Stuttgart/Hanover: 24 September 2014. "Whoever comes out top in this test really has deserved the sought-after IBC Trophy," explains Lutz Gerritzen, Editor-in-Chief of the industry publication "Bus-Fahrt" at the IAA Commercial Vehicles 2014. This year it was the Mercedes-Benz Citaro on the winner's podium, after seeing off four other competitors to win the trophy. It came top in the hardest comparative test of the year for buses. The completely redeveloped low-floor bus from the market leader was equal to the industry's demanding expectations – it scored a total of 85 percent out of the points available. Driven in a way to get the best out of its performance potential, it nevertheless finished with the best fuel consumption figures. It sets new benchmarks in the segment with exemplary active and passive safety. Passengers enjoy a high degree of ride comfort in a decidedly attractive interior; and the work of the driver and on-board staff is made much easier thanks to excellent ergonomics. Should the Citaro need to go into the workshop, its manufacturer will help with outstanding all-round service.

The annual IBC (International Bus & Coach Competition) test marathon staged by the industry publication "Bus-Fahrt" and its media partners enjoys an excellent reputation in the bus and coach sector. The focus alternates from year to year between regular-service buses and touring coaches, which are put through their paces by a test crew comprised of industry journalists and fleet drivers. Five current urban bus models, all with Euro VI engines, were tested by test partner MVG (Münchner Verkehrsgesellschaft) this year – between them, they represented more than 75 percent of the European urban bus market. In order to ensure comparability, the IBC organisers stipulated that low-floor buses in the popular 12-metre body length with 300 hp engine output (or as close as possible to that figure) were to be tested. All models had to carry 4500 kg ballast; and the test candidates had to be fitted with the same tyres and be lubricated with the same lubricants. Checks were made, in real-life test conditions, on the comfort and safety of passengers and driving personnel. Particular emphasis was of course placed on economy and the question of the level of efficiency that an operator could count on. After 3500 test kilometres and countless individual checks, the result was made known: The Mercedes-Benz Citaro was adjudged by the test jury to be the best urban bus currently available.