My experience on the fuel efficiency drive route saw a reduction from 21 to 18 L/100 km when suggested fuel efficient techniques were applied. Both numbers, however, were higher than I expected from an unloaded Sprinter, although Mercedes-Benz suggests 36 per cent lower fuel costs than the Chevrolet Express, and 34 per cent lower than the Ford E-Series.
  Sprinter on Tour; photos by Paul Williams. Click image to enlarge |
The most impressive demonstration of the Sprinter’s handling ability (and safety) was experienced with Mr. Koch behind the wheel of a specially prepared vehicle that was fitted with outriggers. Back on a closed course, and carrying a 660-litre tank of water supported by a steel structure bolted to the cargo floor, the elevated 2,500-pound load (including the structure) made the vehicle top-heavy and inherently unstable.
Locating the water tank high in the vehicle was an extreme test of the Sprinter’s standard Adaptive Electronic Stability Program. Adaptive ESP is designed to react based on the vehicle’s mass, centre of gravity, acceleration and braking, all of which change depending on load and driving conditions.
With three passengers in the vehicle, Mr. Koch disabled the Adaptive ESP system, accelerated to about 60 km/h then sharply changed direction to avoid an obstacle (cones) without using the brake. The effect was dramatic, causing the Sprinter’s passenger-side front and rear wheels to leave the ground, tipping it to the point that the outriggers prevented a potential rollover.
With the Adaptive ESP turned on, the same manoeuvre was attempted. Not only didn’t the wheels leave the ground, but Mr. Koch was able to maintain steering control, avoiding the obstacle and avoiding a potentially catastrophic event. Granted, Mr. Koch is a professional performance driver, but the point was made.
Compared with its domestic competition, the Sprinter is an altogether more modern vehicle. The seats are more comfortable, driver amenities more comprehensive, the floor is lower, the roof is taller, the engine is smoother and the handling is more agile and responsive (but despite the lower floor, a grab-handle on the A-pillar would be appreciated).
At a starting price of $42,900 for the 2500 cargo van, the Sprinter is nonetheless more expensive to purchase than its competitors. Operators will have to factor in fuel economy, 15,000 km maintenance intervals, larger payload and the overall productivity of the Sprinter to determine their business case.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter starting prices
Cargo 2500: $42,900
Cargo 3500: $48,800
Passenger: $47,900
Freight: $1,995
