M-B revamps its Ti range
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IN Mercedes Benz's smallest commercial range, the Ti series, is getting new diesel engines, new gearboxes and an interior facelift this spring. The only external changes to the Dusseldorf-built 207, 307 and 407 vans will be an aerodynamic channel around the windscreen.
The new engine is designed to be quieter and more economical than its 0M616 predecessors which were criticised for their mediocre power output and their highrevving characteristics.
The new unit has 11% more power at 59kW (79hp), developed at 3,800rpm — 600rpm lower than the 0M616's peak power figure. The new 2.3-litre diesel is claimed to offer more torque than its predecessor at a lower engine speed.
The petrol engines will be unchanged for now, although there will probably be new petrol engines for the Ti range later in the year. New fivespeed all-synchromesh gearboxes with revised ratios replace the Mercedes G1 range in the Ti vans.
The interiors of the vans have been entirely redesigned with a locking glove compartment instead of the previous open tray; new seat materials; more soundproofing, and revamped trim panels for the doors and floors.
All models will continue to be built at the Mercedes Dusseldorf factory, and the new models are now in production prior to the German Launch in February, with a UK Launch scheduled for March_ The new models will be called the 208, 308, and 408. A price increase is likely by the time they reach the UK.