Mercedes-Benz Vans updates Sprinter and Vito
BY MATT BROGAN | 19th Apr 2024
MERCEDES-BENZ Vans says it wants to further expand its position in the premium van segment globally, giving it a “decisive competitive advantage” over the competition.
Before the German marque begins the introduction of models based on its Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA) from 2026, it has first updated the current Sprinter and Vito ranges to offer greater comfort, safety, and functionality.
“Our product range is fundamentally geared towards the needs and industry-specific requirements of our customers,” stated Mercedes-Benz Vans head of sales and marketing Klaus Rehkugler.
“As we serve may system-relevant industries with our vans, our portfolio will include combustion and electric drives beyond 2030.
“Strategically, we are therefore focussing on the consistent electrification of our product architecture but are also in a position to meet the demand for conventionally powered vehicles very flexibly in different markets around the world.”
For the large segment Sprinter, Mercedes has added next-generation driver and safety technologies and an increased the number of eSprinter body variants offered.
Mercedes has further endowed the Sprinter range with a new 10.25-inch digital instrument screen and 10.25-inch infotainment screen with upgraded operating system, extended voice control functions, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
The infotainment system may also be controlled via capacitive controls on the steering wheel spokes.
A revised camera system – important for parking and manoeuvring – now offers a 360-degree field of view on selected models and can show how much distance is required behind the vehicle for safe unloading.
Further, the camera system now works with the autonomous emergency braking system to provide forward direction low-speed monitoring.
The new front camera also makes the active lane-keeping assist tech more useful than before, adding steering assistance to keep the van centred within lane markings.
Mercedes-Benz Vans has further expanded the Sprinter’s blind-spot monitoring system with new radar sensors in the rear bumper. Rear cross-traffic alert is added as part of the technology update, providing automatic braking if the driver fails to react to audible warnings.
Dual rear-wheel variants now add standard tyre pressure monitoring while rain-sensing wipers are available across the range. Crew and passenger models further add passive child occupant detection.
For eSprinter vans we find two motor choices available – 100kW and 150kW (both with 400Nm) – with 56kWh, 81kWh, and 113kWh battery packs offered. Respective range maximums for the trio are listed at 233km, 329km, and 478km, while towing capacity across the board is listed at 2000kg.
DC fast-charge (115kW) times range from 28- to 42 minutes. AC charging (11kW) is also available.
Mechanically, Sprinter diesel models continue unchanged. The OM654-series four-cylinder unit is available in 84kW, 110kW, 125kW and 140kW tunes with six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission options, and the choice of two- or all-wheel drive.
For Vito medium segment vans, the three body styles, two wheelbases and two drive systems remain, along with multiple equipment lines.
Mercedes-Benz says this variety allows Vito to appeal to a wide audience, all of whom will benefit from the newly upgraded technologies, many as applied to the larger Sprinter.
Further, the Vito is now available with an electrically assisted ‘Easy-Pack’ tailgate and multi-beam LED headlights, a new centre console design with USB-C ports and inductive phone charger, and revised styling inside and out.
Keyless entry and ignition is available, alongside new paint colours and wheel designs, and the safety updates (plus six standard airbags) listed for Sprinter. Airmatic suspension remains available.
Importantly a new mild-hybrid petrol engine will be available in the European market from later this year. The M254-series unit delivers 170kW/370Nm and consumes as little as 8.9 litres per 100km.
It joins carryover OM654-series turbo-diesel units available in up to five power levels: 75kW/280Nm, 100kW/330Nm, 120kW/380Nm, 140kW/440Nm, and 174kW/500Nm. Fuel consumption for the unit begins from as low as 6.6 litres per 100km.
Rear-and all-wheel drive options remain available, with all bar the lowest output diesel engine featuring a standard nine-speed automatic transmission.
Internal combustion engine versions join improved eVito (electric) variants with an updated thermal management system said to help extend battery range and longevity by drawing waste heat from the electric motor to pre-condition the battery and help warm the interior.
Both 60kWh and 90kWh battery packs are available, alongside 85kW/362Nm, 150kW/362Nm, and 150kW/362Nm motor outputs. DC charging up to 150kW is available alongside 11kW AC charging. Charge times range from 30 minutes.
Australian specification, delivery timing, and pricing for updated Sprinter and Vito ranges are expected to be announced in the second half of 2024.
