Mercedes-Benz Vans division debuts a new base model of its popular Sprinter van it calls the WORKER. When it goes on sale in Spring 2016, it will be the most cost-effective way to get into a Sprinter. This is a light-duty cargo model of the van with a short wheelbase and a standard roof height. It includes only the basics and starts at a remarkable $32,495 (before the $995 destination charge).
Why is the WORKER model price a big deal? The current starting price for a Sprinter is $36,495, so you are looking at a significant discount of $4,000.
How does the price compare to the competition? The class-leading Ford Transit starts at $30,960, but Ford’s base model uses a normally aspirated 3.7L V6 gasoline engine. The Sprinter WORKER comes with a 2.1L four-cylinder that is good for 161 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired to a 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
The 3.2L I5 turbodiesel in the Ford Transit is more powerful (185 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque), but a diesel-powered Transit starts at $36,605.
The Sprinter WORKER comes in a 144-inch wheelbase. Maximum payload and towing are rated at 3,512 lbs and 5,000 lbs respectively.
The rest of the standard features include:
- Crosswind Assist
- Power windows
- Adjustable armrest
- Five standard cup holders
- Air conditioning
- 4-speaker sound system with BLUETOOTH
- Full-size spare wheel/tire
- Black steel wheels
- 180-degree rear doors
- Driver and passenger overhead storage
- Six standard airbags
