Its versatility makes it an excellent ally for work and an excellent travel companion. Photo Mario Quinteros. Courtesy: Silos Areneros and Alfredo Segatori
The Mercedes Benz sprinter is a registered trademark of the national industry, and 25 years after the start of its production in the Juan Manuel Fangio industrial complex, in La Matanza, today it has already become a real phenomenon. And for various reasons.
First, because for seven uninterrupted years it was the undisputed leader in its segmentdespite being the most expensive model.
In 2021 the Sprinter managed to exceed 50% market share, thanks to the fact that it offers a wide range of 20 variants (short, medium and long van; mixed van; chassis; combi) which has become the most complete on the market.
Ample cargo space and better access thanks to the door opening at 270 °. Photo Mario Quinteros.
Secondly, because it has become the first domestic production model to be exported to the United Statesone of the most competitive markets in the utility segment.
And third, because it shows that its validity after three generations remains intact.
a special edition
In its 25 years of national production, more than 350 thousand units of Sprinter. And to pay homage to him, last year the brand launched a special anniversary edition that was “assembled” by customers based on preference and detail surveys of their equipment.
The sliding side gate facilitates access to the rear seat and load compartment.
The curious thing, or not, is that already limited series is out of stockalthough users of other versions you can customize your units with the same or other accessories that the brand offers as optional.
To go into detail, the exclusive elements present in the special version tested by Clarin cars These are: alloy wheels, body-colored grille surround, bright metallic paint, rear doors with 270 ° opening and double sliding side gate (Van version).
As for the equipment, this Mixed van it also adds a luxurious dashboard and leather trim to the steering wheel and gear lever.
The safety equipment, for its part, is identical to that of the rest of the range, standing out driver assistance systems such as the autonomous emergency braking system and the fatigue alert assistant (warns the driver after a good period of driving or when interpreting delayed reactions at the wheel).
The Sprinter offers comfort and safety features similar to those of any car. It also has driver assistance systems.
It also has dual front airbags, Adaptive Stability Control, Side Wind Assist, Cruise Control and Hill Start Assist.
On the comfort side, nothing is missing and it is at the height of any machine: multimedia system with 7-inch touch screen, connection for smartphones (Android Auto and Apple Car Play), digital climate control, dashboard with on-board computer, multifunction steering wheel and height and depth adjustable steering column that allows you to find the perfect position maneuverability.
The mixed version is characterized by the addition of a second row of seats, which allows you to expand the capacity from two to five occupants.
Air conditioning with digital display. Photo Mario Quinteros
Of course, despite having a hybrid concept, both for fun with the family and as a work vehicle, it is surprising that behind the rear seats it does not have a net or rigid separation (the van version has it) which serves to protect passengers in the event of an unexpected maneuver.
The great news is that, despite its size and capabilities, this Sprinter can be driven with the conventional license category B1 (cars, commercial vehicles and vans up to 3,500 kilos).
dynamic behavior
Sitting behind the wheel, the driving sensation is as good as the ride comfort. The independent front suspension and rigid rear suspension make city driving at its best, even when fully loaded.
Like any mixed-use vehicle, the cargo area should be separated from the passenger area by a containment net or rigid panel. Photo Mario Quinteros
Mechanically it mounts the well-known 2.2-liter CDI 316 bi-turbo diesel engine that develops a power of 163 horses and delivers a maximum torque of 360 Nm that allow it to move without suffering any kind of impact.
The engine is associated with a 6-speed manual gearbox which, together, weighs on its ride comfort and behavior.
Stabilizer bars along with electronic assistance controls smooth body roll in certain situations and allow for safer driving. Of course, everything has a limit, especially in this version with a high roof measuring 2.62 meters high.
In 2021, the brand launched a special edition to commemorate 25 years of production in Argentina. Photo Mario Quinteros.
The Sprinter Mixed Van concept makes it an ideal vehicle for eternal journeys or the perfect work companion. Yes, it should be noted, whatever its use, that the cockpit is very well soundproofed, which also makes it possible to forget that it is a utility vehicle.
The load compartment offers a volume of 4.5 square meters that can be divided into sectors thanks to a large number of hooks positioned on the floor and on the bodywork. While to facilitate entry and exit, it has two rear doors with a maximum opening of 270 ° which are completed by a bracket and a sliding side door.
end prices
Mixed versions of van
- Sprinter CDI 311 Mixed 3250: $ 49,146
- Sprinter CDI 316 Mixed 3665 High Roof: $ 54,971
- Sprinter CDI 416 Mixed 3664 High Roof: $ 56,149
Data sheet
Length: 5,932 mm
Width: 2,020 mm
Height: 2,620 mm
Wheelbase: 3,665 mm
Loading area length: 2,502 mm
Load compartment width: 1,787 mm
Loading volume: 4.5 m2
Load capacity: 1,210 kg
Drag capacity: 2,000 kg
Fuel tank: 71 liters
Tires: 225/75 R16
Engine: Diesel, 2.2 liters, twin turbo
Power: 163 hp (3,800 rpm)
Torque: 360 Nm (1,400-2,400 rpm)
Rear-wheel Drive
Gearbox: Manual, 6-speed
Maximum speed: 160 km / h
Average consumption: 8.7 l / 100 km
Seating configuration: 2 + 3
Equipment in evidence Anniversary version
front front airbags
adaptive stability control
Autonomous emergency brake
Fatigue alert assistant
rear view camera
automatic speed adjustment
7-inch touch screen
Android Auto and Apple Car Play
Thanks: Silos Areneros Buenos Aires (@silos_areneros www.silosareneros.com.ar) / Alfredo Sagatori (@alfredosagatori)
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Source: Clarin
