21 MPG combined is a figure that won’t excite or disappoint most 2022 Mercedes-Benz Metris (Cargo Van, LWB) 2.0L 4-cyl owners. This isn’t a vehicle for those obsessed with maximizing fuel efficiency. It’s a workhorse, a tool for plumbers, electricians, caterers, and delivery services. Its purpose is moving cargo efficiently and reliably, and fuel economy, while important, is just one factor.

City and highway performance

The Metris’s EPA estimates of 19 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway reveal its operational realities. City driving, with its constant stop-and-go, heavy loads, and frequent idling, is the Metris’s worst-case scenario. The 19 MPG reflects the energy required to repeatedly accelerate a vehicle often carrying hundreds of pounds of equipment and supplies. The 23 MPG highway figure shows the efficiency of the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission at a constant speed. Long highway stretches, less common for many Metris operators, provide the best opportunity to save fuel.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz Metris (Cargo Van, LWB) 2.0L 4-cyl at $2,750. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. For a business owner, this is a tangible operating expense impacting profitability. Fuel consumption must be considered when bidding on jobs and setting delivery fees. For fleets with multiple Metris vans, this cost can quickly become substantial, highlighting the importance of efficient driving and proper maintenance.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers offer a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG for the Metris depends on driving style, cargo weight, and route. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and consistently driving with a maximum payload will decrease fuel economy below the EPA estimates. A driver who anticipates traffic, accelerates moderately, and keeps the van properly maintained can likely achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA combined rating. Owners monitoring their fuel consumption using trip computers or dedicated tracking apps may see variations from the official numbers.

How it compares

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz Metris is in a unique space in the commercial van market, between full-size vans and smaller, more fuel-efficient options. The Ford Transit Connect offers better fuel economy, achieving up to 26 MPG combined with its 2.0L engine, but it lacks the Metris’s cargo capacity and towing capability. The larger Ford Transit, with its base 3.5L V6, delivers around 17 MPG combined. The Ram ProMaster City slots in between and gets around 24 MPG combined. The Metris offers a good choice for businesses needing to carry a lot of cargo but wanting to avoid the lower fuel economy of a full-size van. See all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data or see METRIS MPG across all years on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is critical for good fuel economy in the Metris. Keep the tires properly inflated and give the engine timely oil changes and filter replacements. A neglected engine works harder and consumes more fuel than a well-maintained one.

Careful route planning can minimize unnecessary mileage and idling. Use GPS navigation systems to find the most direct routes and avoid congested areas. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, so minimizing idling is essential, especially during deliveries or service calls.

Driving style affects fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these waste fuel. Maintain a steady speed on the highway and anticipate traffic flow to minimize speed changes. The Metris benefits from a smoother driving style.

Consider removing unnecessary weight from the van. Every extra pound adds to the engine’s workload and decreases fuel economy. Regularly check the cargo and remove any items not needed for the day’s tasks. This can give noticeable improvements over time.