The Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer Long 109 CDI (95 hp) is a compact, diesel-powered minivan produced from 2019 to 2021 as part of the W415 generation. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the Citan Tourer Long range, it catered to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and practicality over outright performance. The Citan, a collaborative effort between Mercedes-Benz and Renault, aimed to provide a more premium option in the small commercial and passenger van segment, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Caddy and Citroën Berlingo. The “Long” designation indicates an extended wheelbase compared to the standard Citan, offering increased cargo and passenger space. This particular 109 CDI variant was designed for those needing a versatile vehicle for both work and family use, emphasizing economy and reliability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Citan |
| Generation | Citan Tourer Long (W415) |
| Type (Engine) | 109 CDI (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 121 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.9 kg/Hp, 67.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 162.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 608.915 |
| 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 | 15.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.4 l (9.93 US qt | 8.27 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1414 kg (3117.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 586 kg (1291.91 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%) | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 740 kg (1631.42 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.) |
| Front track | 1519 mm (59.8 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1533 mm (60.35 in.) |
| Front overhang | 915 mm (36.02 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 709 mm (27.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 147 mm (5.79 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15; 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Citan 109 CDI utilizes the OM 608.915 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of the Renault-Mercedes-Benz cooperation and is also found in various Renault and Nissan models. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine employs a diesel common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for optimized combustion. The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operates two valves per cylinder. The engine’s 15.1:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their thermal efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard for this variant, providing a balance between fuel economy and drivability. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system to further reduce fuel consumption in urban driving conditions, and a particulate filter to minimize emissions, meeting Euro 6d-TEMP standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 95 hp output and 230 Nm of torque, available from 1750-2250 rpm, provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. The Citan 109 CDI prioritizes fuel economy over rapid acceleration. Real-world driving reveals a focus on usability, with sufficient power for everyday tasks like commuting and carrying passengers or light cargo. Compared to higher-output Citan variants, such as the 119 CDI, the 109 CDI feels noticeably less responsive, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. The manual transmission’s gear ratios are geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency, meaning the engine needs to be revved slightly to access its peak power. The relatively low weight of the vehicle helps mitigate the impact of the modest horsepower figure.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Citan Tourer Long 109 CDI typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment, focusing on practicality and comfort. Standard features included air conditioning, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, power windows, and central locking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with durable and easy-to-clean materials. Optional extras included a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim. The “Tourer” designation meant a more comfortable interior finish compared to the base “Pro” commercial van trim, with more sound insulation and improved seating.
Chassis & Braking
The Citan Tourer Long utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort and load-carrying capacity rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Citan Tourer Long 109 CDI was generally well-received by critics for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and competitive pricing. However, some reviewers noted that the engine felt underpowered, especially when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to the more powerful 119 CDI variant, the 109 CDI offered significantly better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. The Citan’s fuel economy figures were competitive with other small vans in its class, such as the Volkswagen Caddy and Citroën Berlingo. Reliability reports suggest that the OM 608.915 engine is generally robust, but regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues with the diesel particulate filter and fuel injection system.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer Long 109 CDI represents a practical and economical option in the compact van segment. While not known for its performance, its fuel efficiency and versatility have made it a popular choice for both commercial and private buyers. On the used car market, these models are generally affordable and represent good value for money, provided they have been well-maintained. The OM 608.915 engine, while requiring diligent servicing, is known for its longevity, making these Citans a potentially reliable long-term transportation solution. The Citan helped Mercedes-Benz establish a foothold in the small van market, offering a more premium alternative to established competitors.
