21 MPG combined might not sound impressive. But the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris (US Postal Long) is a workhorse van specifically configured for the demands of the United States Postal Service. The MPG figure balances capability with a degree of relative frugality. This isn’t a vehicle designed for weekend errands; it’s built for constant duty, stop-and-go delivery routes, and carrying substantial payloads. The USPS made a deliberate choice on this model, knowing its strengths outweigh any fuel-sipping alternatives.

City and highway performance

The EPA’s individual ratings offer further insight into where the Metris is effective, and where it’s less efficient. A 19 MPG city rating reflects the reality of its operating environment: frequent stops, starts, and low-speed maneuvers. A 25 MPG highway figure showcases the responsiveness of the 2.0L turbocharged engine and nine-speed transmission. It is capable of maintaining decent fuel economy on longer stretches between deliveries. Don’t expect that highway number to consistently hold up if the van is fully loaded or battling strong headwinds, which are common scenarios for postal routes.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris (US Postal Long) at $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Your actual fuel expenses will vary depending on local fuel prices, driving habits, and the specific demands of your delivery route. The USPS undoubtedly factors fuel costs heavily into its total cost of ownership calculations. They balance them against the Metris’s reliability, cargo capacity, and driver ergonomics for long days behind the wheel.

Real-world expectations

Expect the real-world MPG of the Metris to fluctuate depending on the driver, the load, and the route. A lead-footed driver running a hilly, congested urban route will likely see numbers closer to the city rating (or even lower). A more conservative driver on a flatter, less congested route might see highway numbers replicated in the real world. Payload affects fuel economy; a van loaded with heavy packages will consume far more fuel than one running empty. The Metris, driven gently with lighter loads, can better approach its EPA estimates.

How it compares

Benchmarking the Metris against other vans reveals its efficiency in context. The Ford Transit Connect, a smaller van, achieves around 26 MPG combined with its 2.0L engine. The larger Ford Transit, with its 3.5L V6, sees closer to 17 MPG combined. A Ram ProMaster City, at 24 MPG combined, offers a closer comparison to the Metris. However, each van has tradeoffs in cargo capacity, payload, and other features. Direct comparisons are imperfect given how the long wheelbase Metris is configured for USPS use specifically. For example, the USPS probably chose not to use the smaller ProMaster City, because it couldn’t accommodate all the packages that must fit into the cargo area of the delivery van.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth acceleration and braking are critical. Avoid aggressive launches and hard stops. The Metris is not intended to be sporty, and gentle driving style will minimize fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace instead of repeatedly accelerating and decelerating.

Tire pressure plays a significant role in rolling resistance. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure specified on the door jamb. Underinflated tires increase friction and thus reduce fuel economy. Properly inflated tires also improve handling and tire life.

Minimize idling time. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Excessive idling consumes fuel needlessly, especially in urban delivery environments where short stops are frequent. It also reduces engine life and increases emissions.

Proper cargo management can also contribute to better MPG. Distribute weight evenly within the van to maintain optimal balance. Avoid overloading the vehicle beyond its specified weight capacity, as this puts extra strain on the engine and reduces fuel efficiency.

Regular servicing, including oil changes and air filter replacements, are important to the METRIS MPG across all years. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Be sure to check all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.