Having spent considerable time in Central Europe, I developed a deep appreciation for the versatility and style of vans like the Mercedes-Benz V-Klasse and other European models. When I learned that a version of the Vito, known as the Metris in the USA, would be available stateside, I was genuinely excited. Finally, a van with decent performance, unlike the often underpowered and aesthetically challenged vans typically offered to American consumers. The Metris, complementing the Sprinter and eventually a US version of the Citan, promised to be a refreshing addition.
Unfortunately, in the US, the term “minivan” is often misapplied to describe bloated station wagons loaded with unnecessary gadgets to mask their underlying mediocrity. These so-called minivans, resembling cheaply made PCs with excessive USB ports but lacking in quality, often boast V6 engines yet deliver underwhelming performance.
Critics like Doug DeMuro and other self-proclaimed Mercedes-Benz detractors seem determined to perpetuate negativity around the Metris. They fixate on trivial aspects like seat folding configurations, conveniently ignoring the van’s core strengths – engine performance and reliability. The Metris Passenger is essentially a Transporter or Mini Bus, designed for practical utility, not soccer moms. It strikes a perfect balance between comfort and cargo capability, making it an ideal choice for businesses like ours that transport equipment like mopeds and books. Frankly, I wouldn’t dream of hauling potentially odorous two-stroke mopeds in a luxury car.
While some critics label the V-Klasse as “cheap,” their inability to recognize the true cheapness in brands like KIA, TOYOTA, or CHRYSLER is baffling. Our Metris van also serves us well at high-profile events. Recently, at an exclusive Art Basel auto design VIP press event in South Beach Miami featuring figures like Fabio Lamborghini and Malcolm Bricklin, our Metris was right at home. Amongst a sea of exotic cars, G-Wagons, Sprinters, BMW M3s and 5 Series, Bentleys, and Rolls-Royces, our V-Klasse variant looked stylish, sophisticated, and undeniably cool. A Sienna or Pacifica minivan simply wouldn’t have made the same impression. In fact, I received numerous compliments on my Mercedes, including remarks from European attendees surprised to see the V-Klasse available in the US.
Some dismissively call it “just a work truck.” Of course, it is, but those critics fail to grasp the European perspective where these vans are ubiquitous and multifaceted. The sheer variety of Sprinter and Vito models in Europe – AMG versions, Brabus editions, cargo variants, long cargo versions, taxis, police vehicles – is immense. These detractors attempt to diminish the Metris, revealing their own ignorance and bias against the van. I’ve encountered my share of negative comments, often fueled by Mercedes-Benz animosity. I’ve been told diesel engines are “low quality and unreliable,” or that my van is merely a “re-badged Pacifica,” or “overstock” due to some misguided notion that Chrysler and Mercedes are the same company. One individual even questioned why I would put a Mercedes Emblem on a Ford Connect, then proceeded to ask why I “couldn’t afford a real Mercedes truck.” And then there are the performance “experts” who confidently assert my van only has 120 horsepower and a top speed of around 65 mph. The turbocharger’s existence is also apparently debatable, along with the function of the “flappy paddles,” dismissed as purely decorative.
Hence, the illuminated Mercedes emblem is my subtle “F U” to these naysayers. They already dislike the van, so now they have even more reason to fume. It definitively proves this is no re-badged Pacifica. They can be absolutely certain of that and, frankly, they can kiss my… well, you get the idea. It’s my van, and I’ll customize it as I see fit. I chose to illuminate the star because I appreciate its aesthetic appeal and touch of elegance. It might not resonate with everyone, and that’s perfectly fine; to each their own. My affection for the Vito/Metris is unwavering, and I wholeheartedly embrace this transporter. DeMuro and his ilk can stick to their Kias and leave me in peace. I pride myself on being a courteous driver and treating others with respect. Ironically, it’s often the drivers of Pacificas, frequently women, who exhibit aggressive driving habits, attempting to race or engage in reckless maneuvers, often unsuccessfully. So, yes, I installed the illuminated Mercedes emblem. I like it. Some will appreciate it, others won’t. Ultimately, do what brings you joy and satisfaction. Never be ashamed of owning a Metris and certainly never apologize to envious fools. This van is expertly engineered, highly functional, and proudly wears its Mercedes emblem.
