Mercedes-Benz Citan (2013 – 2021) Review

Mercedes-Benz Citan (2013 – 2021) At A Glance

3/5

+Refined and comfortable, big improvement on the Renault Kangoo it's based on, 109 CDI BlueEfficiency returns a claimed 65.7mpg.

-Rival vans are cheaper.

Mercedes-Benz hasn't had a small van before so rather than start from scratch with the Citan, its alternative to the likes of the Volkswagen Caddy, the manufacturer worked with Renault.

That explains why the Citan's profile looks familiar - it's actually based on a Kangoo but this is much more than just a rebadged Renault. Mercedes-Benz has made big changes throughout and the result is small van that's just as good as its larger Vito and Sprinter models.

It's available in three lengths and alongside the standard and long wheelbase models, Mercedes-Benz is offering the compact version which is no longer available in the Kangoo range. As well as the standard panel van there is a Dualiner crew van and interestingly a Traveliner (later renamed Tourer) which is essentially a small people carrier.

All versions drive very well with nicely weighted steering and a comfortable ride, even when fully laden, but what really shines through is the impressive refinement. Make no mistake this feels every inch a Mercedes-Benz van.

The mainstay engine is a 1.5-litre diesel which comes in varying outputs of 75PS, 90PS and 110PS. There is also a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 114PS. The most economical model is the 109 CDI BlueEfficiency which averages a claimed 65.7mpg with CO2 of 112g/km. The two lower powered diesel models have five-speed manual gearboxes while the larger diesel and the petrol engine both come with a six-speed.

The Citan is by no means the cheapest small van around - in fact it's one of the most expensive - but it does feel a cut above the competition in terms of quality and refinement. If you spend all day behind the wheel you'll appreciate the difference. The cabin feels robust, it handles well and it's safe too with all models getting an advanced ESP system as standard.

Used Buying Guide - Mercedes-Benz Citan

It might be a Germanic take of an inexpensive French commercial but Mercedes-Benz’s Citan feels worthy of the badge on its grille. Used it represents a good buy, and if you keep it serviced and well maintained it should prove inexpensive to run, too.

Read the buying guide here >>

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Ask Honest John

The ECU in my van has failed. Should I get it repaired or just replace it?

"I bought a Mercedes Citan 109 CDI long wheelbase panel van, registered 2018, in Feb 2019. It had approximately 8,000 miles on the clock. It now has approx. 13,000 miles on the clock. Recently the van wouldn’t start and the garage has diagnosed an ECU unit failure. They are trying a company that might be able to repair it as a new one is quoted as being £1500 plus VAT. Should the ECU unit fail on such a low mileage or can they fail at any time? Is it worth trying to get it repaired — will it last or should I just bite the bullet and get a new one fitted? I might be tempted to trade it in after that. Can you recommend a small van that might prove to be more reliable? Many thanks for any help you can give."
I suspect the ECU problems are linked to the vehicle being left standing for long periods outside. It's possible water was getting into the unit or the battery has gone flat and someone has jump-started the van incorrectly and fried the ECU. It may be possible to get a refurb ECU from an independent Mercedes-Benz specialist or breaker's yard. If you trade the van in then consider a Vauxhall Combo, Volkswagen Caddy or Ford Transit Connect.
Answered by Dan Powell

What cars offer removable seats?

"Can you please tell me which cars have completely removable rear seats? This is my chief requirement in picking a car."
The Skoda Karoq has this feature because it was a popular feature of the Yeti. Otherwise, van-based MPVs such as the Citroen Berlingo and Peugeot Partner (new ones on the way), Renault Kangoo combi, Mercedes-Benz Citan, Fiat Doblo combi, Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Life.
Answered by Honest John

Need a low cost running car, with a large boot for my cycling business - what do you advise?

"I've started my own up-cycling business and I don't want to use a third party. My largest piece is 54-inches long and 45-inches high and pretty heavy, so needs to be able carry considerable weight. Considered a pick up truck but heard they are costly to run and it would also have to be a double cab. Hope you can help advise me."
You're only talking 4' 6" here, but 3' 9" high. I think your best bet is a Citroen Berlingo, Peugeot Partner, Renault Kangoo, Fiat Doblo, Mercedes-Benz Citan, Vauxhall Combo, Ford Connect van or combi (with windows). All have low load floors. Combis such as the Berlingo Multispace tend to be cheaper to insure and the rear seats can be folded or totally removed.
Answered by Honest John

Should I buy a Peugeot Partner Tepee or a Mercedes-Benz Citan?

"I'm thinking of buying a diesel Peugeot Partner Tepee automatic 1.6 or a Mercedes-Benz Citan Traveliner manual diesel as a compromise between a car and a van. I'd appreciate your thoughts about these vehicles."
Don't buy an automated manual anything. Though the Citan is really a Renault Kangoo it comes over a bit posher than the Tepee, and the Tepee and Citroen Berlingo are up for replacement later this year anyway.
Answered by Honest John
More Questions

What does a Mercedes-Benz Citan (2013 – 2021) cost?