Mercedes-Benz new Citan van due early next year

The Mercedes Citan is the only van in this class to come with ESP as standard – and it’ll  be a legal requirement on new vans this time next year

The instrumentation is good enough but I’m not a fan of the single stalk that operates indicators, wipers, washers and main beam. It’s complicated to use, and easy to mistake the speed limited/cruise control lever for the indicator stalk. No doubt you get used to this in time.

But the standard level of equipment is generous. It’s the only van in its class fitted with Electric Stability Program ADAPTIVE ESP, which takes the vehicle load into consideration and combines the functions of the ABS, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) which counters over- and understeer, and traction control. This also includes Acceleration Skid Control (ASR) and drive and braking torque control.

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You can get a pallet in here, and the loadspace is well protected from the damage they can do

Central locking, electrically operated windows, electrically operated and heated door mirrors, MP3 and Bluetooth connectivity, driver airbag and daytime running lamps are also standard equipment. Air conditioning is an optional extra (£872).

The loadspace measures 1369mm long and 1219mm wide, which allows a Euro pallet to be loaded side on. Access is via twin asymmetrically split rear doors that open to 180 degrees. The cargo area has plastic floor covering and four tie-down rings. A mesh bulkhead separates cargo from the cab.

Service intervals are set at 24,000 miles.

 

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Handy full width overhead shelf makes up for a shortage of cab storage elsewhere

What’s hot?

  • Nicely torquey, responsive power unit
  • Ride and handling are impressive
  • Loaded with a high level of standard equipment
  • A great range of option packages – Drivers Pack, Safety Pack, Appearance Pack, Cargo Pack and Flexibility Pack – can be had to suit your requirements
  • 24,000 miles service interval
  • Mercedes-Benz badge adds cachet

 

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Odd spot for the handbrake – and it gets in the way of the 12V socket

What’s not?

  • The plasticky cab is disappointing, and belies the Mercedes-Benz badging
  • In-cab stowage is a little lacking
  • Handbrake is rather eccentric and its position could hamper the 12v socket and cup holders
  • Gearbox is very nice but a six-speed version across the range would be even better

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