Mercedes-Benz has taken the covers off its new T-Class minivan and hopes to take a few sales away from the Volkswagen Caddy.

The Mercedes-Benz T-Class is an upmarket take on the commercially-focused Citan. Both are based on the Renault Kangoo, and will feature both internal combustion engine power and electrification. The T-Class will be positioned as a luxury rival to the Volkswagen Caddy.

The T-Class is said to enhance the commercial platform with upgraded levels of comfort, tech and safety equipment. The transition from commercial to luxury small van is not easy, but Mercedes-Benz has given the T-Class some upmarket touches like colour-coded bodywork, chrome detailing, luxury grille and so on.

Physically, the new T-Class is 4,5 metres long, 1,8 metres wide, 1,8 metres tall and features a wheelbase of 2,7 metres. Right now, Mercedes-Benz is offering the newcomer in 5-seater configuration, but the Stuttgart-based company has said it will be launching a longer wheelbase model with 7 seats.

Inside, the cabin features design elements from the Mercedes-Benz compact range, like the MBUX 7-inch touchscreen, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay connectivity, but we’re surprised there’s no digital dashboard. Standard kit looks generous with keyless-go, Artico leather trim and so on. Interestingly, if you look closely, you can spot climate control switchgear from Renault Nissan Alliance. Safety kit is said to range from 7 airbags and advanced driving assistance systems like Distronic and Active Steering Assist.

The main benefit behind the compact MPV is the practicality. The sliding doors provide easy access to the second row of seats, and the boot is substantially large. From an engine point of view, Mercedes-Benz is offering the T-Class with a choice of either petrol or diesel engines.

The diesel motor is a 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine and its available in two states of tune. T160d has 70 kW and 260 Nm, the T180d 85 kW and 270 Nm. For the petrol fans, a 1.3-litre turbocharged is on offer in two states of tune, with the T160 offering 75 kW and 200 Nm and the T180 has 96 kW and 240 Nm.

Customers will be able to specify either a manual gearbox or an automatic transmission. At this stage, there’s no confirmation for South African market introduction, but we understand that right-hand drive production is confirmed with the UK market set to receive units.

Further Reading

Volkswagen Caddy Launch Review

Mercedes-Benz EQT preview