Mercedes-Benz Citan (13 on) - Review

The Mercedes-Benz Citan is the final piece in the jigsaw for the German brand. It now has a model in every panel van sector, meaning whatever your requirements there’s a model suited to you. Although Mercedes will go to great lengths to have you believe otherwise, the new van is based on the Renault Kangoo. It’s had a serious amount of redevelopment to wrench it up towards the standards the premium German manufacturer expects, and the price list reflects this. You get a choice of three lengths and three model variants to choose from. If you’re wondering where the name came from, it’s a hybridisation of the words ‘City’ and ‘Titan’. So is this new model good enough to warrant the extra cash over well-established competition? Read on for our full Mercedes-Benz Citan review to find out.

One of the first things you notice about the Citan is how comfortable it is. The adjustable driver’s and passenger’s seats offer lots of support, while it’s easy to find a decent driving position. The location of the gear lever is another factor which improves the experience – it falls easily to hand and has the sort of assured operation you expect from Mercedes products. The dash is shaped around the driver, while all of the materials and switchgear employed feel of a decent quality. They feel tough and rugged yet work with reassuring functionality. You get the sense this is a premium product.

There’s a choice of two engine options for the Citan. First up is the 108 CDI, which offers 74bhp and 180Nm of pulling power. For this engine the CO2 emissions are as low as 116g/km depending on configuration thanks to BlueEFFICIENCY technology, which includes clever battery and alternator management systems alongside stop/start and low rolling-resistance tyres. This tech also means it is also capable of between 61.4 and 62.8mpg.

For more power you’ll want the 109 CDI, which pushes out 89bhp and 200Nm. This version returns CO2 emissions as low as 112g/km when equipped with BlueEFFICIENCY technology.

On the road the engines are smooth and quiet when on the move. The stop/start system isn’t intrusive and it’s a very nice van to drive. It’s manoeuvrable too, with a turning circle of between 10.1 and 12.4 metres depending on body length.

You can specify the Driver’s Pack, which makes things even easier for the driver. It includes electric folding mirrors alongside a centre armrest with stowage compartment, air conditioning and crucially, parking sensors.