2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris Review
2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris Review





+123
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Edmunds' Expert Review

byCalvin Kim
Vehicle Test Engineer
Calvin Kim is an automotive journalist at Edmunds.Pros
- Cargo area is larger than those of small-van competitors
- Payload and towing ratings are at the top of small-van class
- More maneuverable than full-size vans
Cons
- Premium fuel is required
- More expensive than the budget-friendly competition
What’s new
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris is available in a new extended-wheelbase version for the Passenger van model. A rearview camera is also standard for all Metris vans this year.
Vehicle overview
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris is unique because it's the only van on the market that's sized between small and full-size commercial vans. As such, the Sprinter offers enhanced capability compared to those small vans but a more maneuverable size than the larger full-size vans.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris Worker Cargo 3dr Minivan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.92 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$219/mo for Metris Worker Cargo
Metris Worker Cargo
vs
$211/mo
Avg. Large Minivan
It features a no-nonsense and functional interior and is available in two overall configurations: cargo and passenger. Both configurations are available in different wheelbases and rear door configurations, and the passenger version can be equipped as a five-, seven- or eight-seater.
The cargo version is available with tie-downs, interior panels, and upfitter packages that are designed for the wear and tear of commercial transportation duty. And since it's a Mercedes, you can equip the Metris with an array of upscale features, including simulated leather upholstery, automatic climate control, blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning.
There is one hurdle to ownership, though, and it's the price. If you're a fleet operator only interested in the bottom line, another small van might suit you better. But overall we think the Mercedes Metris provides enough value to justify its asking price.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
7.6 / 10The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris is sized between small and full-size commercial vans, features a functional interior, and is available in cargo and passenger configurations. It's more expensive than some rivals, but we think the Metris provides enough capability to justify its asking price.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 7-speed automatic | FWD).
Scorecard
Overall | 7.6 / 10 |
Driving | 8.0 |
Comfort | 7.0 |
Interior | 7.5 |
Utility | 9.0 |
Technology | 7.0 |
Driving
8.0The Metris is easily the top performer in its class, with a strong engine, a smooth-shifting transmission and impressive brakes. It handles well, too.
Acceleration
8.0The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is energetic compared to what you'll find in other small cargo vans. Our test Metris zipped from zero to 60 mph in a quick 7.9 seconds. The seven-speed automatic offers Comfort, Eco and Manual shift modes.
Braking
8.0During everyday driving, the Metris' brake pedal is progressive and easy to modulate. In our panic-braking test, the 4,200-pound Metris stopped from 60 mph in 119 feet, the best stopping distance in the segment.
Steering
8.0The precise steering imbues this van with some nice qualities. It feels nimble around town and stable on the highway. We just wish the hard and seemingly unfinished plastic of the steering wheel was more pleasant to grip.
Handling
8.0We don't set our handling expectations very high for cargo vans like the Metris. But the Metris is far from sloppy and even somewhat fun to wheel around, which makes city driving much less of a chore.
Drivability
8.0The engine is responsive, and the transmission downshifts quickly to help slow the van smoothly to a stop. The optional auto stop-start system operates smoothly in the background. Crosswinds are noticeable despite the load-adaptive stability control with Crosswind Assist.
Comfort
7.0Road and tire noise is pervasive on the freeway. Around town it's more forgivable. Comfort is otherwise commendable. The manually adjustable seats are comfortable enough for longer stints, the ride is agreeable, and the climate controls are easy to operate.
Seat comfort
8.0Considering the simplicity of the driver's seat, it is surprisingly comfortable. There's a decent amount of lateral support for a cargo van. The basic manual seat adjustments, however, don't offer much personalization.
Ride comfort
8.0The Metris is a fairly comfortable cruiser and handles road imperfections, both large and small, without complaint. We noticed little difference in ride quality between driving the van empty versus driving it filled with several hundred pounds of equipment.
Noise & vibration
6.0As might be expected, the empty cargo area booms and rattles with road and tire noise. A thin floor and thin walls are to blame. In the wind it wooshes like a washing machine filling with water. Fill the space with gear and the drone diminishes considerably but not completely.
Climate control
8.0Our test van was equipped with an optional automatic air-conditioning feature. Set the dial to a given temperature and lock the car. At unlock, the air conditioning cools the cabin in anticipation of your arrival without using the engine. The climate controls themselves are simple to use.
Interior
7.5Most people will find it easy to climb into and out of this van. But there are seating position limitations once behind the wheel. Headroom and elbow room are ample. As can be expected from the Cargo model, the lack of windows reduces outward visibility, even with the available rearview camera.
