The 2023 Mercedes-benz Metris stands out as a unique offering in the commercial van market. Bridging the gap between smaller vans and full-size behemoths, the Metris provides a compelling blend of maneuverability, cargo capacity, and Mercedes-Benz build quality. While 2023 marks its final year in the U.S. market, the Metris remains a worthy contender for businesses seeking a versatile and capable van. Let’s delve into what makes the 2023 Metris a smart choice for your needs.
Pros and Cons of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris
Before diving deeper, it’s essential to understand the key advantages and disadvantages of the 2023 Metris.
Pros:
- Superior Cargo Space: Compared to other small vans in its class, the Metris offers a significantly larger cargo area, making it ideal for businesses that require ample hauling capabilities without the bulk of a full-size van.
- Class-Leading Payload and Towing: The Metris boasts impressive payload and towing ratings, outperforming its small van competitors and providing the muscle needed for demanding jobs.
- Enhanced Maneuverability: Navigating city streets and tight parking spaces is easier in the Metris compared to larger vans, offering a practical advantage for urban businesses.
Cons:
- Premium Fuel Requirement: The Metris’s engine requires premium fuel, potentially increasing operating costs compared to competitors that run on regular gasoline.
- Higher Price Point: The Mercedes-Benz badge comes at a price. The Metris is more expensive than budget-friendly rivals like the Ford Transit Connect and Ram ProMaster City.
What’s New for the 2023 Metris?
For its final year, Mercedes-Benz has made some notable updates to the 2023 Metris:
- Standard Features Upgrade: Forward collision mitigation and a digital display instrument cluster are now standard, enhancing safety and driver information.
- Feature Removal: Power-adjustable front seats are no longer available, simplifying the options list.
- Final Model Year: 2023 is confirmed as the last year for the Metris in the U.S. market, making it a potentially limited-availability vehicle.
2023 Metris Overview: A Midsize Van with Big Capabilities
The Mercedes-Benz Metris was conceived to introduce the renowned Mercedes-Benz commercial van experience to a broader American market segment. Positioned as a midsize option, it aimed to offer more utility than compact vans like the Ford Transit Connect but with greater agility and fuel efficiency than full-size vans such as the Ford Transit or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
While its tenure in the U.S. market is concluding, the 2023 Metris continues to offer configurations to suit various business needs. Available as a cargo van in two wheelbase lengths (126-inch and 135-inch) and a passenger van with seating for up to eight, the Metris provides flexibility. Furthermore, its availability as a factory camper van or through third-party upfitters underscores its adaptability to specialized requirements.
Despite its higher initial cost compared to smaller competitors, the Metris justifies its price with increased space, robust capabilities, and the inherent quality associated with the Mercedes-Benz brand.
The Cost to Drive a 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris
Understanding the running costs is crucial for any business vehicle. Fuel consumption is a significant factor. Based on North Dakota energy costs and driving 15,000 miles annually with a 55% city and 45% highway mix, the estimated monthly fuel cost for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris 126″ WB Cargo is around $231, compared to an average of $200 for large minivans.
While these are estimates and actual costs will vary based on driving habits, fuel prices, and cargo load, it’s clear that the Metris’s premium fuel requirement and fuel economy should be considered in your budget.
Edmunds Expert Rating: A “Cheat Code” in the Small Van Segment
The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team, known for its rigorous and objective vehicle assessments, has put the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris through its paces. Their expert rating highlights the Metris as a standout in its class.
Edmunds Expert Rating: 7.6 / 10
Edmunds’ verdict positions the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris as a “cheat code” among small cargo vans. Its larger dimensions and Mercedes-Benz engineering give it a distinct advantage in payload and towing capacity. While acknowledging the higher upfront cost and less impressive fuel economy, Edmunds emphasizes that the Metris operates in a class of its own when it comes to work capability and available features.
Performance: 8/10
Alt Text: 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris in motion showcasing its performance capabilities.
The Metris delivers a driving experience that surpasses expectations for a commercial van. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides ample power and responsiveness, paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain makes the Metris feel surprisingly agile and even enjoyable to drive, even when loaded. Steering accuracy further enhances the driving experience, reducing driver fatigue during long workdays. While body roll is present in corners, typical for vans of this type, the Metris maintains composure and handles city driving with ease. However, drivers should be mindful of its upright design in windy conditions, despite the standard crosswind assist.
