The commercial van landscape in the United States and Canada is undergoing a significant shift, and at the forefront of this evolution is the Mercedes-Benz Metris Van. Unveiled at the prestigious NTEA Work Truck Show on March 4, 2015, the Metris marked Mercedes-Benz Vans’ strategic entry into the mid-size commercial van market, bridging the gap between smaller and larger offerings and presenting a “right-sized” solution for businesses of all scales. Launching in October 2015, the Mercedes-Benz Metris Van quickly established itself as a compelling option, available in both Passenger Van and Cargo Van configurations, filling a unique niche with no direct competitors in its size and capability class.
This strategic introduction of the Mercedes-Benz Metris Van wasn’t just about adding another vehicle to the market; it was about redefining the expectations for a mid-size commercial van. Mercedes-Benz recognized the need for a vehicle that offered the maneuverability and fuel efficiency of smaller vans, yet possessed the robust cargo capacity and payload typically associated with larger models. The Metris was engineered to be this versatile solution, perfectly tailored for the demands of bustling metropolitan areas and the diverse needs of businesses ranging from small enterprises to larger fleets.
The Mercedes-Benz Metris Van immediately distinguished itself with a value proposition centered around superior German engineering, impressive cargo and towing capabilities, and a competitive price point. Starting at an appealing $28,950 for the Cargo Van and $32,500 for the Passenger Van (excluding destination and delivery charges), the Metris offered an accessible entry point into the Mercedes-Benz Vans family, making premium quality and performance available to a wider range of businesses. This attractive pricing, combined with the renowned Mercedes-Benz commitment to quality, positioned the Metris as an intelligent investment, promising not just an initial purchase but long-term value and reliability.
What truly sets the Mercedes-Benz Metris Van apart is its “right-size” philosophy. It’s designed to be agile and easily navigable in urban environments, fitting comfortably into parking garages and maneuvering through city streets, a crucial advantage for businesses operating in densely populated areas. However, this compact footprint doesn’t compromise on utility. As the comparison table below illustrates, the Mercedes-Benz Metris Van outperforms competitors in key metrics like payload and cargo volume, offering significantly more capability than smaller vans while maintaining a manageable size.
| Vehicle | Length | Width | Height | Advantage Metris |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz Sprinter | 233.3 in | 79.7 in | 96.3 in | |
| Mercedes-Benz Metris | 202.4 in | 75.9 in | 74.8 in | |
| Ford Transit Connect | 189.7 in | 72.2 in | 72.6 in | Metris: 880+ lbs (+54%) more payload and 45% more cargo volume |
| Nissan NV200 SV | 186.3 in | 68.1 in | 73.7 in | Metris: 1000+ lbs (+73%) more payload and over 50% more cargo volume |
| RAM C/V Tradesman | 202.8 in | 78.7 in | 69.0 in | Metris: 700+ lbs (+39%) more payload and 29% more cargo volume |
Source of competitive data: manufacturer websites, January 2015
Under the hood, the Mercedes-Benz Metris Van is powered by a robust and fuel-efficient 4-cylinder gasoline engine, generating 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine, coupled with a smooth and responsive 7-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, delivers a confident and capable driving experience. The optional ECO Start/Stop system further enhances fuel efficiency, contributing to lower operating costs. This powertrain was specifically engineered for the demands of the North American mid-size commercial van segment, ensuring optimal performance and reliability for a wide range of applications. Furthermore, the extended service interval of up to 15,000 miles underscores the Metris Van’s focus on minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
Safety is paramount in any Mercedes-Benz vehicle, and the Metris Van is no exception. It boasts a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including 6 airbags in the Cargo Van and 8 airbags in the Passenger Van. ATTENTION ASSIST, Crosswind Assist, and load-adaptive ESP are standard across all models, providing enhanced driver support and stability. A range of optional advanced safety systems further elevates the Metris Van’s safety credentials, including Active Parking Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, PARKTRONIC, Collision Prevention Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and a rearview camera. These features not only protect drivers and passengers but also contribute to safer operation in demanding commercial environments.
Inside the Mercedes-Benz Metris Van, drivers and passengers are treated to a refined and functional cabin environment. Drawing inspiration from Mercedes-Benz’s passenger car lineup, the Metris offers a level of fit-and-finish and premium touches not commonly found in the commercial van segment. Practical features like large cupholders in the center console cater to the needs of North American drivers, enhancing comfort during long workdays. The interior is designed for both durability and ergonomics, ensuring a comfortable and productive workspace on wheels.
The introduction of the Mercedes-Benz Metris Van alongside the continued success of the Sprinter full-size van solidified Mercedes-Benz Vans’ position as a comprehensive provider in the commercial vehicle market. While the Sprinter continued to flourish with ongoing enhancements and innovations, including the addition of standard Crosswind Assist, increased service intervals, and the introduction of a 4×4 version, the Metris filled a crucial gap in the mid-size segment. This dual offering provided businesses with a complete range of van solutions, from the robust capabilities of the Sprinter to the agile versatility of the Metris.
Recognizing the critical role of upfitters in tailoring commercial vans to specific business needs, Mercedes-Benz Vans also announced an enhanced Upfitter Program alongside the Metris launch. This program underscores Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to supporting upfitters and ensuring seamless customization of Metris and Sprinter vans to meet the diverse requirements of businesses across various industries.
In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz Metris Van represents more than just a new vehicle; it signifies a strategic and insightful approach to the commercial van market. By delivering a “right-sized” van that balances maneuverability, capability, safety, and value, Mercedes-Benz has redefined the mid-size van segment and provided businesses with a powerful tool to enhance efficiency and productivity. The Metris Van is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation and its understanding of the evolving needs of commercial customers in the United States and Canada.
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