Mercedes-Benz reveals the T-Class. It is a small van for families, a premium approach on the Renault Kangoo-based Citan LCV, that the carmaker revealed last year.
The new Mercedes-Benz T-Class gets standard 16-inch wheels and optional17-inch alloys. Chrome details highlight the elegant style. The car also sports front and rear bumpers, but also mirror casings in the body color.
The model measures 4,498 millimeters (177 inches) in length, 1,859 millimeters (73.2 inches) in width, and 1,811 millimeters (71.3 inches) in height. Meanwhile, the 2,716 millimeters (106.9 inches) wheelbase secures generous space onboard, but makes it less spacious than the larger V-Class, for instance.
There will be the 7-inch touchscreen of the MBUX infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The driver will be able to check details regarding his trip on a 5.5-inch screen that will find room between the analog gauges.
Customers can also tick the boxes for ambient lighting, Neotex artificial leather, or Artico man-made leather upholstery. The climate controls strikingly resemble those on board Renault, Nissan and Dacia models.
A tall cabin and a tall boot make the model the perfect means of transportation for families with babies or/and with pets. The official gallery shows that a baby stroller fits standing in the boot. Can’t have that in an SUV or an estate now, can you? Furthermore, the sliding doors ease up the access, while the rear can accommodate three child seats. If necessary, the backrests of those seats fold down to set up a perfectly flat area. For extra practicality, customers can also order a split tailgate with an up to 180-degree opening.
There will also be an electric Mercedes-Benz T-Class
The Germans will offer the model both as ICE and electric versions. The latter will bear the EQT designation and will display looks inspired by those of the EQT concept. The entry-level version is the T160d with a 1.5-liter diesel engine with 95 PS (94 HP) and 230 Nm (170 lb-ft). Higher up in the range there is the T180d with 116 PS (114 HP) and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque. This one comes with the overpower and overtorque function that brings 121 PS and 295 Nm for a limited period of time.
The 1.3-liter petrol engine, also borrowed from the Nissan-Renault-Dacia portfolio, powers the T160, with 102 PS (101 HP) and 200 Nm (148 lb-ft). The range topper comes along with 131 PS (129 HP) and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft). A six-speed manual is standard. Customers can choose the seven-speed automatic DCT transmission for the diesels and the most powerful petrol version. All-wheel drive is standard.
In its home market, the new Mercedes-Benz T-Class will start below €30,000 ($approximately $32,000).
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