The all-new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: safer and more economical, environmentally friendly and attractive than ever

• Aggressive new exterior design
• Five new assistance systems help drivers avoid accidents
• Noticeably upgraded interior
• Starting from $39,900

TORONTO, ON – Already a recognized benchmark in its class, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is now even more economical, safer, environmentally friendly and attractive. After seven years and global sales totalling around one million vehicles, the new Sprinter is set to further bolster the successful model's leading position. The new standard engine is a 4-cylinder diesel engine with a 7-speed automatic transmission, and the familiar V6 BlueTEC diesel powertrain is also still available as an option. New safety features raise the already exemplary standard of safety to an even higher level. Last but not least, drivers of the new Sprinter can look forward to a further enhanced cockpit with new infotainment features. The new 2014 Sprinter is now on sale in dealerships across Canada and starts from $39,900.

A new Sprinter with striking new looks

Visually, the new Sprinter immediately makes a clear-cut and striking impression. Reminiscent of the current Mercedes-Benz design language, the radiator grille appears more upright and self-assured, lending the new Sprinter a more confident presence. The three radiator louvres are swept back from top to bottom and are perforated. This increases the air flow and clearly establishes a close visual link to a consistent design line from the new vans and trucks from Mercedes-Benz.

The Mercedes-Benz star now rests on a vividly highlighted base. A bevelled surround highlights the signature Mercedes-Benz radiator grille. The new headlamps feature sharper contours and lend the Sprinter a serious yet energetic look. A surround divides the headlamps into individual segments, emphasizing the Sprinter's eyes and providing the entire front end with a substantially more cutting-edge appearance. In the bottom of the housing there is space for the LED light strips of the daytime running lamps, which are available with the optional Bi-Xenon Headlamps.

The new hood is higher, resulting in improved protection for pedestrians. It also features more pronounced contours that lend the Sprinter a look of authority.

The same applies to the new bumper featuring a more pronounced upward sweep under the headlamps and bolder lines. The air inlet in the middle is now set back, providing the Sprinter's face with added dynamism and creating an impression of greater poise on the road. The opening continues to function as a step to help facilitate the cleaning of the windscreen. The purposeful impression created by the new Sprinter is heightened by the detailed attention paid to design on the underside of the bumper, whose appearance is reminiscent of an SUV.

The Sprinter's trademark rear end with its striking, centrally positioned Mercedes-Benz star still remains, but it now features two-compartment tail lights and redesigned badges.  

The new design emphasizes the Sprinter's high quality. This is manifested in the precise joints, the "shingled" headlamp joint overlapping the hood and the precise lines of the frame around the grille, which are also conducive to easy fitting.

BlueTEC engine technology: clean, economical, tried and tested

The BlueTEC diesel engine is as clean as a modern gasoline engine. A Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) injection system reduces nitrogen oxides to harmless nitrogen and water in a downstream catalytic converter.  The BlueTEC engine technology has also been demonstrating its capabilities in Mercedes-Benz trucks and buses for nearly a decade.  

Highly economical BlueTEC four-cylinder engine

In addition to the familiar V6 diesel engine, the MY2014 Sprinter now features a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine as standard equipment. This sophisticated powerplant produces 161 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque at 1,400 - 2,400 rpm, and achieves 7.65 L / 100 km on the highway, 9.98 L / 100 km in the city and a combined fuel economy rating of just 8.9 L / 100 km. With an 83 mm bore and a 99 mm stroke, the engine features an undersquare configuration in the interests of high tractive power. The two overhead camshafts actuate a total of 16 intake and exhaust valves. The camshafts are driven by a combination of gearwheels and a short chain. The common rail injection system operates at a maximum injection pressure of 2,000 bar. The fuel is injected by means of magnetic injectors and seven-hole injection nozzles. Charging takes place at all times via a two-stage exhaust-gas turbocharger system.

Maximum torque is available right from low engine speeds and over a broad engine speed range. The engines attain both a high specific power output and high torque. This downsizing is crucial to low fuel consumption, accompanied by low emissions and optimum weight.

A Lanchester balancer with two counter-rotating shafts, the camshaft drive positioned further to the rear and a two-mass flywheel all contribute to the engine's extremely smooth running characteristics. A combination of exhaust gas recirculation with two-stage cooling and the SCR technology with AdBlue injection for the BlueTEC engines and a particulate filter all ensure clean exhaust emissions.

BlueTEC six-cylinder engine: brilliant technology, high comfort

The optional BlueTEC diesel V6 engine (188 hp, 325 lb-ft.) features a displacement of 3.0 L and is a feat of engine construction. The undersquare engine (bore x stroke: 83 x 92 mm) is based on an aluminium crankcase with a V angle of 72 degrees. Offset rod journals and a balancer shaft result in an extremely smooth-running engine. Its technical refinements include a total of four duplex chain-driven overhead camshafts and common rail injection with piezo injectors and eight spray holes per nozzle.

Accessory equipment fine-tuned for maximum efficiency

The exceptionally low fuel consumption of the new Sprinter is not attributable solely to the engine technology. The engineers at Mercedes-Benz have also fine-tuned the Sprinter's accessory equipment for maximum economy.

