Mercedes-Benz has previewed its new van-derived MPV and confirmed a 26 April reveal date.
A new van-based MPV is about to join the Mercedes-Benz line-up. Called the T-Class, the newcomer will have its digital premiere on 26 April at 2:00pm (CEST), and will provide the brand with a VW Caddy-rivalling vehicle that will sit below the current V-Class.
The T-Class has been developed alongside the closely-related Citan and Citan Tourer. As revealed in the announcement’s accompanying teaser image, the T-Class’ front end will feature very similar styling to its van cousin.
Mercedes bills the T-Class as a “premium small van for active lifestyles” that’s pitched at drivers “who need plenty of space, but still want to drive a vehicle with compact outer dimensions”. Mercedes-Benz Australia is yet to confirm the model locally.
The T-Class will feature twin sliding doors, and an upmarket cabin claimed to “bear the DNA of Mercedes”. Expect the car-maker’s latest MBUX infotainment system that includes its “Hey Mercedes” on-board assistant, plus class-leading levels of tech and connectivity.
A near production-ready version of the upcoming Mercedes T-Class was spotted testing on German roads back in 2020.
Featuring a dazzling camouflage, the late-stage prototype revealed the T-Class has a traditional van-shape silhouette but appears to have received more defined shoulders and wheelarches. It’s an attempt to ensure it remains recognisable as a Mercedes, even though beneath the skin the T-Class will be based on the same platform as the next Renault Kangoo and Nissan’s next small van.
The T-Class is once again being developed in co-operation with the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance, and the van’s platform is a modified version of that used in the latest Renault Megane.
Under the bonnet, the T-Class is expected to get petrol and diesel engines sourced from the Renault-Nissan Alliance, with the 1.5-litre diesel and 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol that are currently available in the Mercedes A-Class, Renault Kadjar and Nissan Qashqai both available.
A plug-in hybrid version is unlikely, but that’s only because an electric EQT version – previewed by a 2021 concept of the same name – is in development. When it arrives, the battery-powered small MPV should offer brisk acceleration and a range of around 240km.
Matt Robinson