( I wonder why the CDI only goes to 184 HP? )
Daily News - 11/23/2005 The new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: even more versatile, safe and more comfortable Stuttgart, 11/23/2005 - For ten years now the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has led the way in what has long been known as the "Sprinter class" in Europe. With some 1.3 million units sold, the Sprinter's record as the market leader for vans with gross vehicle weights of around 3.5 t speaks for itself. A new Sprinter is due for launch in the spring of next year and will once again set the benchmark. Its emotive design represents a flawless blend of form and function and whets the appetite for the innovative and practical technology under the surface. With three wheelbases, four body lengths ranging from 5243 mm to 7343 mm, three roof heights and a wealth of body options, the new Sprinter is even more flexible than its predecessor. The new range includes variants between 3.0 and 5.0 t gross vehicle weight and, as a panel van with a load capacity of 7 to 17 m=B3 for example, it meets almost every conceivable requirement. The same is true of the engine variants. The powerful, cutting-edge four and six-cylinder CDI diesel engines with outputs ranging from 65 kW (88 hp) to 135 kW (184 hp) respond to every need. All of the Euro
4/EU 4 diesel engines are fitted with a particulate filter. The V6 petrol powerplant, meanwhile, delivers exceptional levels of comfort and effortless performance with its output of 190 kW (258 hp). Among the many innovations of the new Sprinter are a variant with 4.6 t gross vehicle weight and space-saving Super-Single tyres for the rear wheels. The already exemplary safety features of the outgoing Sprinter have been improved on still further in the new model. Various different bodyshell measures have taken the vehicle's crash responses to a whole new level. Added to which, thorax airbags are now also available in addition to the driver's and front passenger airbags and windowbags fitted in its predecessor. Another highlight is the standard addition on all models of ADAPTIVE ESP=AE - the latest generation of the Electronic Stability Program (ESP=AE). Its extended functionality allows this system to, among other things, measure the weight of the vehicle's load, calculate the centre of gravity and adapt its responses precisely according to these factors. The Sprinter's chassis is even more agile than before and now offers even greater active safety. Included as standard on all models are 16-inch wheels with a highly effective and durable braking system, including disc brakes all round, the anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake force distribution and hydraulic Brake Assist (BAS). Safety is further enhanced by the optional bi-xenon headlamps with the additional Add-Light System and cornering light function. The launch of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will begin at the end of March 2006. The new van will be produced at the plants in D=FCsseldorf (panel van and crewbus) and Ludwigsfelde near Berlin (pickups and chassis incl. crewcabs). .