As commercial vehicles dominate the streets for both business and leisure use, two names stand out in the compact van market: the Mercedes Citan Transporter and the VW Caddy. In this head-to-head comparison, we delve into the technical specifications and innovative features of these two popular models to determine which might suit your needs best.
The Mercedes Citan Transporter offers a diverse range of powertrains, catering to a wide audience with its diesel, petrol, and electric engine options. The engines range from 95 to 131 HP, while the electric version boasts a 45 kWh battery, providing an electric range of up to 290 km. Drivers can choose between a manual gearbox, dual-clutch automatic, or reduction gearbox, making it highly adaptable for different driving preferences.
On the other hand, the VW Caddy features a selection of petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid engines, with power outputs ranging from 102 to 150 HP. It too offers both manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions but adds an all-wheel-drive option, giving it a slight edge in terms of driveability on variable road conditions. The plug-in hybrid model provides a respectable electric range of up to 121 km, thanks to its 19.7 kWh battery.
Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for commercial vehicles, impacting operational costs significantly. The Citan Transporter features a range of fuel consumption values, with petrol and diesel options consuming between 5.2 to 6.9 L/100km. The electric model consumes approximately 18.7 to 20.3 kWh/100km, demonstrating its efficiency for urban deliveries.
Meanwhile, the VW Caddy offers a comparable range of fuel consumption, from 5.3 to 6.9 L/100km depending on engine choice. The plug-in hybrid option uses just 0.5 L/100km on average when electricity is the primary power source, highlighting its potential for eco-friendly operations.
Size and payload are critical features for utility vans. The Mercedes Citan measures 4498 mm in length, perfect for navigating urban environments with ease. It offers a payload capacity varying from 449 to 753 kg, making it a reliable choice for transporting goods within city limits.
The VW Caddy, with lengths between 4500 and 4853 mm, sits comfortably in the compact van category. It showcases a range of payload options from 501 to 703 kg, offering reasonable flexibility for businesses needing a slightly larger load capacity.
The Mercedes Citan Transporter accommodates up to five seats, ideal for businesses needing a versatile vehicle for both goods and personnel transport. With various seating configurations, it ensures both driver and passengers enjoy comfort on the road.
In contrast, the VW Caddy can be configured to seat between five to seven passengers, catering to larger work crews or family use. This makes the Caddy suitable for those who prioritize passenger capacity alongside cargo space.
Both the Citan and Caddy line-ups feature modern technological integrations to enhance driving experience and safety. The Citan embraces Mercedes' commitment to innovation with options for advanced driver assist systems, while the Caddy's infotainment systems and safety tech offer strong competition, catering to the tech-savvy user.
When choosing between the Mercedes Citan Transporter and the VW Caddy, it ultimately comes down to specific business needs and preferences. The Citan Transporter appeals to those who lean towards a luxury brand with rich powertrain options and electric motoring capability, whereas the VW Caddy offers versatility with its hybrid option and variable seating arrangements. Both vans bring to the table reliability and practicality, essential for any thriving business.
Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.
Mercedes Citan Transporter has a distinct advantage in terms of price – it starts at 21700 £, while the VW Caddy costs 27800 £. That’s a price difference of around 6018 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Caddy manages with 0.50 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Mercedes Citan Transporter with 5.10 L. The difference is about 4.60 L per 100 km.
As for range, the Mercedes Citan Transporter performs clearly better – achieving up to 290 km, about 169 km more than the VW Caddy.
Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.
When it comes to engine power, the VW Caddy has a slightly edge – offering 150 HP compared to 131 HP. That’s roughly 19 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Caddy is minimal quicker – completing the sprint in 11.40 s, while the Mercedes Citan Transporter takes 11.70 s. That’s about 0.30 s faster.
In terms of top speed, the VW Caddy performs hardly perceptible better – reaching 186 km/h, while the Mercedes Citan Transporter tops out at 183 km/h. The difference is around 3 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: VW Caddy pulls slightly stronger with 320 Nm compared to 270 Nm. That’s about 50 Nm difference.
Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?
Seats: VW Caddy offers evident more seating capacity – 7 vs 5.
In curb weight, Mercedes Citan Transporter is a bit lighter – 1381 kg compared to 1575 kg. The difference is around 194 kg.
In maximum load capacity, the VW Caddy performs barely noticeable better – up to 3700 L, which is about 80 L more than the Mercedes Citan Transporter.
When it comes to payload, Mercedes Citan Transporter minimal takes the win – 787 kg compared to 710 kg. That’s a difference of about 77 kg.
Overall, the VW Caddy shows itself to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
The Mercedes-Benz Citan van impresses with its versatility and compact design, making it ideal for navigating urban environments with ease. It comes equipped with a stylish yet functional interior, providing drivers with comfort and practicality for both short and long journeys. The Citan also offers advanced safety features, reflecting Mercedes-Benz's commitment to ensuring peace of mind on the road.
detailsThe VW Caddy is the Swiss-army knife of compact vans — practical, surprisingly refined, and ready to swap a weekend adventure for a grocery run without breaking a sweat. It’s user-friendly, comfortable enough for daily driving, and sensible for buyers who want utility with a dash of style and no drama.
details
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
21700 - 33300 £
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Price
27800 - 45900 £
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Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.9 L
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Consumption L/100km
0.5 - 6.9 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
18.7 - 21.1 kWh
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
262 - 290 km
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Electric Range
116 - 121 km
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Battery Capacity
45 kWh
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Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
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co2
0 - 156 g/km
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co2
10 - 165 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
54 L
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Fuel tank capacity
50 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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Body Type
Cargo Van
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Body Type
High Roof Estate
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Seats
2 - 5
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Seats
5 - 7
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Doors
4 - 5
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
1381 - 1939 kg
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Curb weight
1575 - 1998 kg
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Trunk capacity
-
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Trunk capacity
-
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Length
4498 - 4922 mm
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Length
4500 - 4853 mm
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Width
1859 mm
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Width
1855 mm
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Height
1819 - 1830 mm
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Height
1819 - 1860 mm
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Max trunk capacity
2900 - 3620 L
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Max trunk capacity
2556 - 3700 L
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Payload
449 - 787 kg
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Payload
501 - 710 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Diesel, Petrol, Electric
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Engine Type
Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic, Reduction Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
95 - 131 HP
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Power HP
102 - 150 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
11.7 - 13.8 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
11.4 - 14 s
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Max Speed
132 - 183 km/h
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Max Speed
173 - 186 km/h
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Torque
240 - 270 Nm
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Torque
220 - 320 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
70 - 96 kW
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Power kW
75 - 110 kW
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Engine capacity
1332 - 1461 cm3
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Engine capacity
1498 - 1968 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2021 - 2024
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Model Year
2024
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CO2 Efficiency Class
E, F, D, A
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CO2 Efficiency Class
E, F, B
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Brand
Mercedes-Benz
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Brand
VW
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Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive.
The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.
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