Mercedes-Benz has revealed the latest addition to its van range; the Citan is described as 'a professional urban van' and is set to compete with the dominant Volkswagen Caddy. Three wheelbase options are available and four engines. The official debut will take place at the IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in September.
Customers can choose from Compact, Long and Extra Long variants. One supercharged petrol and three turbodiesel engines are offered. Power output from the diesels ranges from 75- to 110hp with the petrol unit delivering 115hp. Five- or six-speed gearboxes take drive to the front wheels and are controlled by a 'joystick' lever on the centre console.
The styling is intended to be instantly recognisable as a Mercedes-Benz and also introduces a new family appearance. The three-pointed star sits in the centre of a grille with three perforated slats. The bonnet carries distinctive sculpted edges and the trapezoidal lower air intake apparently provides a visual link across the range, from the company's cars to the new Actros large truck.
Equipment includes 'Adaptive ESP', which combines anti-lock brakes, stability control and traction control. The system is designed to take vehicle load into account and Mercedes promises a driving experience that will make drivers accustomed to its Vito and Sprinter vans feel at home.
Details of which versions of the Citan are coming to Ireland will be announced closer to the model's launch.