The new Citan, unveiled by Daimler in August, has won the 2022 International Van of the Year (IVOTY) title. In the 30 years since the award, this is the fourth award Mercedes-Benz has received.
The award for the best vehicle in the light truck segment has been awarded annually since 1992. The competition jury currently includes 25 leading European journalists who tested each nominee. Citan was recognized as the best in its class among its fourteen competitors with its compact external dimensions, impressive load capacity, wide range of applications and safety standards.
Citan is widely adaptable to a variety of delivery and service modes (Panel VAN) as well as passenger transport (Tourer). Compared to the previous model, Citan's design has become more balanced and sensual. Wide-opening sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle, as well as low thresholds, provide easy access to the cabin and cargo area. Also, compared to the previous model, even with the short-wheelbase version, the new Citan offers much more space than its predecessor. For example, the cargo compartment of the Panel Van is 3.05 meters long and can hold two euro pallets one after the other.
The new Citan's engine range consists of three diesel and two petrol models. They all have great handling and fuel economy. All engines are equipped with the ECO start / stop function. In addition to the six-speed manual transmission, the most powerful diesel and petrol models are also available with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 85 kW diesel engine in the Panel Van is equipped with a power and torque boost function that can temporarily deliver up to 89 kW and 295 Nm of torque. This greatly simplifies overtaking maneuvers.
In terms of safety standards, the durable structure of the body with energy-absorbing scattering paths should be noted. In addition to the statutory ABS and ESP systems, the new Citan is also equipped with a side wind turbine, the ATTENTION ASSIST fatigue warning system and other auxiliary systems. For example, the Citan Tourer comes standard with Active Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist and Speed Limit Assist, as well as Active Brake Assist, which can dramatically reduce braking distances in the event of an accident.
All of these auxiliary systems, supported by sensors and cameras, monitor traffic and surroundings and can alert and assist the driver if necessary. Of course, many other driving aids are available on request, including the DISTRONIC active distance assist system, which can automatically take over in traffic jams, and the active steering assistant, which helps the driver stay in the center of the Citan lane.
The Citan Panel Van comes standard with six airbags - front driver and front passenger airbags, window airbags and chest side airbags. The Citan Tourer comes standard with a central airbag between the driver's and front passenger's seats that opens in the event of a severe collision.
Like its big brother, the Sprinter, and Mercedes-Benz personal car models, the new Citan can optionally be equipped with the intuitive infotainment system MBUX (Mercedes Benz User Experience).
