The Mercedes-Benz T-Class Long (T420) T 180 is a compact minivan introduced in November 2023, representing Mercedes-Benz’s entry into the leisure activity vehicle segment. While not currently sold in the United States, the T-Class is primarily aimed at the European market, offering a practical and versatile option for families and those requiring flexible cargo space. It shares its platform with the Renault Kangoo and is positioned as a more premium alternative to other small vans and MPVs available in Europe. The “Long” designation indicates an extended wheelbase version, providing increased interior space and cargo capacity compared to the standard T-Class.
Mercedes-Benz T-Class Long (T420) T 180: Overview
The T-Class fills a gap in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup, offering a more affordable and utilitarian vehicle than their larger passenger vans. It’s designed to appeal to customers who prioritize practicality, space, and versatility over outright luxury, though it still incorporates Mercedes-Benz’s design language and build quality. The T 180 variant, equipped with a 1.3-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, provides a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate performance for everyday driving. The vehicle is offered with five seats as standard, and its modular interior allows for various seating configurations to maximize passenger or cargo space.
Engine & Performance
The Mercedes-Benz T 180 is powered by a 1.332-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated M 200.731. This engine produces 131 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1600 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.2 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 12.5 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 183 km/h (113.71 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11.9 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 6.5 kg/Nm. The T 180 also incorporates a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6e emission standards.
Design & Features
The T-Class Long (T420) features a minivan body style with five doors and a spacious interior. Its exterior design incorporates Mercedes-Benz’s current design language, with a prominent grille and distinctive headlights. The extended wheelbase provides ample legroom for passengers and a generous cargo area. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 828 liters (29.24 cu. ft.), which can be expanded to a maximum of 3660 liters (129.25 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard features include ABS (Anti-lock braking system), electric power steering, and ventilated disc brakes on all wheels. The vehicle is equipped with 205/60 R16 tires mounted on 6J x 16 alloy wheels. Safety features are a key consideration, with the T-Class incorporating modern driver-assistance systems, though specific features may vary depending on the trim level and optional packages. The T-Class is designed to be a versatile vehicle, suitable for both family transportation and commercial use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | T-class |
| Generation | T-class Long (T420) |
| Type (Engine) | T 180 (131 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 7-7.3 l/100 km (33.6 – 32.2 US mpg, 40.4 – 38.7 UK mpg, 14.3 – 13.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 157-165 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 131 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1600 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M 200.731 |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1563 kg (3445.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2269 kg (5002.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 706 kg (1556.46 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 828 l (29.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3660 l (129.25 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4922 mm (193.78 in.) |
| Width | 1859 mm (73.19 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2159 mm (85 in.) |
| Height | 1811 mm (71.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3100 mm (122.05 in.) |
| Front track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Front overhang | 972 mm (38.27 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 850 mm (33.46 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.2 m (43.31 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |


