22 MPG combined might elicit groans from a Prius owner, but for commercial vans, especially one doing the demanding work of the United States Postal Service, it’s a compromise reflecting capability and purpose-built design. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz Metris (US Postal Long) 2.0L 4-cyl isn’t about hypermiling; it’s about delivering mail efficiently and reliably across America.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 20 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway reflect the Metris’s intended use and its powertrain calibration. City driving, with constant stop-and-go, impacts fuel economy. The 2.0L four-cylinder engine, turbocharged for adequate power even when fully loaded, works with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. This transmission helps optimize fuel economy on the highway, allowing the engine to run at lower RPMs when cruising. However, the van’s size and weight, combined with frequent stops on postal routes, prevent much higher highway numbers. It’s a balance between utility and efficiency made to optimize fleet fuel costs with vehicles that rack up city miles.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz Metris (US Postal Long) is $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. For businesses like the USPS managing large fleets, this is a crucial data point. While individual fuel prices may vary based on location and time of year, this EPA estimate provides a standardized benchmark for comparing the running costs of different vehicles. The potential to manage operational costs makes the Metris attractive for commercial entities.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized test, real-world fuel economy for the Metris will change based on several factors. Cargo weight is significant. A heavily loaded van will consume more fuel than an empty one. Driving style is another key variable. Aggressive acceleration and braking will lead to lower MPG figures. Terrain matters as well. Hilly routes will demand more from the engine, impacting fuel economy, and specialized upfits commonly used on postal vehicles, aftermarket HVAC and electrical components, affect MPG. Smart driving habits are crucial for fleet managers who need to keep operating costs in check.

How it compares

Compared to other vans, the Metris’s fuel economy is a mixed bag. The Ford Transit Connect achieves about 26 MPG combined with its 2.0L engine, making it more fuel-efficient. Larger vans like the Ford Transit 150, with its base 3.5L V6, only hits around 17 MPG combined. The Ram ProMaster City nets approximately 24 MPG combined. Therefore, the Metris is in the middle, trading some fuel economy for greater payload capacity and the Mercedes-Benz brand, all of which factor into fleet decisions. To see all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, review our MPG information. And for a more detailed look at the Metris, compare the METRIS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is important for optimizing fuel economy. Ensure the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Routine oil changes and air filter replacements also help smooth engine operation and efficiency.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a few seconds, it’s more efficient to turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to be restarted frequently without causing significant wear and tear. The start-stop (or auto stop) feature on some vehicles is perfect for this.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic flow. Avoid harsh acceleration and braking, which waste fuel. Maintain a steady speed whenever possible. By anticipating traffic patterns, you can reduce the need for abrupt stops and starts, improving fuel economy.

Consider route optimization. Good route planning minimizes unnecessary mileage and reduces the number of stops and starts, improving fuel efficiency. Consider traffic patterns and avoid congested areas. Even reducing total distance traveled each day by 5-10 percent will add up over the year.

Lighten the load if possible. Carrying extra weight decreases fuel economy. Remove any tools or equipment that are not essential for your route. Even a small weight reduction can contribute to fuel savings over time.