Mercedes-Benz T-Class Is a Stylish Compact Van for Europe

• mercedes-benz has launched the new t-class van for europe. it's a passenger version of its compact citan cargo van.
• the most powerful engine option is a turbocharged gas inline-four with 129 horsepower, and there are also two diesels available.
• the interior features faux leather, led lighting, a 7.0-inch touchscreen, and smartphone integration.

american consumers in search of a van with a prestigious badge can shell out for the full-size mercedes-benz sprinter or the mid-size mercedes-benz metris. in europe, van shoppers also have a smaller offering, the citan, which received a redesign in august of 2021. based on the bones of the renault kangoo, the second-generation citan has now morphed into a family-oriented passenger van bearing the t-class moniker, which mercedes says is “bringing comfort into the private small van segment.”

measuring 177.1 inches long and 71.3 inches tall, the t-class has room for five passengers, although mercedes says a long-wheelbase version with seven seats is on its way. power comes from a range of inline-four engines, with two 1.5-liter diesel offerings and two turbocharged 1.3-liter gas options. the most powerful gas engine puts out just 129 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. a six-speed manual gearbox is standard, while the two diesels and more powerful gas engine can be had with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

inside, every t-class comes fitted with a 7.0-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, keyless start, a 5.5-inch digital display in the instrument cluster, and led interior lightning. much of the cabin is decked out in faux leathers, while the dashboard is decked out in gloss black trim. the rear bench seat can fold flat to allow for more luggage space, and mercedes touts the wide sliding door openings and low rear sill for added practicality. buyers can opt for the style or progressive line packages for even fancier interior and exterior trim. the t-class will start just under 30,000 euros, about $31,500 at current exchange rates—but we don't anticipate mercedes will bring this vehicle stateside anytime soon.

source:caranddriver.com