Mercedes-Benz Unveils The Metris Van

A few years ago, Mercedes-Benz threw the commercial van segment on its head when they launched the Sprinter (which was sold by Dodge at the time, since both brands were owned by Daimler at that point). Infinitely more advanced than the Ford E-Series and Chevrolet Express of the era, this European van was an instant success. Today, Mercedes-Benz has brought the Sprinter back into their dealerships, and is currently enjoying the profits it generates.

On the other side of the Atlantic, Mercedes-Benz offers the Vito, a small van that offers the same excellent recipe as the Sprinter, but in a smaller package. To oppose the Ford Transit Connect, Chevrolet City Express and Nissan NV200, the German manufacturer decided to bring the Vito here. However, it gained a new name during the trip over: it will be known as the Metris on our shores.

• Also: Mercedes-Benz will Offer the Vito Van on our Shores
• Also: 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: A Garden Shed on Wheels

Available with rear seats or a cargo area in the back, the Metris will be powered by a gasoline four-cylinder displacing 1.9 litres. Developing 211 horsepower, this mill should be enough to haul around passengers or freight. To offer more safety, Mercedes-Benz fits the Metris with a stability control system that takes lateral wind into account, a system that was launched on the Sprinter.

The Metris will start at $28,950, which makes it the cheapest Mercedes-Benz you can buy right now.