Ease of use
8.0The Metris uses switches we've seen in past Mercedes products, so most controls are straightforward and easy to use. The dials simplify functions where possible, though it could be argued that there are too many buttons alongside the navigation screen. All controls are easy to reach.
Getting in/getting out
8.0The step-in height for this van is just 18.5 inches, which means that is as high as you have to lift a foot to get in. That puts the seat bottom at just the right height to slide in and out easily. The flat seat cushions help even more.
Driving position
7.0The seat-to-steering wheel position will be awkward for some drivers, and the manual seat adjustments don't afford a ton of adjustment. The steering wheel tilts, but without the benefit of a telescopic adjustment, there is little opportunity to adjust the seat to your exact liking.
Roominess
8.0The two front seats are the only obstacles to a completely open interior, so roominess is not a problem. Plenty of headroom and elbow room up front. If there is anything we'd like more of, it's legroom. A somewhat long dashboard and tall windshield add a sense of spaciousness for front passengers.
Visibility
6.5The Metris Cargo is a panel van, which means no windows and poor visibility. A rearview camera is optional, but it's aimed too low, providing a visible range from the bumper to a few feet behind it. The front pillars are wide and create blind spots, an issue especially evident when turning.
Quality
8.0Our Metris test van appeared well-built inside and out. We heard no squeaks or rattles aside from those inherent, and acceptable, in a vehicle built without soundproofing in mind. Frequently touched surfaces were of smooth material except for the rough-finished steering wheel.
Utility
9.0Many features are available at additional cost to customize the cargo area, though small-item storage is limited. The same can be said for other cargo-specific vans. Overall, it's a very capable van for hauling and getting work done. In the area of utility, the Metris is as capable as its peers.
Small-item storage
7.0Small-item storage is limited for front passengers. There are two in-dash bins, two cupholders, and clipboard-size cutouts on top of the dashboard.
Cargo space
8.0The Metris offers cargo area features such as variable cargo tie-down positions, partitions and LED lighting. Its 186 cubic feet of cargo volume rises slightly on the extended-wheelbase version to 199 cubic feet. You can get a rear liftgate or swing-out rear cargo doors that open 270 degrees.
Towing
10.0The Metris Cargo has a 5,000-pound towing capacity. There isn't another van in this segment that comes close. It is also prewired for trailer use and has a 3.46 axle ratio. A trailer hitch is sold as optional equipment.
Hauling
10.0The Metris Cargo has a 2,502-pound payload capacity, while its peers have a 1,800-pound capacity or lower. It also has a best-in-class gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 6,724 pounds.
Technology
7.0There is just enough technology in the Metris to get by. Nothing is cutting-edge. But for a workhorse cargo van, the Metris has about everything you'll need.
Audio & navigation
7.0The Metris Cargo covers the basics: a 5.8-inch navigation screen, AM/FM radio, a USB port and auxiliary jack. The navigation functionality is of entry-level quality but feels sufficient in this application. The same can be said of the five-speaker audio system up front.
Smartphone integration
7.0Bluetooth is standard in the Metris. Phone pairing is fairly logical, and it is easy enough to use the hands-free feature without too much distraction from the road.
Voice control
6.0Our test vehicle did not have voice controls. Navigation voice controls are an option through the Multi-Function Wheel package, but they do not work for phone controls. Phone-based features such as Siri can be used as a work-around.
Which Metris does Edmunds recommend?
Picking a Metris comes down to selecting a version that best supports your business needs. The Worker versions are appealing because of their reduced pricing.
2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris models
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris is available in four versions and can be outfitted for cargo duty (with a completely open space behind the front bucket seats) or as a five-, seven- or eight-seat passenger van. The Metris Cargo is the one with an expansive cargo area, while the Passenger fills that space with two rows of seating. There are also Worker Cargo and Worker Passenger versions that cost less than their non-Worker counterparts in exchange for a shorter list of available features. An extended-wheelbase version is offered for the Metris Cargo only.
Powering the Metris is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (208 horsepower, 258 pound-feet of torque) that drives the rear wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include 17-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, remote locking and unlocking, air conditioning, wheel-mounted shift paddles, Bluetooth, and a five-speaker audio system with a USB port.
Some additional standard features depend on which Metris you buy. A 5.8-inch color screen is included on standard models and optional on Worker models, which otherwise come with a simple monochrome display. Passenger and Worker Passenger models also get a rearview mirror, rear air conditioning and a nine-speaker audio system. All Metris vans have sliding rear doors. Farther back, you'll find 270-degree swing-out rear cargo doors standard on the Metris Cargo. All others get 180-degree rear cargo doors.
