The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter arrives in Spain from June

When it comes to commercial vehicles from Mercedes-Benz, we could say the Sprinter is its flagship, a model with a long track record in its segment, as well as thousands upon thousands of units on roads all over the world. Its first generation was launched 22 years ago, took 11 years to undergo a thorough renewal leading to the second generation, and now, after another 11 years in which it has barely been modified, we welcome the third generation of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

Aesthetically, the most significant change is at the front, where we still find the oversized grille, but now with a rounded outline. These smooth lines also extend to the bonnet, embracing the new light cluster, which gives it a more challenging look. As a result of these changes, the bumper is also slightly reshaped. Apart from that, we could almost say the rest of the new Sprinter remains unchanged.

But prospective owners of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter want more than mere looks; they also want spaciousness and functionality, which are essential in a vehicle intended for professional use. It remains just as versatile for adapting to all kinds of jobs, available with a panel van, crew van, open platform, or chassis with frame for fitting all types of bodies, minibus, or tractor unit only. All of this, of course, with different cab designs, lengths, payloads, heights… everything to allow us to configure up to more than 1,700 different versions, including motorhome or ambulance.

Inside the cab, everything has been designed with the driver’s comfort and safety as the main priorities, featuring elements such as the new ergonomic seats, keyless start, and an optimised air conditioning system. In the cargo area there are also solutions that allow greater and better storage; even in front-wheel-drive versions, the wheel arches are able to bear loads, while the heights allow maximum use of space. In this way, we can achieve a maximum load capacity of 17 cubic metres, with payloads of up to 5.5 tonnes.

The new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will also incorporate the latest safety solutions, highlighting elements such as the parking camera that displays images in the rear-view mirror, a 360º parking view system, or a rain sensor, among others. Nor should we forget important innovations in connectivity, where the Mercedes PRO Connect services stand out, combined with the MBUX multimedia system.

In terms of mechanics, the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will continue to offer rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, but now front-wheel drive is also added. Two new transmissions are also introduced for the front-wheel-drive versions: a new six-speed manual and, on the other hand, a nine-speed automatic with torque converter. The most basic engines will be 4-cylinder diesels, with outputs of 114, 143 and 163 CV, while the most powerful option is a V6 diesel delivering 190 CV. Next year, in 2019, the electric version called eSprinter will arrive.

The new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter can already be ordered through the brand’s dealership network in Spain, at a starting price of 23,532 euros for the Panel Van model, although deliveries will not begin until next June.