Comfort: 7/10
The Metris prioritizes payload capacity, which inherently impacts comfort levels. Thin walls and minimal insulation contribute to noticeable road noise, especially when the cargo area is empty. While this is a common characteristic of work-oriented vans, Mercedes-Benz has focused on maximizing comfort in other areas. The driver’s seat is praised for its support and comfort, and the ride quality effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections. The optional automatic climate control is a welcome feature, offering convenience and pre-cabin conditioning.
Interior: 7.5/10
Alt Text: Interior view of a 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris highlighting the spacious cabin and accessible controls.
The Metris interior excels in accessibility. Getting in and out is easy, and the straightforward layout of controls and dials is intuitive. While seat adjustability is limited and the steering wheel lacks telescoping function, the driving position is generally comfortable for most drivers. Passenger space in the front is generous, with ample headroom and elbow room. Visibility in the cargo van version can be challenging, particularly without rear windows and due to thick front roof pillars.
Technology: 7.5/10
The 2023 Metris incorporates modern technology features typically found in passenger vehicles. A user-friendly 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard. Navigation is available as an option. Standard crosswind assist enhances safety, while available adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking add further driver assistance. The optional digital rearview mirror is particularly useful in cargo vans, providing unobstructed rear visibility even with a fully loaded cargo area.
Storage: 9/10
Storage and utility are where the Metris truly shines. It leads the small van segment in payload and towing capacity. Maximum cargo space is also impressive. Optional cargo area features such as tie-downs, LED lighting, and versatile rear door configurations (including 270-degree opening or a vertical hatch) further enhance its practicality.
Fuel Economy: 6/10
Fuel economy is an area where the Metris lags behind some competitors. EPA estimates for the Metris Cargo are 20 mpg combined. Real-world testing by Edmunds showed an average of 22 mpg in mixed driving and 27 mpg on their evaluation loop. While these figures are respectable for a van of this size and capability, smaller vans generally achieve better fuel economy.
Value: 6.5/10
The value proposition of the Metris is tied to its Mercedes-Benz pedigree and enhanced capabilities. It carries a higher price tag than competitors, which is justified by its robust build, powerful engine, and superior payload and towing. For businesses that prioritize these attributes and appreciate Mercedes-Benz quality, the Metris offers good value. However, for those primarily seeking a budget-friendly option, smaller and less powerful vans might suffice.
Wildcard: 8/10
The “wildcard” factor for the Metris is its surprisingly engaging driving personality. In a segment often characterized by blandness, the Metris’s torquey engine and responsive handling make it more enjoyable to drive than expected. Its ability to haul and tow more than other small vans, combined with its comfortable and responsive nature, gives it a unique and appealing character.
Which 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Does Edmunds Recommend?
For optimizing comfort and driver-assistance features, Edmunds recommends the following option packages:
- Driver Comfort Package: Adds upgraded front seats and a softer suspension for enhanced ride comfort.
- Safety Plus Package: Includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, lane keeping assist, and rain-sensing wipers for advanced safety and convenience.
Compare 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris trim levels
2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Model Configurations and Features
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris offers both Cargo and Passenger configurations to meet diverse business and personal needs. All models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Cargo Van:
- Available in 126-inch and 135-inch wheelbase lengths.
- Standard features include: 16-inch steel wheels, multi-function steering wheel, 4.2-inch digital display, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment, five-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rearview camera, air conditioning, cloth upholstery, power front windows, trailer brake controller connection, forward collision mitigation, and crosswind assistance.
- Optional packages include: Driver Efficiency, Driver Comfort, Safety Plus, and Cargo Protection.
Passenger Van:
- Available in 126-inch wheelbase only.
- Seating for five, seven, or eight passengers.
- Adds features over the Cargo van: Second and third-row side windows, plastic flooring, rear window defroster and wiper, second battery, and swiveling front seats.
- Optional packages include: Premium Exterior, Enhanced AC, and Premium Interior.
Edmunds Latest Mercedes-Benz Metris News
While the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris marks the end of its U.S. run, it leaves behind a legacy as a capable, versatile, and somewhat unique midsize van. For businesses seeking a van that balances maneuverability with robust cargo and towing capabilities, the 2023 Metris remains a compelling option to consider.
