Mercedes-Benz is well-known for its desire to have a vehicle in nearly every vehicle segment you can imagine, and that includes commercial vans: Last year, the brand brought its mid-size Metris van to Canada in a passenger format and the cargo variant you're reading about here.
A smaller sibling to the full-size Sprinter, the Metris takes up about as much space as a typical minivan but stands taller and boasts the broader range of capabilities that sets a work-ready van apart from family-friendly minivans.
For 2018, the Metris gets a couple of minor changes, including a standard backup camera and a chrome grille for its optional deluxe appearance package.
Otherwise, this workhorse carries over with power from a 2.0L turbo four-cylinder gas engine that makes 208 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, which it feeds to the rear wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission.
While those numbers limit the Metris' towing ability to 2,268 kg (about what most mid-size crossovers will tow), it boasts a beefy 1,135-kg payload capacity.
In cargo configuration, the Metris can be had in short- and long-wheelbase forms, but just one roof height. However, it does get a few things conceived to make it easier to drive, like crosswind assist and an attention-assist system that encourages the driver to take a break if the car senses behaviour indicative of drowsiness.
Notably, Metris models sold in North America have a pair of front cupholders unique to this continent, a nod to our obsession with enjoying beverages while behind the wheel. New options include electric front seats with three memory settings.
Standard features include 17-inch steel wheels (alloys are available), black bumpers, mirrors and door handles, a single right-side sliding door, air conditioning, tilt steering, automatic headlights, power windows, tire pressure monitoring, manual seat adjustments, cloth upholstery, stereo with 5.8-inch TFT display and USB input and Bluetooth.
Mercedes will option the Metris with things like a cargo area lighting package, extra rear windows and load-securing rails, which a convenience package comprises niceties like a multifunction steering wheel, cruise control and a trip computer, while a cold weather package brings heated seats and an auxiliary heater. A short list of available active safety kit includes forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring and lane keeping assist.
Fuel consumption estimates are 11.1/9.1 L/100 km (city/highway).
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