2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris Expert Review

Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris is a new addition to the brand's commercial vehicle lineup.

Vehicle Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris is a midsize commercial vehicle that slots below the larger Sprinter and comes in a cargo variant or passenger model with capacity for up to eight passengers.

Overview

The 2016 Metris is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo I-4 rated at 208 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, and mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. When properly equipped, the van can tow up to 4,960 pounds of payload. Space in the cargo variant is generous with up to 186 cubic feet of volume and a payload capacity of up to 2,502 pounds. The passenger variant of the Metris, on the other hand, has 38 cubic feet of cargo volume and a maximum payload of 1,874 pounds. Both cargo and passenger versions of the Metris have a tight turning radius at 38.7 feet.

Safety

In addition to the standard dual front, front-side and window airbags, the 2016 Metris also comes with Crosswind Assist and Attention Assist, which monitors the driver's driving patterns. Blind spot warning, collision prevention assist and lane keeping assist are available as optional extras.

Trims, Packages, and What's Standard

Standard features included on the base 2016 Metris include 17-inch steel wheels, a 270-degree opening rear doors for the cargo variant, fixed rear windows, and an infotainment system with a 5.8-inch screen. Available features include electric sliding doors, automatic climate control, navigation, active park assist, Parktronic parking sensors, a rearview camera, engine start/stop, and a multi-function steering wheel.

What We Think

In a First Drive review, we noted that due to its smaller size, the Metris handles better than the larger Sprinter and doesn't feel as top-heavy. Steering feel, on the other hand, isn't sharp while the interior is sparse and comes with an outdated infotainment system. The Metris rides surprisingly well for a commercial vehicle and doesn't get upset that easily by road imperfections. However, the Metris' tall proportions mean throwing it into corners is out of the question especially at high speeds due to its two-ton weight and height.