After a hiatus of close to two decades, Mercedes-Benz is returning to the commercial vehicle scene - this time around with a compact van called the Citan.
The minivan, in fact, is the first commercial vehicle that bears the three-pointed star after the Vito, which made its debut way back in 1995.Exterior
Like its luxury-bred counterparts, the Citan wears the three-pointed badge proudly across its front facet. But that is just about the only similarity it shares with its stablemates.
The Citan comes in three different lengths, but only the largest 'Extra-long' variant will be offered here in Singapore. With a length of 4,700mm, the Citan does not exactly fit the description of being a 'compact van'.
The minivan, in fact, is the first commercial vehicle that bears the three-pointed star after the Vito, which made its debut way back in 1995.Exterior
Like its luxury-bred counterparts, the Citan wears the three-pointed badge proudly across its front facet. But that is just about the only similarity it shares with its stablemates.
The Citan comes in three different lengths, but only the largest 'Extra-long' variant will be offered here in Singapore. With a length of 4,700mm, the Citan does not exactly fit the description of being a 'compact van'.
It is also apparent that the Citan is made for 'function' rather than 'form'. What it does is cleverly hide its heft with rounded edges.
As such, the Citan looks like a smart city dweller, defeating the clumsy image that delivery vans used to have. In fact, it carries a rather pleasant charm, and we wouldn't mind being seen in one.
As such, the Citan looks like a smart city dweller, defeating the clumsy image that delivery vans used to have. In fact, it carries a rather pleasant charm, and we wouldn't mind being seen in one.
Interior
The dashboard is covered mostly by plastic trims that feel like they are built to last. Instruments also follow a more 'fundamental' layout for fuss-free operation.
That, though, is not to say that the Citan is ill-equipped by any standards. The list of equipment include automatic headlights, foglamps and an aftermarket stereo system with reverse camera - which will come in handy when parking the minivan.
The dashboard is covered mostly by plastic trims that feel like they are built to last. Instruments also follow a more 'fundamental' layout for fuss-free operation.
That, though, is not to say that the Citan is ill-equipped by any standards. The list of equipment include automatic headlights, foglamps and an aftermarket stereo system with reverse camera - which will come in handy when parking the minivan.
With a wheelbase that spans over 3,000mm, the Citan offers great all-round utility too. There are proper seats for three adults at the back, with adequate shoulder and leg room to spare.
And even when the seats are up, the minivan can swallow 2,700 litres of loot and fit cargo that measures up to 1.3 metres in length.
And even when the seats are up, the minivan can swallow 2,700 litres of loot and fit cargo that measures up to 1.3 metres in length.
The Drive
The Citan comes with a 1.5-litre in-line four turbodiesel that churns out 90bhp and 200Nm of torque. Although the figures are nothing to be proud about, the Citan gets up and about in a relatively fuss-free manner.
Mustering its might takes little effort as the peak torque is delivered from 1,750rpm, allowing for effortless overtaking manoeuvres.
The turbodiesel also has commendable fuel economy, achieving up to 17km/L during our test run even without us driving in the most economical manner.
Besides the low consumption figure, the 1.5-litre is also compliant to Euro 5 emission standards. That should please eco-minded individuals as much as those who are looking for a cheap-to-run urban van.
Expectedly, the more 'budget' cabin allows more intrusions, such as road noise, on the go. The suspension is also more firmly strung to keep the minivan in better control, which means it is less comfortable than the average sedan. That said, the experience is never punishing.
Conclusion
The Citan's utilitarian roots may not impress the discerning driver or passengers. It is, however, an honest goods carrier meant for small business owners, with the added flexibility to ferry family members when the need arises.
And one thing is for sure - its almost car-like manners certainly surpass what is expected of a goods mover.
Conclusion
The Citan's utilitarian roots may not impress the discerning driver or passengers. It is, however, an honest goods carrier meant for small business owners, with the added flexibility to ferry family members when the need arises.
And one thing is for sure - its almost car-like manners certainly surpass what is expected of a goods mover.
