Following the addition of a 4x4 drivetrain option for 2015, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van moves into 2016 unchanged.
Available in 2500 and 3500 models, and in a choice of passenger, cargo and cab chassis configurations, the Sprinter is a European answer to more traditional North American vans, like the Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana twins, and the Nissan NV.
But Mercedes faces a new Euro-inspired competitor in the Ford Transit introduced here last year.
Engine choices in standard RWD models are a 2.1L turbodiesel four-cylinder making 161 hp ad 265 lb-ft of torque, and an optional 3.0L diesel V6 makes 188 hp and 325 lb-ft. Four-cylinder models use a seven-speed automatic transmission, and the V6 comes with a five-speed. Four-wheel drive models use the V6/five-speed combo exclusively.
Passenger van payload maxes out at 1,319 kg with the four-cylinder (the heavier V6 means slightly less payload with that engine), and the cargo model's more spartan interior allows a payload up to 1,593 kg with the four-banger.
Because the Sprinter is considered a commercial vehicle, Natural Resources Canada doesn't list fuel consumption estimates for these vans, but 12.0 L/100 is realistic for a RWD four-cylinder model in combined driving in winter weather. Expect something like 13.5 L/100 km from a 4x4/V6 version in fairer conditions.
Despite sharing a badge with one of the world's best-known luxury car makers, the Sprinter is not an upscale vehicle. Standard kit includes air conditioning, adjustable passenger seat, front seat armrests, black cloth upholstery, electric heater booster, four-speaker stereo, tire pressure monitoring, crosswind and hill start assists, hydraulic jack, keyless entry, outside temperature display, storage shelf above windshield, passenger-side sliding door, tilt-and-telescopic steering and a trailer prep package.
Options include heated front seats, chrome grille, bi-xenon headlights, a driver assistance package (automatic headlights, reading lights, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors, collision prevention, blind spot, high beam and lane keeping assists), an auxiliary heater, convenience package (multifunction steering wheel, 12-volt in driver's seat base, trip computer and cruise control), comfort seat package, and a passenger comfort package that adds extra lighting, sliding door assist handles and rear-seat armrests.
Sprinter pricing starts at $41,900 for a cargo van; $49,500 for a passenger model; and $51,900 for 4x4 models.
