2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris: the next big thing

Mercedes-Benz, a division in the Daimler AG portfolio, has now brought a modern-day meld of these vehicles to the U.S.; it's a mid-sized van that has the capability to be a "motor bus" or a "delivery wagon", with some tough, truck-like characteristics, but with car-like maneuverability and handling.

The vans also come with a notable array of standard safety features, class-leading safety technologies, and impressive pricing.

While the cargo van will appeal to a wide variety of tradespeople and the passenger van will see most of its duty in livery services, it could be that some American families will find the utilitarian van, with a durable and easy-to-clean interior, an appealing alternative to minivans.

A flat load floor can accommodate pallets and the 270-degree-opening, "barn-style doors" of the cargo van at the rear make it easier to load large and heavy items; it can carry up to 2,502 lbs., and tow up to 4,960 lbs.

Optional safety features will include Active Parking Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Parktronic, Collision Prevention Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and a rearview camera.

There are up to 100 options available for add-ons, including navigation, automatic air conditioning and electric sliding doors.

Under the hood of the rear-drive Metris is a 2-liter, 4-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 208 hp. and 258 lb.-ft. of torque mated to a 7G-tronic 7-speed automatic transmission, with an optional stop/start feature that improves fuel economy.