The Good
The MAN SUE 240 offers exceptional operational reliability and practical efficiency, crucial for public transport. Its robust performance handles demanding urban routes, while passenger comfort is ensured through a low-floor design and spacious interior. The straightforward, functional design appeals to operators for ease of maintenance, representing strong long-term value and dependable service for communities.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2009 MAN SUE 240 can include potential issues with electrical systems as components age, increased wear on suspension and braking parts due to continuous heavy-duty use, and specific challenges related to engine emissions systems maintenance. Rust can also be a concern in older units, particularly in areas with harsh winters.
2009 MAN City Buses SUE 240: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2009 MAN SUE 240 typically came with a range of MAN D20 or D08 common-rail diesel engines. These engines were designed for heavy-duty commercial use, emphasizing torque and durability over raw speed. Specific variants included 6-cylinder in-line units. While diesel was standard, some markets might have seen natural gas (CNG) options, though less common for this specific designation.
- Horsepower: Horsepower figures generally ranged from approximately 240 hp (176 kW) to 320 hp (235 kW), depending on the specific engine variant and market. The "240" in SUE 240 often denotes the base engine power output. These engines delivered substantial torque at lower RPMs, essential for city driving with frequent stops and starts.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy for city buses is typically measured in L/100km (liters per 100 kilometers) or MPG (miles per gallon) for heavy-duty vehicles, and is highly variable based on route, load, and driving style. For a 2009 MAN SUE 240, one could expect figures in the range of 35-50 L/100km (approximately 4.7-6.7 MPG), though this is a general estimate. Factors like stop-and-go traffic significantly impact consumption.
- 0-60 Times: 0-60 mph acceleration times are not a relevant or standard metric for city buses. These vehicles are designed for urban transit with controlled speeds and passenger comfort, not rapid acceleration. Performance is measured by pull-away torque, gradient climbing ability, and smooth acceleration.
- Towing Capacity: Towing capacity is not applicable for city buses like the SUE 240. They are designed to carry passengers, not to tow other vehicles or trailers.
- Trim-Level Features: City buses don't have "trim levels" in the passenger car sense. Instead, they offer configurations and optional features:
- Accessibility: Low-floor design with manual or automatic wheelchair ramps (often electric or hydraulic).
- Seating: Various seating layouts, including combinations of forward-facing and perimeter seating, often specified by the purchasing transit authority.
- Doors: Typically two or three wide-opening double doors, with pneumatic operation for rapid passenger flow.
- HVAC: Robust heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems designed for large passenger compartments.
- Driver's Cockpit: Ergonomic driver's area with digital displays, CAN bus integration, and adjustable seating.
- Safety: ABS, ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation), electronic braking systems (EBS), and often electronic stability programs (ESP) as optional or standard features in later years.
- Passenger Information: Internal and external destination displays, next-stop announcements, and CCTV systems.
- Other Options: Bike racks, ticket validators, and specific livery or interior finishes.
2009 MAN City Buses SUE 240 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | MAN City Buses |
| Model | SUE 240 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
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| Curb Weight | - |
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| Overall Height | - |
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| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 MAN City Buses SUE 240 Have?
Emissions control components, such as the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems, are another frequent source of issues. These systems require regular maintenance and can be prone to clogging or malfunction, particularly in stop-and-go city driving where regeneration cycles may not complete effectively. AdBlue (DEF) system components, including the pump, injector, and tank heater, are also known points of failure.
The air suspension system can experience leaks in air bags or lines, and compressor failures are not uncommon after extensive use, impacting ride comfort and potentially leading to uneven chassis leveling. Braking system components, while robust, require consistent attention. Caliper seizures, air dryer malfunctions, and excessive wear on drums/discs and pads are standard wear items but can become problematic if neglected.
Regarding recalls, specific information for the 2009 MAN SUE 240 would depend heavily on the region and specific batch. MAN, like all major manufacturers, issues recalls as necessary for safety or performance defects. These might range from minor software updates to component replacements. Operators should always consult official MAN service bulletins and recall databases relevant to their operating region. Generally, there aren't widespread, catastrophic model-year-specific issues unique to 2009, but rather accumulation of wear-and-tear problems typical of a hard-working commercial vehicle approaching or past a decade of service. Long-term, consistent maintenance is paramount to mitigating these concerns and ensuring continued reliability.
How long will the 2009 MAN City Buses SUE 240 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in Tech & Driver-Assistance:
- CAN Bus System: Modern for its time, enabling robust communication between various electronic control units (ECUs) for engine, transmission, brakes, and other systems. This facilitates diagnostics and efficient operation.
- Electronic Braking System (EBS): Enhanced braking response and control, often integrated with ABS and ASR.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during braking, enhancing control.
- Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) / Traction Control: Prevents drive wheel spin, particularly useful in slippery conditions, improving traction and stability.
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP): (Often optional or standard on later production variants) Helps maintain vehicle stability during critical driving situations by selectively braking wheels and reducing engine power.
