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NEWS
Updated Benz Sprinter due here in October
Exterior changes are subtle, but Mercedes-Benz's big van introduces a raft of new safety equipmentMercedes-Benz has announced it will launch a substantial update to its Sprinter large van line-up in October.
The new Sprinter remains on the same platform as the current one, with aesthetic changes to front and rear end to distinguish it from the current model.
Revisions to the grille, from bumper and head and taillight clusters help identify the updated model as well as improving aerodynamics. To that end, the Sprinter’s chassis has also been lowered, making entry and exit, loading and unloading easier from the sides and rear.
Inside, the 2014 Sprinter gets new upholstery and trim, new steering wheel and gearshift and an audio makeover with a central screen which also provides a control centre for the optional satellite navigation system.
The major news, however, begins with a slew of new safety and driver assistance systems. Most of these are already available in Benz passenger cars, but several are firsts for the commercial segment.
The updated safety equipment list takes in...
- Adaptive high-beam assist. Maintains high-beam until its sensors detect oncoming traffic, at which point it switches to low-beam until light levels ahead drop enough for it to switch back up again.
- Lane-keeping assist. Uses downward-facing cameras to pick up when the vehicle crosses lane markers without evidence of intent through the indicator, accelerator or brake, warning the driver with an audible signal.
- Blind-spot assist. Uses sensors and warning lights in the wing mirrors to alert drivers to the presence of other vehicles in blind spots on either side. If it detects an intention to change lanes through the indicator, it adds a warning beep.
- Collision prevention assist. Combines an audible proximity warning and primes the brake assist systems when it detects the vehicle bearing down on another.
- Crosswind assist. Relies on the stability control (ESC) system to compensate for crosswind gusts at speeds of 80km/h or more, saving drivers the strain of countersteering.
Although the underpinnings remain the same, the incoming model amounts to more than a midlife facelift, Klaus Maier VP of sales and marketing for Benz’s van division, told media at a recent Sydney press conference. “I think it comes close being a new vehicle,” he said.
While overseas iterations will get engine updates pushing the Sprinter to Euro 6 emissions compliance, Aussie spec vans will retain the current range’s three-diesel line-up: 95kW/305Nm and 120kW/360Nm fours, plus a 140kW/440Nm V6. All are already Euro 5-compliant.
The Sprinter will come with a choice of six-speed manual or Benz’s now-familiar 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed auto transmission with lock-up clutch – claimed by the company to be the only auto of its kind available in a large van.
For those in search of extra traction, AWD with low-range is available with the fours or the six, auto or manual, for $21,990.
The Sprinter comes in a vast array of variants: cab chassis, bus or van in three wheelbases (3250/3665/4325mm) and three roof heights (1650/1940/2140mm internal, the latter on LWB only), with van versions offering cargo volume from 7.5 to 17 cubic metres and bus versions up to twelve seats. Pre-option prices currently range from a little under $47,690 to $79,990 plus ORCs.
The company isn’t discussing pricing for the new Sprinter yet, but local van division general manager Diane Tarr assured press it will positioned competitively, at least in the context of a safety suite putting it well ahead of competing product. “No competitor matches Sprinter on safety,” Ms Tarr said. “But yes, you’ll find it priced to secure and maintain our number one position in the market.”
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Written byJeremy Bass
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