19 MPG combined won’t win the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van any green awards. But for families, shuttle services, and small businesses that rely on its large interior and commercial-grade durability, fuel economy is often a secondary concern to functionality and reliability. It’s a tool, not a toy, and its thirst reflects the demands placed upon it.

City and highway performance

The Metris earns an EPA-estimated 18 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. This difference, while typical, is especially noticeable in a vehicle with the Metris’s shape. Stop-and-go traffic and the van’s weight work against it in urban environments. Highway driving, on the other hand, allows the 2.0L turbocharged engine to settle into a more efficient rhythm, helped by the smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. This gearbox helps optimize fuel consumption, allowing for lower RPMs at cruising speeds than older transmissions.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van is $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a benchmark to consider, but remember that actual costs may vary depending on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the specific demands you place on the vehicle. For example, consistently hauling heavy loads or frequently driving in congested city centers will increase your fuel expenses beyond this estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing environment, real-world fuel economy can change. Owners should expect a range of 17-21 MPG in mixed driving conditions. Cargo weight, driving style (aggressive acceleration and braking), and the use of accessories like air conditioning significantly impact fuel consumption. Headwinds and hilly terrain will also affect mileage. Regular maintenance, including tire inflation and oil changes, plays a vital role in maintaining good fuel efficiency. Neglecting these aspects can further reduce MPG.

How it compares

The Metris operates in a niche segment with limited direct competitors. The Ford Transit Connect, a smaller van, gets a considerably better 26 MPG combined (with its 2.0L engine). The larger Ford Transit, while offering more space, gets around 16 MPG combined with its EcoBoost V6. The Nissan NV200, another compact option, achieves around 25 MPG combined. While these numbers might seem attractive, each van has its own strengths and limitations. The Transit Connect doesn’t offer the same passenger capacity or towing capability as the Metris, and the larger Transit is a different van altogether, targeting a different market. Buyers are trading fuel economy for specific utility.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.0L turbocharged engine in the Metris works well with a gentle driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, and try to anticipate traffic flow to maintain a steady speed.

Tire pressure plays a significant role in fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, ensuring they are inflated to the recommended levels specified on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel.

Remove unnecessary cargo. Extra weight reduces fuel efficiency. Look at what you carry and eliminate any items that aren’t essential. Especially if you are looking at METRIS MPG across all years try lighter cargo.

Use cruise control carefully on the highway. While it can help maintain a consistent speed, cruise control may downshift unnecessarily on hills, wasting fuel. In undulating terrain, managing the throttle manually often provides better results.

Consider the long-term benefits of regular maintenance. Keeping your Metris properly serviced, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections, ensures that the engine runs efficiently. Neglecting these tasks can lead to decreased performance and higher fuel consumption. You can find all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on our site to research.