Mercedes Sprinter II - a new chapter in the brand's history

The first Sprinter IIs were produced in 2006 as a pre-series for the RAI Amsterdam exhibition. The vans were to have a permissible gross vehicle weight in the range of 3-5 tonnes. Already a few months before the premiere there was information that the 2nd generation Sprinter would be presented together with the VAG concern's twin car, the Volkswagen Crafter. Each of the companies achieved a certain benefit in this way. Volkswagen was able to benefit from Mercedes production facilities and experience, while Mercedes received additional funding and distribution routes for its vehicles. The main designer of the body, especially the front of the van, is Laurent Boulay. His task was to create an elegant, streamlined shape that could contribute to reducing the drag coefficient. This was achieved while increasing the other dimensions - length, height, width and load capacity. Among the body types, there was an extended option with the longest wheelbase.

Equipment of the 2006 Sprinter

In addition to improved loading characteristics, the safety systems were also significantly improved. Solutions that systematically appeared in the optional equipment of the first generation, in the Sprinter II have already become standard. Since 2006, Mercedes vans have been equipped with ESP Z ABS, ASR, BAS, MSR and many other systems. The old, traditional ESP has been replaced by an intelligent system that examines the van's centre of gravity in real time. Among the new features were wide sliding doors to the cargo area, a higher roof position. A very interesting move was also the introduction of the OM 642 engine, a 3-litre V6. The latest Mercedes Sprinters are still available with V6 engines, however this is a completely new generation of drive units. A new 6-speed gearbox has been made available to drivers. Bi-xenon headlights with cornering light function were introduced to the range of optional equipment. The Sprinter II opened a completely new chapter in the history of vans - in terms of both design and technology. PARKTRONIC, adaptive ESP, and the air curtain are just a few of the new features. The location of the battery has also been changed. It has been moved to the floor, under the driver's feet, so as not to expose it to damage in the event of a road collision. The 4-drive versions were equipped with an off-road reducer, although it was mainly used in special vehicles, created in the framework of tenders.

Mercedes Sprinter 2006 Benz

The first engine changes included the basic 2.2CDI unit. The old 82 hp engine was replaced by an 88 hp engine used in the Mercedes Vito. More powerful units were also to be found, so a 150-hp 2.2 CDI engine was introduced, which offered the best compromise between weight, fuel consumption and power for a delivery van. The most powerful option for the Sprinter II was a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine offering as much as 258 hp. Changes came in 2009 with the OM 651 DE22LA engines. They were smaller by 6 cm³ but heavier by 12 kilograms. All thanks to additional shafts. The most powerful diesel engine was modified to 163 hp. The engine revolution was a side effect of the new Euro 5 emission standards, working in conjunction with the DPF.

History comes full circle - Sprinter 2013 facelift

Mercedes-Benz decided to carry out a facelift of the Sprinter in 2013. The update of the flagship model was aimed at implementing new technologies and equipment, while refreshing the front end of the vehicle. The front bumper, headlights and radiator grille were changed. The drivers were given a Becker audio system and seats with thicker upholstery. Safety systems were also developed for the facelifted Mercedes-Benz Sprinter II, as was the case with the new passenger car. The vehicle was equipped with collision avoidance systems, side impact mitigation and a blind spot warning system. The introduction of further environmental standards (Euro 6) has forced the manufacturer to create ecological engines cooperating with AdBlue liquid.