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In the future, the richest range of Mercedes Citan models will be joined by the finest version called the T-Class. This makes the versatile high-roof combination more valuable and a bit more colourful. We were already allowed to try it out.
The first encounter with the new Mercedes T class reveals a clearly visible difference to its relative, the Citan Tourer, which was presented a year earlier: the metallic paint shade Rubellit Red. It is only available for the most comfortable Mercedes high-roof station wagon. And a few other specific things reveal the T-Class. Mirrors and bumpers are presented in the vehicle color and in this way set themselves apart from the black add-on parts of the Citan series.
More chic than the Citan
A first check of the interior reveals further details that are reserved for the T-Class. Colorful decorative elements ranging from high-gloss black and silver to "limonite yellow" ensure a homely flair. Customers will also not find the “Artico” upholstery associated with the high-end “Style” equipment line – this is synthetic leather – on the Citan. A double decorative seam completes the impression of living nicer in the T-Class.
And all of these nice extras don't stop the station wagon from being as practical as possible in the noblest version. Up to 2.390 liters of luggage can be stowed through side sliding doors and a tailgate at the rear or gullwing doors (depending on preference). Alternatively, the utility value pro offers up to seven seats in a version with a longer wheelbase. Up to 1.500 kilograms can also be lifted using the optional hook, which makes the T-Class an all-rounder. And of course there are plenty of shelves and folding tables in the second row, which, by the way, is characterized by a fair amount of legroom. In addition, three child seats can be attached.
Just as colorful inside as outside
Mercedes donated the flexible "Hey Mercedes" voice control system to the van, with which you can talk freely and do not have to utter appropriately formulated sentences. A seven-inch screen placed architecturally prominently on the center console underscores the digital age. It also fits that there is ambient lighting with eight selectable colors. In contrast, the instrument cluster with mechanical classics à la rev counter and speedometer seems almost a bit anachronistic.
So that there are no misunderstandings: It's not bad, and the values are easy to read. But those who expect a freely configurable display area will be put off. On the other hand, the Swabians are probably doing those customers, who are still numerous, a favor who enjoy conventional ads that have become rare. However, there is at least a large color display between the scales. However, there is still some room for improvement - a really practical head-up display has so far been missing from the list of optional features. On the other hand, a multifunction steering wheel with a good grip and numerous buttons gives the impression of being able to operate a lot here.
Security is a top priority
For example, the active cruise control, which is part of a whole armada of assistants. Longitudinal and lateral guidance can be taken over by the computer if required. The T-Class brakes automatically in many situations, including at intersections. There is also an active lane departure warning system and a blind spot warning system. If desired, the T-Class parks automatically and offers a reversing camera. It also illuminates nocturnal landscapes with LED headlights.
The drive portfolio is objectively oriented with two petrol and diesel engines. Similar to the Citan Tourer, the four-cylinder petrol engines developed in cooperation with Renault have an output of 75 kW/102 hp or 96 kW/131 hp and consume 6,6 to 7,3 liters per 100 kilometers in the WLTP discipline. The diesel engines, also developed in cooperation with Renault, have a displacement of 1,5 liters and deliver 70 kW/95 hp and 85 kW/116 hp respectively. With 5,3 to 5,9 liters per 100 kilometers, these four-cylinders are naturally somewhat more economical. Manual six-speed or optionally automatic seven-speed transmissions with double-clutch technology transmit the torque of the machines.
Anything else electrical?
And of course the T-Class will also appear on the market as a battery-electric vehicle – Mercedes is still silent on the technical data. However, it would be a surprise if the values were different than in the sister model Renault Kangoo. And here the Stromer delivers 90 kW/122 hp. The approximately 45 kWh battery can be quickly charged with direct current or overnight with alternating current.
The soon to be debuted T-Class is likely to be the last model from the cooperation between Mercedes and Renault, as the cooperation ends after around twelve years.
