Mercedes-Benz Metris van received updates for 2021

KUALA LUMPUR: Since its U.S. launch in 2015, the Mercedes-Benz Metris aka V-Class represents the epitome of a versatile mid-size van that serves a lot of purposes along with the advantage of easy fit into a parking garage. As the van enters the sixth year of existence, the Stuttgart-based company refreshed it with a bunch of new features that should keep it competitive for at least one more year.

Highlights for the facelift include an upgraded infotainment system, driver assistance systems as well as enhancements to the design.

Upfront, there is a new radiator grille, which features the three-pointed star in the middle surrounded by three black grained louvers. The customers can also opt for the grille in a chrome finish. 

Inside, the designers replaced the Tunja upholstery with the Caluma fabric, and brought in new air vents with a sporty turbine look positioned on each side of the instrument panel. The central dashboard boasts piano-lacquer framing, with the optional Chrome Package. The infotainment system now has a 7-inch touchscreen display supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Moreover, the adaptive cruise control and an optional navigation system providing live updates are also available for the first time.

A digital rearview mirror transmitting the image from an HDR camera in the rear window is also added. It provides clear visibility to the rear in all conditions not restricted by head restraints, passengers, or other obstacles. It also conveys a field of vision that is twice as wide as a conventional inside rearview mirror.

For 2021, the Mercedes Metris gets a new nine-speed automatic gearbox as standard in place of a seven-speed unit, although it is teamed up with the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine generating 208 horsepower and 350 Nm of peak torque. The transmission has sport and comfort settings, also it can be shifted manually through the steering wheel paddles. The rear-wheel-drive continues to be the only drive configuration.

Joining the existing safety bits are a tire pressure loss detection system, Active Parking Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and Lane Keeping Assist. The emergency call system and breakdown management are also there.

The new Mercedes-Benz Metris is expected to hit U.S. dealers in the first half of 2021.

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