Overview

What's New for 2021

Mercedes-Benz builds the Sprinter Cargo Van in 33 body and powertrain configurations, allowing buyers to select the vehicle that fits their needs. It's available in light- and heavy-duty platforms, several wheelbase lengths, and two roof heights. You can choose from rear- or four-wheel-drive and gas or diesel engines.

Starting prices range from $36,500 to $57,000, before options. This makes the Sprinter one of the priciest vans in its class, but it comes well-equipped to help it remain competitive. Standard features include four-wheel disc brakes, an automatic transmission, a full-size spare tire, a backup camera, automatic headlights, and power heated outside mirrors. The two-seat passenger compartment includes cloth bucket seats, automatic power windows, keyless entry, cruise control, air conditioning, a 5.8-inch infotainment display, a USB port, Bluetooth, and a five-speaker AM/FM sound system.

One of the areas the Sprinter stands out from the competition is with its upscale optional amenities. The technology list reads like that of a luxury sedan, with wireless smartphone charging, navigation, a surround-view camera, and rain-sensing wipers. A 10.25-inch touchscreen is also available. Mercedes-Benz also offers comfort features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats. A suite of available driver safety tech helps the Sprinter and its occupants stay safe on long-distance travels, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-keep assistance, and adaptive cruise control.

Mercedes-Benz offers shoppers a range of commercial upfit solutions for electricians, plumbers, HVAC, telecom, delivery, catering, and general services. Customers can customize the Sprinter with a refrigeration unit, plywood flooring, ladder racks, toolboxes, additional insulation, and more.

Mercedes-Benz has long offered gas and diesel engines for the Sprinter. Another diesel debuted for the 2020 model year that is smaller and more fuel-efficient. That motor is a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder producing 161 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. It doesn't give the Sprinter a ton of speed, but it is plenty of torque for hauling heavy items around town and on the highway. Like the other motors, it is mated to an automatic transmission.

A more powerful diesel is also available, a 3.0-liter turbo V6 producing 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. Despite the added power, the engine remains surprisingly quiet at speed. It also has plenty of low-end torque for hauling cargo, towing trailers, or maneuvering steep hills.

Those wanting a smoother and more refined ride can opt for a traditional gas powertrain. The 2.0-liter turbo-four produces 188 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.

The Sprinter has a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds, with up to 6,636 pounds of payload.

The Sprinter Cargo has the same driver layout as the Sprinter Passenger Van and other models in the lineup. It is open, airy, and modern, with great small-item storage and excellent outward visibility. The German luxury brand's refinement shows through in the uncluttered dashboard, where all of the buttons feel well-crafted, and there are minimal panel gaps. The Sprinter's seats are very supportive, and they can be equipped with power lumbar and seat heaters. Other options include a leather-wrapped steering wheel with multifunction buttons.

One of the best things about the Sprinter is its emphasis on driver technology. Customers can add advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, which remove some of the strain on long highway trips. Other technology also makes life easier. A 5.8-inch color screen is standard, and it controls all of the vehicle's music and infotainment features. The system is intuitive and includes Bluetooth for hands-free calling and music streaming. Customers can upgrade this system with 7.0- and 10.25-inch screens, both of which have Mercedes' upgraded MBUX infotainment software. Navigation is available.

The Sprinter offers up to 533 cubic feet of space behind the front seats, allowing it to hold dozens of boxes with ease. There are tie-down points located throughout the cargo area for securing items to the floor or walls. Customers can select from plastic or plywood flooring, and a power-sliding cargo door is available.