2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van Review: Cargo-Hauling Boss

Don't be fooled by its premium badge and luxury heritage; the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van is a genuinely proficient workhorse. It does bear an upscale impression with its high-quality build, commodious cabin, and many luxury features, but it's also presented with a variety of powertrain, body, and trim configurations and boasts a leading payload capacity and competitive towing capacity. It compares really well against the likes of the Ford Transit Cargo Van, Ram ProMaster Cargo Van, and Nissan NV Cargo despite its relatively expensive price tag. It can be had with one of three capable engines, ranging from a 188-horsepower, 258-lb-ft 4-cylinder motor to a 161-hp, 325-lb-ft 6-cylinder unit. But, no matter which you opt for, performance remains impressively polished and competent, and reasonably fuel-efficient, too. The 2021 Sprinter Cargo Van is an exceptional utility vehicle, but some may prefer a workhorse that prioritizes value and reliability over grandeur and appearances.

Sprinter Cargo Van Exterior

Dimensions

Sprinter Cargo Van Performance

Engine and Transmission

There are two engines put forward for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van. In the lower-spec 1500 and 2500 models is either a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 gas unit that's good for 188 hp and 258 lb-ft or a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel 4-cylinder dialed for 161 hp and 266 lb-ft. The naturally aspirated unit comes mated with a 9-speed automatic transmission while the turbocharged unit gets a 7-speed auto. Both powertrains are set up to cede power through the cargo van rear-wheel drivetrain. Every model from the 2500 upwards is given access to the new 3.0-liter turbocharged 6-cylinder diesel engine, which develops up to 188 hp and 325 lb-ft. It also comes mated with the 7-speed auto transmission. A RWD system is standard-fit with the V6, too, but it can be swapped out for an all-wheel drivetrain. The 2500 with the regular gasoline engine can tow only up to 5,000 pounds. With the V6 engine, the 3500 and 4500 models are rated for a 7,500-pound towing capacity.

Sprinter Cargo Van Interior

Sprinter Cargo Van Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

Verdict: Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van A Good Minivan?

Premium levels of comfort and refinement may not be the best qualities to boast for a utility van, but what makes the Sprinter Cargo Van so compelling is that it combines these novel traits with its genuine workhorse capability. The Sprinter Cargo Van, in fact, offers the class's leading payload capabilities and it can tow a fairly massive amount, too. Mercedes puts it forward with a variety of competent powertrain, drivetrain, and nifty body configurations as well, so the Sprinter can be set up to cater to a variety of requirements. It's also one of the only cargo vans available with an AWD system, which adds even more versatility to the mix. As with most utility vehicles, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van hasn't undergone review for an official safety rating, but it does come standard with a bunch of good driver-aids and safety features.

Mercedes-Benz peddles the 2021 Sprinter Cargo Van at a starting price of $36,355 in the USA, which is significantly more expensive than the non-premium-badged utility cars on the market. If you can afford the price, however, the third-generation Sprinter Cargo Van is certainly worth the investment.

What Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo Van Model Should I Buy?

The Sprinter Cargo Van is a highly configurable 5-door utility vehicle, so the model you go for will ultimately come down to your own daily requirements. The 1500 is the most affordable option but there are vans out there that offer a lot more at far more affordable prices. The 1500 is also restricted to the entry-spec gas engine and short wheelbase, so it's really limited in payload and towing capability. The 2500 and 3500 modes are a lot more customizable so you can configure them to meet your particular requirements. You'll want to consider either the 3500XD or the 4500 with the V6 opted-in if you're going to be towing and hauling hefty amounts on a regular basis, as both can also be equipped with dual rear wheels for added support and stability. We'd also suggest considering the Driver Convenience Package for the additional driver assists and safety systems it contains.