MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER
New 3rd generation Mercedes-Benz Sprinter demonstrates that some things need to change, and some things don’t.
As we know, ‘connectivity’ is a bit of a buzz-word in the motoring world at the moment, particularly in the latest passenger vehicles and particulary at Mercedes-Benz, producer of some of the world’s most luxurious vehicles as well as a diverse and popular array of commercial vehicles. Its most popular product is the Sprinter van, and it too is focused more on connectivity than ever before.
The new Sprinter could fairly be called the most advanced commercial vehicle on the market thanks to the ‘Mercedes PRO connect’ system that it operates. Mercedes says it can “intelligently connect fleet managers, drivers and vehicles in real time” and uses telematics and connectivity together to offer features such as driving style analysis, 24hr ‘optimised assistance’, fleet management and communication and improved navigation as well as digital records. Intelligent driver assistance and safety systems and comfort features enhance the overall driver experience, as does the ‘MBUX’ touchscreen infotainment system.
In terms of space and dimensions, Mercedes-Benz has made sure that the new Sprinter is exactly the same size as the last generation, allowing for businesses with existing Sprinter-specific adaptations to carry them across seamlessly into the new model. It comes with a choice of 2 wheelbases, 3 lengths and 2 roof heights. Synergy customers can also choose between various bodystyles – panel van, chassis cab, dropside, crew, as well as a mini-bus variant called the tourer. In the near future, an all-wheel drive model is also expected to be added to the range.
Powering the Sprinter is most frequently going to be the 2.1-litre turbo diesel, available in one of three different power outputs. However, the Sprinter is also the only van of its type that offers a 6-cylinder, 3.0-litre diesel for extra grunt. A choice of 6-speed manuals or a 7-speed automatic gearbox is available depending on your chosen specification, and rather excitingly, Mercedes-Benz has suggested that an all-electric Sprinter will be with us before the end of this decade.
Overall, this is a very exciting new van from Mercedes-Benz offering features nobody else can yet match. In that sense, for now at least, the Sprinter has raced ahead of the pack.