2021 Mercedes-Benz Metris: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Metris is a new 9-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous 7-speed. This is a meaningful mid-cycle update that also brings better phone connectivity, refreshed styling, and higher weight ratings.
About the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Metris
1st U.S.-market generation (2016-2023), mid-cycle refresh year.
Mercedes-Benz positions the Metris as a right-size van between compact city vans and the larger Sprinter. The core pitch is easier parking, garage access, and day-to-day maneuverability than a full-size van, but more towing, payload, and interior room than smaller rivals. In cargo form it is a work tool for trades and delivery use; in passenger form it is a flexible people mover for shuttle, family, or small-business duty, with Mercedes safety themes and a more polished driving feel than most vans.
The cargo Metris remains a work-focused van offered in standard- and long-wheelbase forms, while the passenger version has seven seats and dual sliding doors for shuttle, business, or family use. Every version has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, a 9-speed automatic, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What changed, by category
2021 Mercedes-Benz Metris specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic | Automatic, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic | Automatic, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 19 mpg | 19 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 208 hp | 208 hp | 208 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 5000 lb | 5000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 186 cu-ft | 199 cu-ft | 183 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.8 in | ||
| Doors | 4 | 3 | 3 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Metris?
The biggest change is the new 9-speed automatic transmission, which replaces the previous 7-speed. It is part of a broader mid-cycle update for 2021.
Does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Metris have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. A 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became standard across the 2021 Metris lineup.
Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Metris a full redesign?
No. The 2021 Metris is a mid-cycle update rather than a full redesign. Its engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, and basic body choices continue from 2020.
Did the 2021 Metris engine change from 2020?
No. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine carried over, but it was paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission for 2021.
What body layouts does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Metris have?
The 2021 Metris lineup has standard- and long-wheelbase cargo vans plus a passenger van with seven seats and dual sliding side doors.