The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a comfortable workhorse that offers a burst of G-wagen capability. With a wide range of configurations, it can meet the needs of both haulers and outdoor adventurers. Still, its starting price is noticeably higher than full-size van rivals like the Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster. The Sprinter is offered with three four-cylinder engine options—two turbodiesels and one turbocharged gasoline engine—each mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission and the optional 4Matic all-wheel drive system are similar to those found in Mercedes-Benz passenger cars such as the E-Class and S550. The Merc tractor is available with dual rear axle, different roof heights and three different body styles: cargo, crew and passenger. Technical offers include a 10.3-inch touchscreen and various driver assistance systems. Huge interior space means there's plenty of room to make the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter your next work van, AirBnB RV, or whatever.
The range of Sprinter van engines has been changed for 2023 and includes only in-line four-cylinder engines: turbodiesels with a capacity of 168 or 208 hp. and a gas engine with a capacity of 188 hp. The 188-horsepower V-6 has been discontinued. All engines are now mated to a new nine-speed automatic gearbox, replacing the old model's seven-speed gearbox.The revised 4Matic all-wheel drive system uses a longer first gear for better acceleration and smoother operation. Power distribution has been changed to 50-50 between the front and rear axles instead of the previous 35-65 percent split in last year's Sprinter.
With so many options and prices, the best Sprinter we can offer is the one that fits your specific needs. However, we recommend saving a little money for option packages that include available van safety systems. We recommend the Driver Convenience package (blind spot monitor, driver attention monitor, power exterior mirrors, etc.) and the Premium package, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, a 7.0-inch touchscreen, and more.
Engine, transmission and performance
All Sprinter cargo, passenger and van models are offered with three engine options. The standard transmission is a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a capacity of 188 hp. Other options consist of a four-cylinder turbodiesel with a capacity of 170 hp. with 295 lb-ft of torque and a more powerful 211 hp twin-turbo diesel. with 332 lb-ft of torque. Each engine uses a nine-speed automatic transmission. While that's not much power for such a large vehicle, it's more than enough for light jobs. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available on every Sprinter minibus. For comparison, the Ford Transit is also offered with all-wheel drive.
Towing and load capacity
With the onboard diesel engine, the Sprinter's maximum towing capacity is 7,500 pounds, and the cargo van model can carry up to 6,812 pounds of payload. Go for the turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with a maximum payload of 5,000 pounds and a maximum payload of 4,453 pounds.
Fuel economy and actual miles per gallon
Fuel economy is not estimated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 8,500 pounds. The last Benz minivan we tested was the 2019 Sprinter 3500XD with the discontinued 188-hp turbodiesel V-6 and seven-speed automatic. In our 75 mph highway fuel economy test, it managed 15 mpg.
Interior, comfort and cargo
The Sprinter offers more interior refinement than its full-size van competitors. Its interior trim and features like an available leather steering wheel and a large 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen put it a notch above the Ram ProMaster, Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana. The attention Mercedes paid to noise reduction in the cabin saves the brain during long journeys and reduces the strain on the hearing from daily use. Sprinter seats have the right shape, so they do not break your back after many hours behind the wheel; an available swivel seat package makes boarding and disembarking easier.The Sprinter offers more interior space than some New York City apartments—as much as 533 cubic feet in Cargo versions. That's more than you get in the largest version of the Ford Transit. Passenger versions of the Sprinter with a 144-inch wheelbase are designed to seat 12 people comfortably, while versions with a 170-inch wheelbase can seat 15 people.
Infotainment and connectivity
In-cabin entertainment is rarely a high priority in this class, so Mercedes keeps the most sophisticated cabin equipment as optional extras. The standard audio system is a basic AM/FM radio with a small LCD screen, Bluetooth and a single USB-C port. The Premium package includes an updated system with a 7.0-inch touchscreen, while the Premium Plus package includes a 10.3-inch screen, navigation and a wireless phone charging pad. Both option packages also include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety and driver assistance functions
Mercedes provides the Sprinter with a list of driver assistance technologies, but most of the systems offered are optional. For more information on Sprinter crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key security features:
Standard automatic emergency braking
A blind spot monitor is available
Available lane keeping assistant
Warranty and maintenance coverage
The Mercedes-Benz Limited Warranty on the Sprinter is typical for this class. However, its drivetrain is longer than most.Mercedes also does not pay for scheduled maintenance.
The limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
The transmission is warranted for five years or 60,000 miles
No free scheduled maintenance
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