2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter Pros vs Cons

If you're a business owner who's in the market for a commercial van, take a serious look at the 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Although the Sprinter is designed to work hard, it's more than just a basic vehicle for moving people and cargo. No other commercial van in the industry delivers a more luxurious driving experience. Mercedes-Benz gives you access to a wide range of different configurations. In terms of pricing, expect the Sprinter to be more expensive than the competition.

What's New for 2019?

Mercedes-Benz now offers LED taillights and more in-vehicle technology. The updated front fascia helps spruce up the van's exterior styling. To aid performance, a new transmission has been introduced.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter – The Pros

1. Easy to Drive

Vans have never been known for delivering an enjoyable driving experience. However, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter bucks tradition with its precise driving dynamics. It's an incredibly easy vehicle to maneuver. Drivers will certainly appreciate the Sprinter's electronic steering system, which begins to feel sportier at highway speeds. Even when taking curves, this van is more graceful than the typical commercial vehicle. A tight turning radius makes the Sprinter even more rewarding in tight spots.

2. Hard-Working Diesel Engine

Under the hood of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter sits a six-cylinder turbodiesel. It's durable and packs plenty of muscle. Mercedes-Benz tuned it to develop 190 horsepower and a beefy 325 pound-feet of torque. A new seven-speed transmission has arrived as well. Although the Sprinter isn't built for speed, its high-torque engine ensures good pulling power and confident acceleration. When called upon, this van will have no trouble towing up to a 7,500-pound load.

3. A 4WD System Available

A traditional 2WD system comes standard on the 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. However, drivers needing the maximum traction should go for the optional 4WD system. Even during the aftermath of a snowstorm, you'll be able to stay on the move. If you need to travel to a rural area that doesn't have paved roads, the available 4WD system should also come in handy. Drivers will have an extra peace of mind.

4. Looks More Upscale Than the Typical Commercial Van

Although the 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is not a show pony, it does look a bit more upscale than the average commercial van. Business owners looking to attract more clientele will appreciate the Sprinter's rather refined styling. The van's large Mercedes-Benz grille will instantly catch your eye. Xenon headlights and 16-inch alloy wheels add to the Sprinter's classy look. Keep in mind that several aftermarket appearance upgrades are available for the Sprinter.

5. Big and Comfy People Mover

Companies can take full advantage of the Sprinter's spacious cabin. There's definitely plenty of space to go around. Occupants will be able to ride without feeling confined. Comfortable seats make the Sprinter even more accomodating. Optional heated front seats provide an extra measure of warmth during the winter. Although the Sprinter sits a bit high off the ground, a door step makes it easy for passengers to climb inside.

6. Simple Interior Layout

When on the interstate for long periods of time, drivers will grow to appreciate the Sprinter's simple interior layout. They won't have to worry about getting distracted while on the road. Readable gauges enable you to keep tabs on your speed. All of the key controls are easy for drivers to reach. Steering-wheel-mounted controls enable you to perform several functions without diverting your attention away from the road. Meanwhile, adjusting the climate system is a simple task that only takes a few seconds.

7. Visibility Not Bad for a Van

Good outward visibility makes the 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter a more rewarding commercial vehicle for drivers. Large windows help you to keep an eye out for other vehicles and pedestrians. Although drivers will encounter some obstructions, the optional blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert helps solve this issue. Mercedes also offers a 360-degree parking camera, which proves to be a big help in busy cities.

8. New Infotainment System

This year, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a new touch-screen infotainment system. While a 7.0-inch screen comes standard, buyers can opt for a class-leading 10.3-inch display. Regardless of which size screen you choose, you'll be treated to high-resolution graphics. Most importantly, the interface works very well. Drivers can also control the the new infotainment system via a touchpad on the steering wheel.

9. Technology to Keep You Connected

With the internet being such a vital part of most businesses, having a commercial vehicle with modern technology is important. The Sprinter's available Wi-Fi hot spot enables you and your passengers to easily link to the web. If you run a transportation service, your clients will certainly appreciate the extra convenience. By making voice commands, you can use the new MBUX infotainment system to help find destinations.

10. Driver-Assist Safety Technologies

In the past, commercial vans were devoid of any cutting-edge safety technologies. Luckily, things have changed for the better. A number of advanced driving aids are offered on the new 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Crosswind Assist comes standard. When traveling on the highway, this cutting-edge technology helps keep the van stable during strong wind gusts. Some of the other available safety innovations include forward collision mitigation, smart cruise, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter – The Cons

1. More Expensive Than the Competition

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is widely considered to be the best commercial van you can buy. In exchange of the Sprinter's luxurious character, you are forced to pay extra. Prices for the new Sprinter passenger van start at nearly $40,000. Adding the nice options will add to the total cost. Some companies may not be able to afford a full fleet of Sprinter vans. The Ram ProMaster has a more affordable price tag.

2. Not a Quick Vehicle

Mercedes-Benz's diesel engine gives the Sprinter a solid punch. Nevertheless, this vehicle is not going to break any performance records. It has a tested 0-60 time of around 11.5 seconds. While this issue is unlikely to concern most buyers, you'll find the Ram Promaster to be much quicker off the line.

3. Four-Cylinder Diesel Not Currently Available

Later in the production year, a four-cylinder diesel engine will be offered. It's perfect for light loads. Folks who can't wait will have to settle for the six-cylinder diesel engine. While the six-cylinder packs more power and is much better for towing, it isn't as efficient as the smaller four-cylinder engine. This could be a concern for the companies who are trying to limit their fuel expenses.

4. No Crash Tests Available

Because of its classification, no crash tests are available for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. While the Sprinter does have a high-strength frame, crash scores would give buyers more confidence.

5. Base Model Doesn't Pack Much Equipment

If you decide to stick with the base Sprinter, you'll be sacrificing some luxury. It only comes equipped with the basic essentials like A/C and power windows. Buyers who desire a greater number of premium features should prepare to spend more money.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

One of the Sprinters primary rivals is the 2019 Ram ProMaster. While the Ram ProMaster isn't as luxurious, it does has a more attractive price tag. It also accelerates quicker than the new Sprinter. Nevertheless, certain nicities are only found on the Sprinter. You can't get the Ram ProMaster with safety technologies like Crosswind Assist and driver attention monitoring. Furthermore, only the 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers a 4WD system.

The Nissan NV is also a popular fleet vehicle. It's practical and powerful. You'll also notice the NV's much lower MSRP and cheaper cost of maintenance. However, don't expect the Nissan NV to provide the comfort of the new Sprinter.

You should also consider the 2019 Ford Transit. To no surprise, the Ford Transit is less expensive than its German competitor. However, it does not match the Sprinter's level of luxuriousness.

Conclusion

If you want the most luxurious commercial van available, look no further than the 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. From its updated steering wheel to its upholstery, every aspect of the Sprinter has a premium feel. Several high-end features are offered, including a new wide-screen display and push-button start. While the Sprinter is hard to beat, you must pay more for its upscale design. Furthermore, the lack of a gas engine makes the Sprinter slower than the competition.