The list of available option packages for Worker Cargo is relatively short. You can get the Convenience package (automatic wipers, heated mirrors, a rearview camera, cruise control, the color display and LED cargo area lighting) and the Utility package (Convenience package plus roof rails, a rearview mirror, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, a driver information display, a heated rear window, blind-spot monitoring, rails on the cargo floor and sides, and tie-downs).
On the Worker Passenger, there's also the Appearance package (Convenience package plus alloy wheels, body-colored bumpers, roof rails, a rear liftgate instead of the swing-out cargo doors, a heated rear window and simulated leather upholstery) and Comfort package (all contents of the Utility and Appearance packages plus power-sliding rear doors).
Options are broken apart into more cost-effective packages in the Cargo and Passenger models, allowing buyers to mix and match the features they want. Notable combinations include the Cold Weather package (heated front seats, a heated windshield washer system and an upgraded heater); the Premium Safety package (Utility package plus lane departure warning, forward collision warning and automated parallel parking); and the Driver Comfort package (a comfort-tuned suspension and upgraded seats with lumbar support).
Many of the options listed above are offered as stand-alone choices, as are a trailer hitch, rear privacy glass, chrome interior trim and a backup alarm. Mercedes' MasterUpfitter program allows buyers to further customize Metris Cargo vans to their business needs.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris.
5 star(35%)
4 star(31%)
3 star(10%)
2 star(17%)
1 star(7%)
29 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
Road trip review
Norfla71, 07/29/2017
2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger 4dr Minivan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7A)
Van is borrowed from my mother, who put just under 3,000 miles on it in about 6 months. Taking a trip with the family for 3 weeks, starting in Jacksonville, FL, going through DC, Hershey, Columbus and Dayton, Ohio, Dearborn, Michigan and back through NC before returning home; about , 2,000 miles roundtrip. First leg from Jax to DC, about 750 miles non-stop. After 4 hours needed to get a … seat cushion for extra support. Being based on a cargo van none of the seats are very comfortable, even with the optional "drivers comfort" package; rear seats are atrocious (zero adjustability; about as utilitarian as church pews). However, both kids got their own seats for a change, so little complaining. Otherwise, dated infotainment worked for my needs, and navigation got us where we needed. Powertrain is excellent; much more useable power then expected. Engine and transmission work especially well together to get and keep van moving. Seem-less shifting if left alone; however, use the paddles to downshift and the trans gets confused for a second, not sure if it needs to be in higher or lower gear. Once sorted acceleration is great; cruise control is very responsive. We hit the usual DC area rush hour traffic and the van made it much easier to navigate, much less stress. MPG is impressive, getting about 25 overall on 87 octane, and have been running it the entire trip without issue. Anyone considering one of these keep the commercial roots in mind; any of the minivans or 3 row crossovers would be much better suited for comfort; however, for an overall package, you can't beat the overall utility. Finally, I got stuck in a dead end street, about 2 lanes wide. Not wanting to back up into a busy street I turned that van completely around without backing up; the turn circle is so tight you need to be mindful of curves. Backup camera could be better (limited field of vision, not very wide or deep behind) but the lines are helpful, and kept us from damage. For a commercial van it's quiet and comfortable; very smooth ride even on rough Maryland roads. I also like the ability to sweep out the floor and wipe off the optional MBtex vinyl seats.
3 out of 5 stars
Cuts off in the middle of High way
Raquel Montalvo, 10/11/2018
2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger 4dr Minivan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7A)
Dont know the reason dealer didn't take serious,but I rented this van 1 month ago cut off on highway they said nothing wrong with van I insisted they change van they did, I drove new one for a couple weeks cut off on bridge with van full of people with alot of traffic around us it scared my riders I dont trust van now Dont trust they would rent a Mercedes Benz Metris that put me in … harm's way.I asked other drivers why they changed van same issue and mechanic were saying transmission issue to many.I drove van 30 days all types of roads highways something needs to be evaluated here.
5 out of 5 stars
Functional not plush
PWRving2013, 05/01/2016
2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger 4dr Minivan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7A)
This is a functional, versatile van. We love the clean, minimalistic styling inside and outside. Rear wheel drive makes for lighter steering feel. Great towing and load capacity. Very peppy and fuel efficient powertrain. Non-fatigueing, comfortable to drive, seating sits up higher. I have had large vans, and minivans. This a good size. Overall, not a family hauler. A great multi-use … vehicle for camping, day trips, home center purchases and daily driver. We recently got rid of our diesel cars. This runs on regular fuel.
2 out of 5 stars
Just Okay - Oddities Abound!
