Renault Kangoo-related van-with-windows gets styling and tech lifted from A-Class
Mercedes-Benz has released pictures of its new T-Class, the compact Mercedes Citan-based people mover it hopes will steal sales from the VW Caddy.
Developed as part of a joint venture with Renault, that also spun-off the latest generation Kangoo, the T-Class is set to be offered as both a standard wheelbase with five seats and a larger, longer-wheelbase that will accommodate up to seven.
The latter isn’t set to arrive until 2023, while the former will make its debut later this year in Europe.
Measuring in at 2298mm long, 1859mm wide and standing 1811mm tall the standard five-seat T-Class is closely matched in size with the Caddy and is only 2mm shorter, 4mm wider and 9mm lower than the VW. Once introduced, Mercedes will also debut its all-electric EQT that will share the same powertrain as the latest Renault Kangoo ZE.
Differing from its Renault relation, all T-Class models share styling with the small Citan delivery van, getting the firm’s usual imposing three-pointed star grille, A-Class-inspired front headlamps and bumper. From the windscreen backwards, the T-Class and Kangoo are near identical, with the Benz getting very useful sliding rear doors. At the rear of the people mover there’s the option of either a traditional tailgate or split ‘barn doors’.
Within the cabin, the T-Class gets a multi-function steering wheel, its own instrument graphics, round air vents and other detailed changes to try and ensure it differentiates itself from the Renault. The seats too, are unique with firmer cushions with the range-topping models even getting a faux-leather wrapped dash for more of a premium look and feel. There’s no digital instrument cluster, but a 7-inch infotainment system that is both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compliant.
Larger floor bins, foldable plastic tables and numerous other stowage spots dotted around the cabin enhance the practicality of the T-Class. As well as practical, the new Mercedes T-Class is also as safe as a passenger car and has already been awarded a five-star EuroNCAP crash test rating, with the compact van-based MPV getting a centre airbag between the driver and passenger seats to prevent head strike in a side impact, There’s also plenty of driver assist tech, plus the option of active cruise control that includes lane keep assist.
Under the bonnet there’s a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel that produces 70kW/230Nm in the T160d or 85kW/260Nm in the T180d. On the petrol side there’s a 1.3-litre turbo that kicks out 75kW/200Nm (T160) or 96kW/240Nm in the T180. Both engines come with a six-speed manual as standard with a quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch transmission offered on the T180d and the T180. Pricing in Germany begins at €30,000 (A$45,000) for the entry-level T160 – that compares favourably to the $46,140 charged for the cheapest TSI220 VW Caddy people mover, although there’s still no date for the T-Class’ introduction Down Under, despite the small van being under consideration by Mercedes-Benz Australia.
Keyword: Mercedes-Benz T-Class MPV arrives to fight the Caddy