Built alongside the Renault Kangoo, on which it is based, at the French carmaker’s factory in Maubeuge, the Citan launches in the UK later this year with a choice of three lengths, three body styles and four engines. With its longest wheelbase, the compact van can carry loads up to 4.71 metres in length, with an 800kg payload and 3.8 square metre load area.

Engine choices are identical to the Kangoo, with the most popular units likely to be the 75bhp and 89bhp diesels, which share 65.7mpg and 112g/km efficiency and emissions figures. The range also includes the 109bhp 1.5-litre diesel, and a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol with 114bhp. Mercedes-Benz has also hinted at an electrically-powered version.

UK buyers will be offered three versions of the panel van, at 3.94 metres, 4.32 metres and 4.71 metres respectively, as well as two further variants. The Citan Dualiner features a folding rear bench seat and is based on the longest panel van, while the Traveliner has a fully glazed rear section and seating for five passengers.

Pricing will be announced closer to the UK launch.