Dodge Sprinter is a rear-drive utility van that replaced the Dodge Ram Wagon in 2003. Sprinter is based on van sold in Europe as a Mercedes-Benz and is intended for commercial use–though both cargo and passenger models are offered in the US. All have two front doors, a sliding side door on the passenger side, and swing-out rear doors. Two models are offered, a 2500 and 3500.
The main difference between the two models is the payload rating. Each is available in standard or high roof form and comes in three wheelbases: 118, 140, and 158 inches. The high roof adds 9 inches of interior room via a taller roof. The sole engine is a 2.7-liter 5-cylinder turbodiesel. It mates to a 5-speed automatic transmission. Standard safety equipment includes dual front airbags and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. An antiskid system is standard on 2500 models. Cargo models seat two on front buckets. Passenger models have room for up to ten on rear bench seats. Available optional equipment includes a heated windshield, manual sunroof, and a rear back-up alarm.
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The Euro-flavored Sprinter trumps traditional large passenger vans with greater headroom and a less gluttonous appetite for fuel. Sprinter prices start higher than domestic vans, but the big Dodge’s passenger-friendly ways and potentially lower operating costs make it a strong value.
Sprinter’s maximum payload capacities range from 2846 lb on 2500 models to 4824 lb on 3500 models. Regardless of model, towing capacity is 5000 lb.
