Mercedes-Benz Metris Base Model vs Work Van

Last updated August 4, 2026

Mercedes-Benz Metris

The Metris lineup here has two trim levels with different scopes. Base Model is the broad umbrella: Long WB and Long w/135" WB are the roomier cargo vans, Standard WB and Standard w/126" WB are the easier-to-place cargo vans, and base identifies the passenger version. Work Van is the people-focused branch, using the base passenger model’s seven-seat layout and removable rear benches for shuttle, crew, or mixed passenger-and-cargo duty. Both trim levels use a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive. The main difference is therefore the body’s job: Base Model covers cargo and passenger formats, while Work Van is specifically centered on carrying people.

What each trim is known for

Mercedes-Benz Metris Base Model

Base Model

Long WBLong w/135" WBStandard WBStandard w/126" WBbase

The Base Model trim level groups Long WB, Long w/135" WB, Standard WB, Standard w/126" WB, and base versions into the core Metris formula, spanning short and long cargo vans plus the standard passenger van.

Best for: Businesses, organizations, and families that want a manageable midsize van, with the exact fit depending on whether cargo capacity, easier city use, or passenger seating matters most.

Highlights

  • Short- and long-wheelbase cargo bodies, plus a seven-passenger version
  • 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine
  • Nine-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive
  • Crosswind Assist and Active Brake Assist
7 in stock
Mercedes-Benz Metris Work Van

Work Van

base

The Work Van trim level consists of the base passenger model, a practical three-row van built for crew, shuttle, and flexible people-moving duty rather than plush minivan comfort.

Best for: Shuttle operators, work crews, families, and organizations that need seven seats with removable rear benches for occasional cargo flexibility.

Highlights

  • Seven-passenger seating
  • Removable second- and third-row benches
  • 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with a nine-speed automatic
  • Crosswind Assist

Shifts from the Base Model’s mix of cargo and passenger bodies to a dedicated seven-passenger layout with removable second- and third-row benches.

7 in stock

Trim comparison

FeatureWork VanBase Model
Includes
base7 in stock
Long WB, Long w/135" WB, Standard WB, Standard w/126" WB, base7 in stock
Primary roleCrew and passenger useCargo or passenger use
Body formatsPassenger vanShort cargo, long cargo, or passenger van
Rear seatingRemovable second- and third-row benchesCargo layout or removable rear benches
Passenger capacity7 passengersCargo van or 7-passenger van
Fuel economy18 city/22 highway mpgCargo: 19 city/23 highway mpg; passenger: 18/22
Cargo space37.4 cu ft37.4–199.2 cu ft, depending on body
Doors43–4, depending on body

Frequently asked questions

What do Standard WB and Long WB mean on a Metris?

They identify the Cargo Van’s wheelbase and body length. Standard WB has a 126-inch wheelbase for easier maneuvering. Long WB stretches to 135 inches for a longer load floor and more cargo room.

What is the difference between the Standard WB and Long WB Metris Cargo vans?

The main difference is cargo space and overall length. On newer models, Standard WB provides 182.9 cubic feet, while Long WB provides 199.2 cubic feet. The shorter van is easier to place in tight areas; the longer van carries bulkier loads.

What is the difference between a Metris Cargo Van and the Base Passenger Van?

The Cargo Van prioritizes an open work area with a wood floor and tie-down rings. The Base Passenger Van replaces that cargo-focused layout with three-row seating for seven and removable second- and third-row benches.

Which Metris version is easier to use in cities and parking garages?

The Standard WB Cargo Van is the better fit when maneuverability matters most. Its 126-inch wheelbase and shorter body are easier to park and route through tight streets than the 135-inch Long WB version.

Which Metris should I look for if I need the most cargo room?

Look for the Long WB Cargo Van. On newer models, its 135-inch wheelbase provides 199.2 cubic feet of cargo room, the largest cargo area in the Metris lineup.

Which Metris is suited to shuttle or crew duty?

The Base Passenger Van is the people-moving version. It seats seven across three rows and has removable second- and third-row benches, making it suitable for shuttles, crews, organizations, or mixed-use duty.

Does the Long WB Metris tow more than the Standard WB?

No difference is shown for newer models. Both the 126-inch Standard WB and 135-inch Long WB Cargo Vans carry a 5,000-pound maximum towing rating, as does the newer Base Passenger Van.

Do Metris trims use different engines or drivetrains?

No. Across the core lineup, the cargo and passenger versions share a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive. Newer vans use a nine-speed automatic; models before the 2021 refresh use a seven-speed automatic.

What is a Metris WORKER model?

WORKER identifies a simpler, lower-cost subline added on some earlier Metris vans. It appeared in both Cargo and Passenger forms and kept the same basic turbocharged engine, automatic transmission, and rear-wheel-drive layout.

Is the Base Metris a stripped cargo trim?

Not necessarily. In the newer lineup, Base refers to the Passenger Van rather than a lower cargo grade. It has seven seats and removable rear benches, while Standard WB and Long WB identify the two Cargo Van lengths.

Does the Long WB add more features than the Standard WB?

Its defining upgrade is space, not a higher luxury level. On newer vans, both use the same turbo engine, nine-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive, touchscreen system, wood cargo floor, tie-down rings, and wide-opening rear doors.

What cargo-area equipment comes in the newer Metris Cargo trims?

Newer Standard WB and Long WB Cargo Vans have a wood cargo floor with six tie-down rings, a passenger-side sliding cargo door, and rear doors that open as far as 270 degrees.

Do the rear seats come out of the Metris Passenger Van?

Yes. The Base Passenger Van has removable second- and third-row benches. That lets it switch between seven-person seating and a more cargo-friendly interior, although it remains different from the purpose-built Cargo Van.

Which Metris trims have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Since the 2021 refresh, the lineup uses a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Earlier Metris vans predate that newer factory touchscreen setup, so model year matters more than body length.

Was the long-wheelbase Metris made as a Passenger Van?

No long-wheelbase Passenger Van appears in this U.S. lineup. The 135-inch Long WB body is cargo-focused, while the Passenger Van uses the 126-inch wheelbase with three-row seating.