The Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer Long (W415) 108 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a key entry point into the compact van segment for the German automaker. Based on the Renault Kangoo, the Citan was Mercedes-Benz’s first foray into this class of vehicle, designed to offer a more premium and refined experience than its French counterpart. The “Long” designation indicates an extended wheelbase, providing increased cargo capacity and passenger space. The 108 CDI variant, powered by a 1.5-liter diesel engine producing 75 horsepower, was positioned as the fuel-efficient and practical choice within the Citan Tourer Long lineup, aimed at businesses and families prioritizing economy over outright performance. This model played a significant role in establishing Mercedes-Benz as a competitor in the light commercial vehicle market in Europe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Citan |
| Generation | Citan Tourer Long (W415) |
| Type (Engine) | 108 CDI (75 Hp) BlueEFFICIENCY |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 4.7-5 l/100 km (50 – 47 US mpg, 60.1 – 56.5 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.2-4.4 l/100 km (56 – 53.5 US mpg, 67.3 – 64.2 UK mpg, 23.8 – 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.3-4.6 l/100 km (54.7 – 51.1 US mpg, 65.7 – 61.4 UK mpg, 23.3 – 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 112-119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.4 kg/Hp, 54.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm, 130.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 51.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (132.76 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 607.951 |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1950 kg (4299.01 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 685 l (24.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3000 l (105.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1050 kg (2314.85 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4321 mm (170.12 in.) |
| Width | 1829 mm (72.01 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2138 mm (84.17 in.) |
| Height | 1809 mm (71.22 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2697 mm (106.18 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer Long 108 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, launched in 2012, was a significant addition to the Mercedes-Benz lineup, marking the brand’s entry into the compact van segment. Built in collaboration with Renault, the Citan shared its platform with the Renault Kangoo Express, but received distinct Mercedes-Benz styling and a focus on enhanced refinement. The “Tourer” designation indicated a more passenger-focused configuration compared to the purely commercial Citan Van. The “Long” variant extended the wheelbase by approximately 20cm, increasing cargo volume and providing more comfortable rear passenger space. The 108 CDI, with its 1.5-liter diesel engine, was the base engine option, prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability. It was a popular choice for businesses needing a practical and economical vehicle, as well as families seeking a versatile and spacious people carrier.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Citan 108 CDI is the OM607.951 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, while developed in collaboration with Renault, was tuned by Mercedes-Benz to meet its standards for refinement and durability. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for improved combustion and reduced emissions. The engine produces 75 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 180 Nm (132.76 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The engine employs a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The 108 CDI was typically paired with a five-speed manual transmission, although an optional six-speed automatic transmission was available. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, slightly impacted fuel economy compared to the manual version.
Driving Characteristics
The Citan 108 CDI, with its 75 horsepower and relatively low torque output, wasn’t designed for rapid acceleration. Performance was adequate for urban driving and highway cruising, but overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. The five-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts, allowing drivers to maximize the available power. The automatic transmission, while smooth, felt somewhat sluggish, particularly when attempting to accelerate quickly. The extended wheelbase of the Tourer Long variant contributed to a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. However, the increased length also made the vehicle feel slightly less nimble than the standard-wheelbase Citan. The steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Citan 108 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY came reasonably well-equipped as standard, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to providing a premium experience even in its entry-level models. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and driver and passenger airbags. Optional extras included a navigation system, parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded upholstery. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies, such as start-stop functionality and low rolling resistance tires. Interior trim was typically functional and durable, with hard-wearing plastics and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels offered more luxurious materials and additional comfort features.
Chassis & Braking
The Citan Tourer Long 108 CDI utilized a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The rear suspension employed a torsion beam setup, which was cost-effective and space-efficient. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering system was a rack and pinion type with electric power assistance, providing light and precise steering feel. The vehicle’s weight distribution was well-balanced, contributing to stable handling. The standard tire size was 195/65 R15, providing a good balance between comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mercedes-Benz Citan 108 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY was generally well-received by critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, practicality, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked power, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the higher-powered Citan variants, such as the 111 CDI, the 108 CDI offered significantly less performance but delivered superior fuel economy. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Caddy and the Fiat Doblo, the Citan offered a more premium interior and a more refined driving experience, but often at a higher price point. The Citan’s fuel economy figures were competitive within its class, and its reliability proved to be generally good.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer Long 108 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY has proven to be a durable and reliable vehicle, and well-maintained examples continue to be popular on the used car market. The OM607.951 engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. While not the most powerful or exciting van on the road, the 108 CDI offers a compelling combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It established Mercedes-Benz as a credible player in the compact van segment and paved the way for future generations of Citan models. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to fulfill the needs of both commercial and private users seeking a versatile and dependable vehicle.
