Mercedes unveils the new Citan van

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a new Citan.

The design of the new Mercedes-Benz Citan is described as bearing balanced proportions and a sensual surface design.

Muscular shoulders and striking wheel wells underline the vehicle's power. Meanwhile, the cabin of the van also now sports a particularly eye-catching horizontal-shaped instrument panel, said to be inspired by the profile of a wing.

At 4,498mm long, for the standard wheelbase model, the Citan combines compact exterior dimensions with a generous amount of space. A number of different versions and practical equipment details will offer plenty of different usage possibilities and convenient loading.

At launch, there will be a Panel Van and a Tourer available, however, a long wheelbase as well as a Mixto version is planned for the future. But even in the short wheelbase variant, the Citan offers more space compared with the preceding model.

Aero-acoustic measures such as thicker glazing compared with that of the preceding model, and a second seal level in the doors ensure that the Citan retains class leading quiet levels.

The Citan also spots Mercedes' Attention Assist safty system, which monitors numerous parameters ascertained from the behaviour of the driver to detect signs of increasing inattention and tiredness. If the system detects typical signs of driver fatigue, it will audibly request the driver take a break.

Further aiding comfort on the go in the Citan are the use of high-quality materials and an ergonomic with appropriately shaped foam on its seats to offer greater lateral support.

The new Mercedes Citan also utilises a McPherson axle with wishbones at the bottom up front, and a space-saving torsion-beam axle for the rear as standard. The suspension setup is all new, with the Panel Van optimised for a high payload for stability when fully laden. The Tourer meanwhile has been optimised for journeys with a low load and is thus equipped with a greater emphasis on comfort.

The Tourer is additionally equipped with springs featuring a specific Mercedes-Benz springing rate which Mercedes states will impart the car with a driving characteristic that reflects the firm's DNA.

At market launch, the engine range of the new Citan will be comprise of three diesel and two petrol units. All these engines are said to deliver great driveability even in the low rev range and economical fuel consumption.