Sprinter Crew Van Offers Both Versatility and Functionality

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter was all-new for 2019 and is built on a modular chassis with all-new engines –  a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four cylinder gasoline engine and a turbocharged 3.0L V-6 diesel. The gasoline engine is coupled to a nine-speed automatic transmission and the diesel engine is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. 

Recently Automotive Fleet test drove the  2019 Sprinter 2500 Crew Van. The five-seat Crew Van is offered on a  144-inch wheelbase. It is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L inline four-cylinder gasoline engine that can generate 188 horsepower with 258 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm. It is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. 

The 2500 Crew Van has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 9,050 pounds.

Driving Impressions

The Sprinter is known for its high-roof profile that provides excellent road visibility through its large front windshield looking over a short, sloped front hood. The large electronically folding side mirrors provide excellent side visibility, along with a rear view camera.

The ride quality is excellent and it provides good cornering despite the higher center of gravity. 

When driving on the open road, there is minimal sway due to its standard Crosswind Assist that keeps the vehicle in its lane.

The Sprinter Crew Van also has an excellent driving range due to its 22-gallon fuel tank. 

Interior Configuration

The Sprinter Crew Van features two rows of seats, allowing the transport of five occupants. The seating configuration features two front bucket seats and a second row three-passenger  bench seat. The Crew Van offers driver and passenger side fixed windows on the side of the vehicle, providing increased side visibility. 

Behind the second row bench seat is a large cargo area that can be accessed by a sliding door on the passenger side of the vehicle and dual rear doors. The Sprinter Crew Van offers a payload capacity that ranges from 2,941 to 3,341 pounds. With the high roof, drivers who are 6-foot-2 or shorter can stand inside the Sprinter without stooping.

The rear doors open a standard 180 degrees, but our test drive model was equipped with the optional 270 degree rear opening doors. If trailering is required, the Sprinter Crew Van is capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds. 

The Sprinter offers  a suite of safety options. Among the array of safety and assistance systems are active cruise control, lane-keep assist and blind-spot assist, plus active brake assist (with cross-traffic), Crosswind Assist, Hill Start Assist, and Attention Assist, which warns drivers when they become drowsy or distracted.