Mercedes-Benz Vans USA is introducing the Mercedes-Benz Metris. The Metris, which launches at U.S. dealers in
October 2015, is the U.S. and Canadian sibling to the “Vito,” which remains the
midsize commercial van nameplate for all other global markets.
The Metris is a right-sized vehicle: It is larger
than the small vans and smaller than the large vans. Its value proposition
includes superior craftsmanship, high cargo/towing capacity, and an attractive
price. It is designed to thrive in large metropolitan areas with an agile yet
spacious presence.
The Cargo Van starts at US$ 28,950, and the Passenger Van
starts at US$ 32,500 (excluding US$ 995 destination/delivery charge for both vans). The Metris will be
available with a powerful and highly efficient 4-cylinder gasoline engine that
has 208 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, mated to a refined, efficient, and robust
7-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive. This powertrain
application, with optional ECO start/stop, was developed specifically for the
U.S. and Canadian markets to meet the needs of the Mid-Size Commercial Van
Segment, and also comes with a service interval of up to 15,000 miles.
Advanced safety features are a hallmark for any
Mercedes-Benz vehicle, and the Metris will feature 6 airbags for the Cargo Van
variant and 8 airbags for the Passenger Van variant. All models will feature
standard ATTENTION ASSIST, standard Crosswind Assist, and standard
load-adaptive ESP. Optional safety features will include Active Parking Assist,
Lane Keeping Assist, PARKTRONIC, Collision Prevention Assist, Blind Spot
Assist, and a rearview camera.
All of these features highlight the position of the
Sprinter as the most innovative large van in the segment. Independent from the
model year, over 75% of all Sprinters have upfitter treatment on them,
regardless of extra shelving or extensive Recreational Vehicle modifications.