The 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van with the long wheelbase and 2.0L 4-cylinder engine gets 20 MPG combined. This fuel economy may seem high compared to hybrid minivans. However, the Metris is a compact workhorse designed for businesses that prioritize agile maneuverability and cargo capacity over fuel consumption. This van isn’t trying to hypermile; it’s built for deadlines and delivery quotas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in city driving and 23 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the stop-and-go nature of urban deliveries and the sustained speeds of longer hauls, respectively. The Metris’s 9-speed automatic transmission is important here, keeping the engine in its optimal power band whether navigating congested streets or cruising at highway speeds. The highway number provides some relief for long journeys, but the city MPG highlights the impact of frequent acceleration and braking, which is common for many Metris drivers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,900 for the 2023 Metris Cargo Van. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Fleet managers will factor it into their operating budgets as it’s a significant number. However, it’s also a standardized estimate. Businesses that drive far more than 15,000 miles annually, or those operating in areas with higher-than-average fuel costs, should expect to spend more. On the other hand, those with shorter routes or access to discounted fuel may see a lower annual cost.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a valuable baseline, but real-world fuel economy depends heavily on driving habits, load weight, and route conditions. Regularly carrying heavy payloads, aggressive driving, and neglecting maintenance can decrease your MPG. Driving smoothly and adhering to a strict maintenance schedule can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Owners should monitor their fuel consumption to establish a realistic baseline for their specific usage patterns.

How it compares

Comparing the Metris to its competitors provides context. The Ford Transit Connect, for example, achieves an EPA rating of 26 MPG combined, which is better. The Ram ProMaster City comes in around 24 MPG combined. These vans offer superior fuel efficiency, but often at the expense of overall cargo volume and payload capacity. The larger Ford Transit offers significantly more space but has a substantially lower fuel economy. Some configurations get around 16 MPG combined. The Metris occupies a sweet spot, balancing usability and relative efficiency compared to smaller and larger vans. For a deeper , explore all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data and learn more about METRIS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

First, monitor tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and ensure it matches the recommended PSI on the doorjamb sticker.

Second, minimize unnecessary weight. The Metris is designed to carry substantial loads, but every extra pound contributes to fuel consumption. Remove any tools or equipment that aren’t essential.

Third, adopt smoother driving habits. Avoid hard acceleration and braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Using cruise control on the highway can also help optimize fuel efficiency.

Fourth, keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other maintenance tasks ensure that the engine runs efficiently. Neglecting these services can lead to decreased fuel economy and potentially more serious mechanical problems.

Finally, consider eco-driving modes, if available. Some Metris configurations may offer drive mode selections that prioritize fuel efficiency. These modes can subtly adjust the engine and transmission settings to optimize MPG.