![]() ![]() That’s the one safety system we relied on the most, particularly because the Sprinter’s side and rearview mirrors are too small for the job. In our time driving the new Sprinter, we gained a new-found sense of appreciation for owners who drove vans like this before the invention of blind spot-assist systems. Even this shorter 144-inch wheelbase model (a longer model offers a 170-inch wheelbase) glides well over bumps and road imperfections, and the tightness of the van’s build quality manages to quell the structural shudder we’ve experienced in other older large vans. Mercedes probably sells far more Sprinters for commercial use than for passenger hauling, so it wouldn’t be surprising if comfort, specifically ride quality, weren’t a priority in this van’s development. Mercedes’ also did a great job muffling the sound of the engine even when it’s working hard, you hardly hear it. Its dance partner, a 9-speed automatic transmission, deserves much of the credit, as its shift timing and gear choices were nearly always spot on. Even with nine people aboard, the four-cylinder engine had little issue accelerating onto highways or passing slower traffic. ![]() This little 2.0-liter’s 188 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque left our mind at ease, though, once we got behind the wheel. How could such a small engine handle not only the weight of such a large van but everything it’s designed to carry, from nearly 3,500 pounds of cargo to 15 people in the case of the longest wheelbase version. When Mercedes announced it would be offering the new Sprinter with a turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine for the first time, we were surprised. Our takeaway: the new Sprinter is an impressive machine that drives far smaller than it looks and is more comfortable than its work roots might suggest. I also like the ability to sweep out the floor and wipe off the optional MBtex vinyl seats.We spent our time behind the wheel driving family hither and yon across northern California – on long highway stretches, through twisty terrain, up and down elevations, and in the city. For a commercial van it's quiet and comfortable very smooth ride even on rough Maryland roads. Backup camera could be better (limited field of vision, not very wide or deep behind) but the lines are helpful, and kept us from damage. Not wanting to back up into a busy street I turned that van completely around without backing up the turn circle is so tight you need to be mindful of curves. Finally, I got stuck in a dead end street, about 2 lanes wide. Anyone considering one of these keep the commercial roots in mind any of the minivans or 3 row crossovers would be much better suited for comfort however, for an overall package, you can't beat the overall utility. MPG is impressive, getting about 25 overall on 87 octane, and have been running it the entire trip without issue. We hit the usual DC area rush hour traffic and the van made it much easier to navigate, much less stress. Once sorted acceleration is great cruise control is very responsive. Seem-less shifting if left alone however, use the paddles to downshift and the trans gets confused for a second, not sure if it needs to be in higher or lower gear. ![]() Engine and transmission work especially well together to get and keep van moving. Powertrain is excellent much more useable power then expected. Otherwise, dated infotainment worked for my needs, and navigation got us where we needed. ![]() However, both kids got their own seats for a change, so little complaining. Being based on a cargo van none of the seats are very comfortable, even with the optional "drivers comfort" package rear seats are atrocious (zero adjustability about as utilitarian as church pews). After 4 hours needed to get a … seat cushion for extra support. First leg from Jax to DC, about 750 miles non-stop. Taking a trip with the family for 3 weeks, starting in Jacksonville, FL, going through DC, Hershey, Columbus and Dayton, Ohio, Dearborn, Michigan and back through NC before returning home about, 2,000 miles roundtrip. Van is borrowed from my mother, who put just under 3,000 miles on it in about 6 months. ![]()
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