The Mercedes T-Class is a new van-based MPV like the Volkswagen Caddy, and will be revealed soon
- New T-Class is based on the next-generation Citan van
- It will be revealed on 26 April
- Electric version is likely to be called EQT
A new model called the Mercedes T-Class will be revealed on 26 April, and it’s been teased with a new picture of the front of the car. It will be a new people carrier based on the new Mercedes Citan van, and we expect it to go on sale in late Autumn 2022 following the reveal in April.
This means it will share some parts with the Renault Kangoo and Nissan NV200, as the Citan is also based on the same platform as these models. However, the T-Class will use more upmarket parts to ensure it feels like a Mercedes. It’ll be a more upmarket – and expensive – MPV, taking on the Ford Tourneo Connect, Citroen Berlingo and Volkswagen Caddy but with more luxury inside.
The new teaser image shows a front-end a little like the upmarket Mercedes A-Class, but with a short, van-like bonnet and a tall windscreen. It features a sporty-looking lower bumper and LED lights, plus a large grille with the Mercedes three-pointed star logo.
We expect the engine range to be the same as in the Renault and Citroen vans: a 1.5-litre diesel engine and a 1.3-litre petrol engine. The latter is fitted to a wide range of models from the Dacia Duster to the Mercedes A-Class, although the diesel engine may be a more popular choice – especially if you’re planning to load the car up with people or luggage.
It’s likely that an electric version will also be available, and since the electric version of the larger Mercedes V-Class is called the Mercedes EQV, we expect the electric T-Class to be called the Mercedes EQT. This model isn’t likely to appear until at least 2023, though.
Mercedes has previously confirmed that twin sliding rear doors will be fitted and has hinted that it will carry the safety features and connectivity technology Mercedes buyers expect. The T-Class may get the twin-screen MBUX infotainment system that’s now fitted to the larger Mercedes Sprinter van.
What does it mean for car buyers?
While it’s easy for Mercedes to make the T-Class because it shares so much with the Citan van, it’s an interesting decision to target the smaller van-based MPV market. The cars it’ll rival are all much cheaper than a normal MPV or SUV, and buyers choose them partly for the value for money they offer. A more upmarket, luxury version seems to go against that ethos, and Mercedes’ partnership with Nissan and Renault didn’t work out so well last time they made a passenger model; the Nissan Navara-based Mercedes X-Class was withdrawn after just two years on sale.
Keyword: Mercedes T-Class MPV to be revealed in April