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Mercedes-Benz reveals next-generation small van: the Citan
Written by Thembani Magazi – September 06, 2021
Reviewed by Asaf Kedem
Mercedes-Benz, the automotive giant, has launched a new minivan called Citan – a new compact model with high functioning features. The new Mercedes Citan 2022 will be available in Van and Tourer versions. There is also an electric model on the cards at Mercedes, titled the e-Citan.
Like its predecessor, the new Citan is based on the Renault Kangoo, a very successful van model. The small van stands about 4.5 m in length with a wheelbase of 2.7 m. Small exterior dimensions, generous interior space and large payload capacity allow the new Citan to offer multiple possibilities of transportation. Easy access to the interior for loading is made possible via the wide sliding doors on the left and right sides of the vehicle, as well as the optional low loading threshold.
On the inside, the small new van will be equipped with the 7-inch touchscreen MBUX infotainment system and a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel. The Tourer version will have five separate seats with a foldable rear bench. The Citan is also equipped with a number of high end driver assistance systems as one would come to expect from Mercedes-Benz. The new Citan gets Hill Start Assist, Active Brake Assist, ADAS like Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and much more. The Citan minivan will be powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder diesel engine with a choice of 75, 95 or 116 hp.
Mercedes will launch the electric version of the Citan, the e-Citan, next year. Driven by a 75 kW and up to 245 Nm strong electric motor, the e-Citan will be capable of returning a range of around 285 km on a single charge. It will be possible to recharge the EV using either a 11 kW on-board charger or with a 22 Kw one. At the DC connection, the eight battery modules with up to 75 kW should recharge up to 80 percent in 40 minutes.
Auto Trendy’s take:
This type of small van is exactly what Mercedes-Benz needs to corner the market for successful and compact transport of goods and services in busy urban areas. Their ADAS systems and the premium finish are likely to nudge this small van out of the price range of many a consumer, however. Still, this small van that is jam-packed full of features is likely to add a lot of value for those customers who do manage to purchase it. Mercedes claims to be targeting “fleet, owner-operator and rental sectors in equal measure” with this van, and their sales numbers are likely to be successful with this model. The van’s awesome utility speaks for itself and we are curious to see how well it performs on the market.
