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Setra MultiClass: city and intercity buses, engines and trims
Setra MultiClass — the family of city and intercity buses, produced since 2001. We look at the LE, UL and NF trims, the most common engines and what to check when buying a used bus.
MultiClass in brief
MultiClass — the simplest and most economical Setra family, designed for daily work on urban and suburban routes. Here, there's more space for standing passengers, wider doors and easier boarding than in tourist coaches.
In the used market, MultiClass is often bought by schools, municipalities and local operators, as it's cheap to run and has a robust build.
Trims and purpose
The MultiClass 400 series (from 2001) includes several trims: UL (intercity, high floor), LE (low-entry) and NF (low-floor city bus). Different floor heights mean a different balance of comfort and capacity.
Later MultiClass trims feature a refreshed look and reduced fuel consumption. When choosing, pay attention not just to the body style, but also to the Euro standard and the specific engine.
Engines and gearboxes
MultiClass buses are fitted with Mercedes-Benz diesel engines, usually six-cylinder. Older examples have Euro 3–5, newer ones Euro VI with SCR system.
Gearboxes are manual or automatic (often ZF). For city routes, where frequent stops are common, an automatic box is more convenient and less tiring for the driver.
What to check when buying a used MultiClass
Due to frequent stops, door mechanisms, brakes, and the gearbox (or automatic transmission) tend to wear out. Check the doors, their seals, and repair history.
Also, inspect the engine for leaks, the SCR/AdBlue system, suspension, and body corrosion around the windows and roof. Inside, check the seats, handrails, and floor covering — these wear out quickly in public transport buses.
Versions and trims
Names and equipment vary by market and production year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
MultiClass UL
from 2001Intercity bus with higher floors and more comfortable seats.
- Often — a larger luggage compartment
- Often — more comfortable seats
- Often — two front doors
MultiClass LE
from 2001Lower entry, suitable for suburban routes.
- Often — a lower floor line at the doors
- More space for standing passengers
- Often — a disabled ramp
MultiClass NF
from 2001City and suburban bus with low floors.
- Low-floor design
- Often — two or three doors
- Often — more standing room
MultiClass 500
Later generationNewer generation with Euro VI engines.
- Euro VI diesels
- Refreshed styling
- Often — more modern electronics
MultiClass version comparison
| UL | LE | NF | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For intercity routes | For suburban routes | For city and suburban routes |
| Step-in height | Higher, with steps | Lower at the doors | Base |
| Comfort level | Top | Mid-range | Basic |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ | € |
For long-distance driving, the UL is better suited, while for suburban and city routes, go for the LE or NF. In all cases, the condition of the doors, brakes, and gearbox is crucial.
Pros
- Robust and reliable construction
- Cost-effective to run
- Wide network of Setra and Mercedes-Benz service centres
- Wide range of versions to choose from
Cons
- Less comfort than in the tourer models
- Often high mileage and signs of heavy use
- Doors and brakes wear out faster
Frequently asked questions
How does the MultiClass differ from the ComfortClass?
The MultiClass is designed for suburban and intercity routes: more space for standing passengers, wider doors. The ComfortClass is a touring coach with a more comfortable interior.
Is the MultiClass suitable for school transport?
Yes, many of them are used for transporting children. It's important that the bus meets legal requirements for safety equipment and seatbelts.
Which MultiClass version to choose?
It depends on the route: for longer journeys choose UL, for suburban routes choose LE, for city driving choose NF.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