- Driver Information Display: Digital dashboard providing essential operational data, warnings, and diagnostic messages.
- Automatic Transmission: Typically ZF or Voith automatic transmissions, electronically controlled for smooth shifts and optimal fuel economy.
Entertainment:
Entertainment features are minimal, usually limited to a basic radio system in the driver's cockpit. Passenger entertainment systems are not standard for city buses of this era.
Safety Features:
- Robust Body Structure: Designed to meet roll-over and frontal impact standards for commercial vehicles, providing a strong safety cell for passengers and driver.
- Emergency Exits: Clearly marked windows and roof hatches.
- Fire Suppression System: Often an optional feature in the engine compartment.
- CCTV Systems: (Optional) Interior and exterior cameras for surveillance, passenger safety, and accident investigation.
- Wheelchair Ramps & Securement: Low-floor design with manual or automatic ramps and designated areas with securement systems for wheelchairs.
Crash-Test Ratings:
Specific "crash-test ratings" like those provided by Euro NCAP or NHTSA for passenger cars are not applicable or performed for city buses. Safety for commercial vehicles is governed by stringent engineering standards, type-approval processes, and regulatory requirements (e.g., ECE R66 for roll-over strength) rather than consumer-style crash tests. The robust construction and integrated safety systems are designed to protect occupants in real-world transit scenarios.
What Colors Options are Available?
2009 MAN City Buses SUE 240 Prices and Market Value
Currently, in the used market (2024), prices for a 2009 MAN SUE 240 vary wildly based on mileage, condition, maintenance history, and local demand. Well-maintained units might fetch €15,000 to €40,000. However, units requiring significant refurbishment could be as low as €5,000-€10,000, often purchased for parts or for use in regions with less stringent regulations. Depreciation for commercial buses is steep in the first few years, but then plateaus as their value becomes tied to remaining operational life and parts availability. Factors affecting resale include engine and transmission condition, body integrity (rust), electrical system health, and compliance with current emissions standards, which can significantly impact its viability in stricter markets.
2009 MAN City Buses SUE 240 Cost of Ownership
2009 MAN City Buses SUE 240 Fuel Efficiency
2009 MAN City Buses SUE 240 Warranty
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Rust
2009 MAN City Buses SUE 240 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 MAN City Buses SUE 240 Compare to Other Vehicle?
Performance: The MAN SUE 240 offered solid, reliable performance for urban environments. Its MAN D20/D08 engines provided good torque and sufficient power for city driving. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz Citaro, which often featured similar OM-series engines, performance was largely comparable – both focused on smooth acceleration and efficient stop-and-go operation rather than speed. Volvo models also delivered similar power outputs with their own engines, known for robustness.
Features: All these rivals offered comparable low-floor designs, various door configurations, and robust HVAC systems. The Citaro often had a slight edge in perceived interior refinement and driver ergonomics, though the MAN was highly functional. Solaris, being a newer entrant, sometimes offered more modern aesthetics or slightly different passenger flow solutions. Driver-assistance systems like ABS and ASR were standard across the board, with ESP becoming an option on most in this era.
Reliability: MAN and Mercedes-Benz are legendary for their commercial vehicle reliability and durability, and the SUE 240 upholds this. Operators typically report strong chassis and engine longevity from both brands, provided maintenance schedules are rigorously followed. Volvo also stands out for its robust powertrains. Solaris, while generally reliable, might have had a slightly smaller parts network in some regions compared to the giants. Long-term reliability often boils down to fleet maintenance practices.
Price: New purchase prices were generally in the same ballpark for all these premium European manufacturers, with slight variations depending on exact specifications and bulk purchasing deals. On the used market, price is dictated more by condition and emissions compliance than initial brand, though Mercedes and MAN might retain slightly higher values due to strong brand recognition and parts availability.
Alternatives:
- Mercedes-Benz Citaro (O530): A very strong alternative, often praised for comfort, driver ergonomics, and robust engineering. Used models are widely available.
- Volvo 7900 (or older chassis with modern bodywork): Offers excellent reliability and a strong dealer network.
- Solaris Urbino: A competitive option, often with innovative designs and good operational efficiency, particularly in Eastern and Central European markets.
- Van Hool NewA330: Another European competitor known for quality construction.
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 MAN City Buses SUE 240 a Good Vehicle?
It is definitely worth buying on the used market, provided a thorough pre-purchase inspection reveals a solid chassis, engine, and transmission, coupled with a verifiable maintenance history. Buying a unit that has been properly serviced by a fleet is crucial. It's less about "trims" and more about the specific configuration (e.g., door layout, seating) that best fits operational needs. Avoid units with significant rust or unaddressed electrical/emissions system faults, as these can quickly negate any initial savings. While expensive to operate, its initial low used price can provide good value for operators who can manage its ongoing fuel, maintenance, and repair demands with in-house capabilities or reliable external partners.