In short
Ludospace premium
From €29,100
Linked for 10 years on the design of certain models and engines, Renault et Mercedes separated themselves. However, the project Renault Kangoo/Mercedes Citan, then far too advanced remains. This second generation still shares its platform, engines and certain technologies with the Renault Kangoo. It is also manufactured in the same place, in the Maubeuge factory (59). Unlike, Mercedes intervened from the design stage, unlike the first generation where the firm with the star had jumped on the bandwagon, with the specifications: “reinforcing the premium aspect” of its MPV. The brand began by renaming its model to Classe T in order to better integrate it into the range while giving a nod to Mercedes’ first station wagon, the W123 T.
Then, the design is a little more worked with always this desire to bring the T-Class closer to the rest of the range. Thus the rounded front and the lights in the shape of olives visually approach the Mercedes B-Class. Apart from the rims and the specific colors, the rest (the rear lights, the openings and the silhouette) is in all respects similar to the French. In the “rebadgage” game, the Stellantis group is doing better with a triplet Citroën Berlingo/Peugeot Rifter/Opel Combo better differentiated.
Premium status is also characterized by higher prices. This posh version of the Kangoo will cost you an average of €1,500 more with the same finish and engine, a reasonable additional cost to display the star at the end of a grille. At this price level, the main competitor of the T-Class turns out to be the Volkswagen Caddy.
The German MPV justifies its prices by its interior layout, which is very different. Here, the dashboard is exclusive. We also note an effort made in terms of materials with specific coatings on the dashboard as well as more upscale upholstery. This is not completely enough to hide its utilitarian DNA, consisting largely of hard and hollow plastics. We prefer the interior of the more opulent Volkswagen Caddy. Another exclusivity: the presence of the voice-controlled MBUX system activated by the now famous “Hey Mercedes”. On the other hand, it is integrated into a disappointing 7-inch touch screen whose resolution is passable.
The T-Class incorporates all the practical aspects of the Kangoo and there are many of them. Starting with its gigantic volumes. The two sliding side doors give access to a 2/3 – 1/3 split bench seat which will easily accommodate 3 large adults or three baby seats. It will be offered later in a long chassis, with seven seats on board. If the competition offers 3 independent rear seats or an extractable bench seat, the German is betting on pure volume. That of its trunk oscillates between 520 liters and more than 2,000 liters, once the seat is folded down. A very good score.
Here, the seat sags to provide an almost flat and above all long loading surface of nearly 1.90m. Too bad, the manipulation cannot be done from the trunk. The numerous storage spaces make life easier, including the large door bins, the central armrest, the overcab, the aviation shelves, the storage compartment on top of the dashboard, etc. It goes to show that having Renault DNA is good since the T-Class takes over the modular roof bars which pivot to turn into a gallery that can support 40 kg. A system found on the Dacia Sandero and the new Jogger. Unlike the T-Class does not require a tool.
