Mercedes-Benz introduces Metris midsize van to US and Canada

(Before It's News)

Mercedes-Benz Vans USA introduced the Mercedes-Benz Metris midsize van at the NTEA Work Truck Show in Indianapolis. The Metris, which launches at US dealers in October 2015, is the US and Canadian sibling to the Vito, which remains the midsize commercial van nameplate for all other global markets.

The Metris will be available with a 4-cylinder gasoline engine that has 208 hp (155 kW) and 258 lb-ft (350 N·m) of torque, mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive. This powertrain application, with optional ECO start/stop, was developed specifically for the US and Canadian markets to meet the needs of the Mid-Size Commercial Van Segment, and also comes with a service interval of up to 15,000 miles (24,140 km).

The Metris will feature 6 airbags for the Cargo Van variant and 8 airbags for the Passenger Van variant. All models will feature standard ATTENTION ASSIST, standard Crosswind Assist, and standard load-adaptive ESP. Optional safety features will include Active Parking Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, PARKTRONIC, Collision Prevention Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and a rearview camera. Many of the interior features are taken from other recent automotive entrants into the Mercedes-Benz lineup, such as premium touches and overall fit-and-finish. Large cupholders have also been added to the center console on the dashboard to meet North American customer needs of long-haul or local driving.

In the US full-size commercial van segment, sales of the Sprinter continue to be brisk, up 17.4% YTD. Model year 2014 brought new major enhancements such as a fresh and confident new front end exterior design, 4-cylinder BlueTEC clean diesel powertrain that already plays a similar role as its big brother, the V6, and upgrades of safety and infotainment.

To coincide with the launch of the new Metris midsize commercial van, this year the Daimler Vans USA team will be rolling out a new and improved Upfitter Program in the coming months.

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