Mercedes-Benz Metris: Mid-size is right-sized

• Introduction of the "Mercedes-Benz Metris' nameplate for Canada and the U.S.
• New mid-size commercial van debuted at NTEA Work Truck Show on March 4, 2015
• Metris is now on sale, offering both passenger and cargo models
• The Mercedes-Benz Metris mid-size commercial van is positioned as "right-sized' with corresponding maximum cargo capacity and price positioning
• The Canadian MSRP for the Metris will be starting from $33,900 for the cargo van and $37,900 for the passenger van
• A powerful 4-cylinder turbocharged gas engine (208 hp/258 lb-ft) is coupled to a 7-speed automatic transmission
• Top service at dealerships, functionality, efficiency, comfort and safety are key pillars for all Mercedes-Benz Vans
• The V-Class luxury passenger variant is not planned for Canada or the U.S.

TORONTO, ON – The Mercedes-Benz Metris was introduced at the NTEA Work Truck Show in Indianapolis on Wednesday, March 4, 2015. This official launch presentation followed the "Mission: Metris' teaser campaign at SEMA in Las Vegas in November 2014, which featured four custom upfitted Metris concept vans. The Metris, which is now available, is the Canadian and American sibling of the Vito, which will remain the mid-size commercial van name for all other global  markets.

"The Mercedes-Benz Vans business has experienced double digit growth in Canada over the last few years. The Sprinter's success story is a clear indication that Canadians have embraced the Mercedes-Benz know-how that can be attributed to over 120 years of experience in the commercial vehicle sector. It is therefore a most timely and natural progression for Mercedes-Benz Canada and our dealer network to now expand our successful vans business in Canada with the addition of the Mercedes-Benz Metris', said Tim A. Reuss, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada.

The Metris is a right-sized vehicle with a unique combination of full-size van cargo capacity and payload but with the dimensions designed to thrive in urban environments. From skilled crafts and trades, to retail, service providers, shuttle services and taxis, the Metris is truly the right-sized vehicle. With up to 1,135 kg of cargo capacity, the Mercedes-Benz Metris is already strongly positioned as it offers over 29% more cargo volume and up to 67% more payload than other mid-size commercial vans currently available in Canada. The cargo van's Canadian MSRP starts at $33,900 while the passenger van's starts at $37,900. The Mercedes-Benz Metris promises to easily fit into underground parking garages in urban areas, and can also meet the needs of those who work out of their homes and have a need to garage the van. It also shares many of the functional and efficient characteristics of the Sprinter.

Pablo de la Peña, Vice-President of the Mercedes-Benz Vans division in Canada, added, "The Metris will be following in the footsteps of the Sprinter as the second model offered by Mercedes-Benz Vans in Canada. We are looking forward to setting new benchmarks in the mid-size commercial van segment by means of the Metris' unmatched combination of cargo capacity, payload and efficiency'.

All Mercedes-Benz dealers will sell and service the Metris. This new innovative mid- size commercial van is available with a powerful 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine with 208 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, mated to a refined, efficient, and robust 7- speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive. This  powertrain  application, with optional ECO start/stop, was developed specifically for the Canadian and American markets to meet the needs of the mid-size commercial van segment, and comes with a service interval of up to 25,000  kilometres.

Advanced safety features are a hallmark for any Mercedes-Benz vehicle, and the Metris will feature 6 airbags for the cargo variant and 8 airbags for the passenger variant. All models will feature standard ATTENTION ASSIST, Crosswind Assist, and load-adaptive ESP. Optional safety features will include Active Parking Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, PARKTRONIC, Collision Prevention Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and a rear view camera. Many of the car-like interior features include premium touches and overall fit and finish. Large cupholders have also been added to the centre console to meet North American customer needs on long-hauls or local driving.

The exceptionally low fuel consumption of the Metris is not attributable solely to the engine technology. The engineers at Mercedes-Benz have also fine-tuned the transmission, low-friction rear axle, eletromechanical steering and auxiliary units for maximum economy.

About  Mercedes-Benz Canada

Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of the Mercedes-Benz and AMG passenger vehicles, Mercedes-Benz Vans and smart.

Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. employs approximately 1,500 people in 23 locations across Canada. Through a nationwide network of 13 Mercedes-Benz owned retail operations and 44 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 40,555 vehicles in 2014. This represents the best year ever for the company and has positioned Mercedes-Benz as the top luxury manufacturer in Canada.

Further information from Mercedes-Benz is available on the internet at:

www.media.mercedes-benz.ca