by Aiden Eksteen
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.
Many advanced driver-assistance aids such as rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, downhill speed regulation, drive-away assist, trailer stability assist, and more became available last year, but the range has been left mostly as is for 2021. However, two roof heights are now available and more safety features are standard. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine joins the lineup and new paint options are offered, while others have been dropped for the new year.
See trim levels and configurations:
| Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Price (MSRP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2500 |
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Diesel
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
3.0L Turbo V6 Diesel
|
7-Speed Automatic
9-Speed Automatic
|
Rear-Wheel Drive
Four-Wheel Drive
|
$41,375 |
| 3500 |
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Diesel
3.0L Turbo V6 Diesel
|
7-Speed Automatic
|
Rear-Wheel Drive
|
$46,935 |
| 3500XD |
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Diesel
3.0L Turbo V6 Diesel
|
7-Speed Automatic
|
Rear-Wheel Drive
Four-Wheel Drive
|
$49,345 |
| 4500 |
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Diesel
3.0L Turbo V6 Diesel
|
7-Speed Automatic
|
Rear-Wheel Drive
|
$51,445 |
NHTSA safety ratings are not available at this time.
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.
The most popular competitors of 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Crew Van:
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