2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Crew Van

Though not as popular in the mainstream market as pickup trucks, crew and cargo vans alike are just as important in the commercial sectors of the USA. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Crew Van is not only one of the most premium, and expensive, crew vans but also one of the most versatile and pragmatic for running errands, especially in urban settings. It's presented with three different powertrains ranging from an entry-spec 2.0-liter four-pot unit with 188 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque to a 3.0L turbo-diesel 4-cylinder with 188 hp and 325 lb-ft. With two roof heights and wheelbase configurations, and a handful of interior modifications, the 2021 Sprinter Crew Van caters to many needs, but with the high price of the third-generation model, some may be compelled to look to more affordable alternatives such as the Ford Transit Connect Passenger Wagon, Ram ProMaster Window Van, or even the Nissan NV Passenger.

In standard guise, every 2021 Mercedes Sprinter Crew Van comes equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces up to 188 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. A 9-speed G-Tronic automatic transmission manages outputs, which can be directed to either the rear-or all-wheel drivetrain, depending on what's chosen. In terms of performance, this powertrain is ideal for an urban runabout with its brisk acceleration responses and reliable delivery of power. There are, however, two turbo-diesel units available - a 161-hp, 266-lb-ft 2.0-liter 4-cylinder unit and a 188-hp, 325-lb-ft 3.0-liter V6. Both come mated with a 7-speed auto transmission and provide a lot more grunt off the line. This makes them ideal for dealing with hefty payloads. Every choice will impact the Sprinter Crew Van's towing capacity rating, which ranges between 5,000 and 7,500 pounds.

The Sprinter Crew Van may be one of the more expensive 5-door utility vans out there, but it's clear where Mercedes has applied all the extra premium value. It's a fairly good-looking van that certainly exudes its upscale, high-end stature, and the driver and passengers also get to enjoy Mercedes' embodiment of luxury within the spacious, comfortable, and featureful cabin. Driving the Sprinter Crew Van is a pleasant experience, too, as it's confident, compliant, and nicely maneuverable, especially in urban settings. It's frugal enough to be a savvy long-term investment for a business owner, too. With its variety of powertrain, body, and interior configurations, the Sprinter is also a highly versatile utility vehicle that can haul an impressive amount of cargo. Most vans are not submitted to crashworthiness evaluations so while the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Crew Van hasn't undergone review for a safety rating, it does come with a comprehensive consignment of standard and optional driver-aids and safety systems, as well as a German pedigree of reliability. With its $41,375 start price, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Crew Van is a really pricey option, but if you can afford it, it's perhaps the best route to go.

Your choice when it comes to commercial cars really comes down to what you require in capability and which features you want. Short wheelbase models can be had with either the low or high roofs and the long-wheelbase models with the high roof only. The high roof does improve ingress and egress for the rear area, and the wheelbase options will determine the maximum payload, so we recommend going for the LWB versions for both advantages. In terms of which powertrain to go for, the diesel 6-cylinder engine is the one to go for its additional power and improved fuel economy. The 2500 is the most affordable model but also the least capable, while the top-spec 4500 is the most expensive and most capable. You can attain the Sprinters max 7,500-pound towing capacity by opting for the mid-spec 3500, however.