DarrenS, 02/11/2020
2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Worker Cargo 3dr Minivan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7A)
I own the utility van "worker" edition (bare bones folks!).
What to like:
VERY comfy driver seat and ride for a utility type van.
Integrated bluetooth makes smart phone integration easy.
Nice intermediate sized van for tool storage -perfect size -wise for my construction work
Turbo makes accelerating at on ramps EZ for small engine rig
Good fuel economy
What not to … like:
>>terrible stock tires (Hankook) - DREADFULLY undermatched for vehicle
>>poor suspension - van unstable high speeds
>>absolutely needs larger diameter wheels to make it a useful utility vehicle
>>gear shift is where windshield wipers should be - classic Mercedes being "different"
>>windshield wiper is on same lever as turn signal- constantly accidentally actuating wipers when signaling for a turn (come on guys, fix this crap!)
>>transmission pretty herky-jerky until fully warmed up
>>light on/off switch constantly bumped by knee upon exit, changes light setting
>>only operational USB plug awkward spot under console
>>difficult to add interior panels in rear compartment unless purchasing MB brand - $$
>>Expensive oil changes $300-400
>>Wheel alignment only done at specialty providers ($$$)
>>$300 for trailer wiring harness if not done as factory install (!!)
I will never buy a MB of any sort again. They do things differently just to be... different. Why put the gear shift where every other maker puts the windshield wipers?? Leaves you fumbling at the controls. The gear labeling is mysterious as well. The light switch thing is just annoying - poor R&D. My hope is that this vehicle needs few repairs down the road. Perhaps most importantly, the suspension/wheels situation makes this a very poor choice for anything but the lightest duty of worker type vehicle. If these were beefed up, MB could really be on to something here. Will look at other options for next van. Really wanted to like this vehicle, but it is a daily struggle.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris, so we've included reviews for other years of the Metris since its last redesign.
2018 Metris Highlights
Worker Cargo
Base MSRP | $25,995 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 22 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $219/month |
Seating | 2 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 186.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Metris models:
- Hill Start Assist
- Prevents the Metris from rolling backward on a hill from a stop when the driver releases the brake and presses the accelerator.
- Blind-Spot Assist
- Displays a visual warning if a vehicle is in your blind spot. Sounds an alert if you move into a space occupied by another vehicle.
- Collision Prevention Assist
- Sounds an alert if the Metris is approaching the vehicle in front too quickly.
People who viewed this also viewed
1.0 average Rating out of 1 reviews. |
Starting at $43,500 |
4.3 average Rating out of 11 reviews. |
Starting at $36,135 |
Starting at $32,790 |
Related Used 2018 Mercedes-Benz Metris info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Toyota Tacoma 2020 Review
- Toyota Tundra 2020 Review
- Toyota Tacoma 2021 Review
- Toyota Tundra 2021 Review
- Toyota Sienna 2021 Review
Shop similar models
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used Mercedes-Benz Metris 2021
- Used Mercedes-Benz Metris 2017
- Used Mercedes-Benz Metris 2018
- Used Mercedes-Benz Metris 2020
- Used Mercedes-Benz Metris 2019
- Used Mercedes-Benz Metris 2016
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- 2022 Lamborghini Aventador
- Metcedes Eqe SUV
- 2024 BMW i4
- 2022 BMW 4 Series
- 2022 S6
- Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 2024
- 2023 Audi TT
- Jaguar F-TYPE 2023
- Audi A6 allroad 2024
- Mercedes Cle
Research recent models from same make
- 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
- Mercedes Eqb
- 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
- 2024 GLS-Class
- 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
- 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB
- 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
- 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
- Mercedes-Benz G-Class 2022
Research similar vehicles
- Siennas
- Honda Odyssey
- Van Chrysler Pacifica
- 2023 Chrysler Pacifica
- Carnival Kia Carnival
- 2023 Toyota Sienna
- Honda Odyssey 2023
- 2022 Chrysler Pacifica
- Toyota Sienna 2022
- Promaster City
Other models
- Used Honda Ridgeline in La Grange, IL
- Used Ford Explorer in Kalamazoo, MI
- Used Lexus SC-400 in Stockbridge, GA
- New Toyota Grand-Highlander for Sale in Chippewa Falls, WI
- Used Lexus RX-500H in Festus, MO
- Used Toyota Corolla-Cross-Hybrid in Houston, TX
- Used Toyota Prius-C in Salisbury, MD
- Used Hyundai Venue in Floral Park, NY
- Used Lexus Es in Westminster, CO
- Used Ford E-Series-Van in Punta Gorda, FL