The second-generation Mercedes-Benz Citan is due to arrive on sale in Ireland during May, with the first deliveries due to commence the following month. Its new design marks a step forward from its predecessor, while the compact size should make it a consideration for SMEs, small trades and urban delivery users.
Capable of carrying two Euro pallets, the Citan also has two sliding side doors that open to create an aperture of 615mm wide and 1,059mm tall. Its rear doors can open to 90 degrees or be folded back along the side of the van.
The Citan is also set to be the last new van that Mercedes-Benz will launch with a combustion engine. Buyers will have a choice of initially 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engines and 1.4-litre turbocharged diesel engines. The petrol motors will be available in 102hp and 131hp outputs, with the diesel coming with 75hp, 95hp and 116hp outputs. All engines meet the latest vehicle emissions standards and feature start-stop functionality. The most powerful versions of both engine types will be available with seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions.
Mercedes does plan to introduce an electric Citan in time, with a 44kWh battery that can provide up to 285 kilometres of driving range. This version will primarily aim for delivery businesses with a light-duty cycle. Powering it is a 102hp electric motor producing 245Nm of torque.
Aside from the powertrains, the new Citan features improved in-car technology, including the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant. There is also full smartphone integration with Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and an optional 7-inch touchscreen display.
Fergus Conheady, Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Sales Manager, said the Citan will be “a strong premium product offering at all points in the panel van market. With its compact exterior and impressively-spacious interior, Citan is expected to achieve sales in significant numbers supported by a dedicated and ambitious dealer network.”
You can read our review of the new Mercedes-Benz Citan here.