While Mercedes-Benz didn't invent the commercial van, it played a key role in revolutionizing it in North America. Originally sold as a captive import by Dodge and Freightliner before transitioning to wear the Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star, the Sprinter was the first of the European-style commercial vans to be sold in Canada. Since that time, Ford has brought over its Transit and Ram the Fiat-based ProMaster, each offering modern and efficient diesel power and an elevated seating and ride position.
Mercedes-Benz offers the Sprinter in a wide array of configurations in 2500 and 3500 forms, and with 144- and 170-inch wheelbases. Body styles include Cargo Van, Crew Van (Cargo Van with second-row seats and panel rear windows), Passenger Van, and Chassis Cab. Cargo Van, Crew Van, and Passenger Vans can also be configured with various roof heights - Standard, High, and Super High.
The Sprinter is available with a choice of two diesel engines - the default motor on both the 2500 and 3500 is a 2.1-litre four-cylinder that develops 161 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, and is paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes boasts class-leading efficiency with this powertrain configuration. Those frequently moving heavy loads can upgrade to the bigger, more powerful 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel that produces 188 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. It is paired to a five-speed automatic transmission.
Mercedes also offers the Sprinter in a 4x4 model for the Cargo Van and Passenger Van in 144-inch wheelbase and High Roof configurations. It's available exclusively with the V6, and features a proper four-wheel-drive system with low-range transfer case, elevated ride height, and all-terrain tires. The Sprinter is the only commercial van to offer factory-fitted four-wheel drive.
Depending on configuration, the Sprinter is able to carry up to 2,498 kg (5,508 lbs) of cargo, and has up to 16.6 cubic metres of space. With the Super High Roof configuration, the Sprinter has walk-in-friendly height of 2.21 metres. The Sprinter also has a max tow rating of 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) for when cargo can't fit inside its body.
While a basic industrial-grade workhorse, the Sprinter Vans are known for their nimble (for a commercial vehicle) handling and sprightly performance. They're also available with several unexpected features. Buyers can upgrade the interior to feature heated seats, automatic headlights and wipers, automatic high beams, bi-xenon headlamps, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and a collision prevention system. Navigation, reverse sensors, and a reverse camera can also be fitted.
The standard Sprinter is fitted with a single sliding door and 50/50 split rear doors. A second sliding door is available, as are electronically retractable side steps and a fixed rear step. Grey-finish bumpers and 16-inch steel wheels also come standard; buyers can add body colour finish and alloy wheels for a dressier look.
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