If you have not notice there has been some funny looking work van starting to show up in the past few years. They are thinner and smaller than the traditional work utility van the plumber or electrician usually drives around. This uncommon looking van is the Dodge Sprinter.
According to Car and Driver, Mercedes-Benz has been building a commercial van since 1995. This different kind of van first showed up in the United States in 2003.
The Dodge Sprinter was all about utility, interior room and transporting large numbers of passengers or lots of cargo. Meant for commercial use, as a mini bus or service van, you will not find any fancy stereo system. I must admit driver comfort is taken into consideration.
The first-generation Dodge Sprinter was built from 2003 to 2006, under the Freightliner brand, in 2002. At that time the van featured a 2.7 liter turbo diesel five cylinder engine producing 154 horsepower. It came standard with a five speed automatic transmission.
The second-generation Dodge Sprinter was sold from 2007 to 2009 with two model styles. Both models offered two wheelbases (144 and 170 inches), two body lengths (233 and 273 inches) and two roof heights (standard and high). The cargo van offers the same choices as the passenger model, but with a 289-inch body length and 84-inch (7 feet) Mega Roof height added.
Under the hood Mercedes built Dodge Sprinter was powered by either a 3.0 liter turbo diesel V6 creating a 154 horsepower, or a 3.5 liter gasoline V6 good for 254 horsepower.
When it came time for me to nail the gas mileage rating I had a little bit of a problem. The various engines sizes, roof heights, and gas or diesel gave to many variables. I did find there was a general agreement of 20 miles per gallon was to be expected.
AutoRecalls.us list quite a few recalls on the 2500 and 3500 models. They range from steering column to fuel system issues.
Now as to the cost. The configuration and model you want will make the difference. $40,000 to$33,000 will get you out the door for a new model. Used 2005 model will range from $17,500 to $14,000.
Bottom-line: I was disappoint to find the nearest Sprinter dealer from Boise Idaho was in Salt Lake City. An easy 300 miles away. That would mean if there were to be any mechanical problems I would have to get it 300 miles for the nearest warranty service. Now if my local Dodge dealer will cover the work, that would be a plus.
In our current economy where downsizing our lives is the smart choice. I do like the Dodge Spriniter.
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