One of Britain's biggest city centre shopping developments doubled as a van showroom for a couple of days when Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles Aberdeen launched the latest, ground-breaking addition to its range.
The dealer presented three examples of the all-new Mercedes-Benz Citan in the covered mall at Union Square, and scores of shoppers took the opportunity to find out more about the smallest van yet to wear the legendary three-pointed star.
Van Sales Manager Ross Duthie says the promotion proved an outstanding success: "We had lots of interest from passers-by, many of whom hadn't appreciated that Mercedes-Benz now makes a small van. The lads on duty distributed two boxes of brochures and arranged several test drives, two of which have already led to firm orders."
Packed with clever features, the Citan is powered by a fuel-efficient diesel engine which is offered with 75 hp, 90 hp and 110 hp power outputs, or a 114 hp petrol unit.
Panel van versions are available in three lengths - Compact, Long and Extra-long. The Citan Traveliner is based on the Long wheelbase and has a folding rear bench seat, allowing it to carry the driver and up to four passengers. The Citan Dualiner, meanwhile, has the same seating configuration but, because it is based on the Extra-long format, also offers a practical cargo space.
Ross continues: "The Citan marks the entry of Mercedes-Benz into the small van market and we're very excited about its potential to attract new customers to our brand.
"As well as owners and operators of businesses, this vehicle is also going to appeal strongly to those seeking a vehicle for leisure use which is stylish and built to a high standard, but at the same time very practical and cost-effective to run.
"So Union Square was a perfect venue at which to unveil this important new model and we were delighted with the level of interest it received from passing shoppers."
The Mercedes-Benz Citan has a volume carrying capacity of up to 3.8 m³ and a maximum payload potential of 735 kg. It also leads the small van market in terms of fuel efficiency, achieving up to 65.7 mpg and producing CO2 emissions as low as 112 g/km.
Ross adds: "The Citan's much-anticipated arrival means that for the first time we can offer access to a family of van models encompassing a complete spectrum of sizes and gross weights.
"What's more, we've put together some highly competitive and flexible finance packages that can put customers behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz Citan for as little as £6.95 a day."