspension that provides good long-distance comfort while maintaining stability in corners. This allows for efficient progress on various road types, making it a versatile choice for businesses operating in diverse environments.

Sprinter: The Large Van Legend

The Mercedes Vans  Sprinter has long been a cornerstone in the commercial van market, known for its versatility, reliability, and cutting-edge features. This large van continues to set industry standards with its diverse configurations, electric innovation, and advanced safety technologies.

Diverse Configurations

The Sprinter offers a wide range of configurations to suit various business needs. It comes in multiple sizes and layouts, allowing businesses to choose the perfect van for their specific requirements. The van's spacious interior provides ample cargo space, making it ideal for businesses that need to transport large volumes of goods or equipment.

One of the Sprinter's key strengths is its adaptability. It can be equipped as a mobile workshop or a spacious delivery van, demonstrating its versatility across different industries. This flexibility has contributed to the Sprinter's legendary status in the commercial vehicle sector.

eSprinter: Leading the Electric Revolution

Mercedes-Benz has taken a significant leap forward with the introduction of the eSprinter, an all-electric version of this iconic van. The 2024 eSprinter represents a major advancement over its 2020 predecessor, addressing previous limitations and setting new benchmarks in the electric van market.

Key features of the eSprinter include:

Impressive Range: With a massive 113kWh battery, the eSprinter boasts an official maximum range of 271 miles, placing it at the top of its class.

Power Options: UK buyers can choose between 136hp and 204hp motor configurations.

Rapid Charging: The 113kWh battery supports up to 115kW charging, enabling a 10-80% charge in just 42 minutes.

Preserved Cargo Space: The electrification has been achieved without compromising load capacity.

However, it's important to note that the large battery increases the van's weight. To maintain a practical payload, Mercedes has classified all 113kWh versions of the eSprinter as having a 4.25-ton gross vehicle weight, which requires a specific driving license for operation.

Advanced Safety and Technology

The Mercedes Vans Sprinter, including its electric counterpart, comes equipped with a host of advanced safety features and cutting-edge technology. These innovations not only enhance driver and passenger safety but also improve overall efficiency and ease of use.

Some notable safety and technology features include:

Active Brake Assist

Active Lane Keeping Assist

ATTENTION ASSIST®

Rear-view camera display

Multimedia touch-screen control

The van also incorporates Mercedes me connect, a system that links drivers, vehicles, and managers, enabling businesses to optimize their operations and push their productivity further.

The Sprinter's cabin has seen significant improvements, featuring a sophisticated 10.25-inch touchscreen with the latest Mercedes MBUX operating system. This system offers wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as over-the-air updates, keeping the van's technology current.

With its diverse configurations, electric innovation, and advanced safety and technology features, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter continues to uphold its status as a large van legend, setting new standards in the commercial vehicle industry.

Conclusion

Mercedes-Benz vans have a strong influence on the commercial vehicle market, offering a range of options to suit various business needs. From the compact Citan to the versatile Vito and the legendary Sprinter, each model brings its own strengths to the table. These vans showcase Mercedes' commitment to quality, innovation, and adaptability, making them top choices for businesses looking to boost their operations.

The introduction of electric versions like the eCitan, eVito, and eSprinter shows Mercedes' dedication to keep up with changing market demands and environmental concerns. This move towards electrification, combined with advanced safety features and cutting-edge technology, puts Mercedes vans at the forefront of the industry. As the commercial vehicle landscape keeps evolving, Mercedes-Benz is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence and meet the diverse needs of businesses worldwide.

FAQs

What is the luxury van model from Mercedes Vans called?

The luxury van from Mercedes-Benz is known for going the extra mile.

How much does a new Mercedes-Benz van cost?

Prices for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter range from $66,762 to $118,690. This range includes various body types such as Van, People Mover, Single Cab, and Dual Cab.

What are the different types of vans available in the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter lineup?

The latest Mercedes-Benz Sprinter lineup includes several models:

Sprinter Cargo Van

Sprinter Crew Van

Sprinter Passenger Van

Sprinter Cab Chassis

What are the different van models offered by Mercedes-Benz?

Mercedes-Benz offers several van models including:

eSprinter

eVito

Sprinter

Vito