Intelligent generator management ensures that the alternator gives priority to charging the battery during braking and on the overrun. During acceleration and cruising, the full engine output is available to the drive system. The electric fuel pump controls the fuel supply for the Sprinter according to requirements, i.e. with a variable delivery rate. Last but not least, the compressor of the air conditioning system incorporates a freewheel, so that it is only active when the air conditioning is on.

Seven-speed automatic transmission for the 4-cylinder

The 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with torque converter – the only 7-speed automatic transmission offered in a van anywhere in the world – is refined for maximum fuel economy. The improved damping technology results in a lower tendency to generate noise and hum. The reduced slip on the lockup clutch gives a more direct connection to the accelerator pedal and therefore provides greater agility.

The development engineers have additionally adapted the automatic transmission's shift points precisely to the engine characteristics, also optimizing the oil's heat-up behaviour in the cold running phase in this respect, along with the torque converter's hydraulic circuit. This results in faster heating-up of the oil, therefore minimizing frictional losses after cold starting.

Rear axle with reduced friction for greater efficiency

The developers have tweaked all the available points of detail in order to achieve maximum efficiency for the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. A key example here is the driven rear axle. In the interests of low-friction and economical running, modifications have been undertaken here right down to the microgeometry of the differential's tooth flanks, the precision of installation has been further improved and the oil flow has been optimized to reduce churning loss while the axle is running. These measures have been applied to all axle variants.

To minimize friction, a fuel-efficient engine oil developed specifically for vans, passenger cars and heavy-duty commercial vehicles is used. Particularly easy-running ball bearings are another new feature. At the same time, the axis has also undergone extensive testing.

Other Fuel-Efficient Measures

The generator management system has been optimized for even greater efficiency. The same applies to the further enhanced fuel pump, which controls the supply pressure and flow rate according to the prevailing requirements. The ECO power steering pump is only activated when power assistance is actually required.

The new Sprinter: an excellent track record right from the word go

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has consistently set the benchmark in Canada by offering the lowest total cost of ownership in its class, and right from its market launch, the new Sprinter has an excellent track record to its name. It has demonstrated its reliability in comprehensive trials, from endurance tests at top speed to extreme short-distance tests in Scandinavia at icy temperatures with a high proportion of idling and a large number of stops. In all, the new Sprinter has covered around eight million kilometres in endurance tests, including tough deployment by customers in real-life traffic. These operations spanned a highly diverse spectrum of driving profiles, including service with a company which covers up to 280,000 km annually, using alternating drivers in a relay system.

Five new advanced driver assistance systems help to avoid accidents

A key focus in developing the new Sprinter was on a whole range of new assistance systems – including world premieres in the van segment. New features to be premiered with the new Sprinter are Crosswind Assist, Collision Prevention Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Highbeam Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. This array of new assistance systems underscores Mercedes-Benz Vans' pioneering role in safety technology and as a driving force behind innovative developments.

The additional new assistance systems spawn a crucial benefit: the electronic aids will help to prevent many accidents. The developers at Mercedes-Benz are convinced that this new generation of assistance systems in the van segment will have an extremely positive impact on accident statistics.

World premiere: Crosswind Assist for vans

The new Sprinter is the first van in the world to feature Crosswind Assist – a milestone in safety technology. This ground-breaking system will be available in the Canadian market for the 2015 model year, and virtually fully compensates for the effects of gusts of wind on the vehicle, within the bounds of physical possibilities. The need for countersteering in response to sudden gusts is markedly reduced, relieving the strain on the driver. Crosswind Assist is based on the standard-fit Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) and is activated at speeds of 80 km/h and over. 

Braking intervention counteracts drifting

Crosswind Assist detects forces acting on the vehicle as a result of crosswind and gusts by reference to the data supplied by the sensors for yaw rate and lateral acceleration which form part of the standard-fit ADAPTIVE ESP® system. In response to such effects, the assistance system specifically brakes individual wheels on the side facing towards the wind. This leads to a steering effect and prevents the vehicle from drifting dangerously off course as a result of yawing or rotary movement.

Crosswind Assist helps the driver to remain on course in the event of sudden crosswind – e.g. on bridges or when overtaking trucks. The influence of the wind is noticeably reduced.

The sensors of the ADAPTIVE ESP® system are able to identify the strength of constant crosswind as well as sudden gusts and additionally record the angle of attack. The reaction by Crosswind Assist also accords due consideration to the vehicle's speed, vehicle load, load position and the driver's steering behaviour. If the driver carries out manual countersteering, Crosswind Assist will automatically reduce its level of intervention accordingly.

The assistance system is tailored to the individual Sprinter model and its surface area. An indicator lamp informs the driver of intervention by the assist function, thereby also keeping him or her informed about the driving situation. Crosswind Assist will be available in the Canadian market beginning in the 2015 model year.

Collision Prevention Assist: warns the driver of impending collisions

Failure to maintain the necessary distance from other vehicles is one of the most dangerous factors relating to accidents on the road. Analyses carried out by the accident research team at Mercedes-Benz have revealed that a substantial proportion of all rear-end collisions can be avoided or their severity at least reduced substantially with the aid of radar-based assistance systems.

This is where the optionally available Collision Prevention Assist system comes into play – another first in this class. Collision Prevention Assist is designed to help prevent serious rear-end collisions and comprises the proximity warning function and adaptive Brake Assist. It warns the driver when the distance from the vehicle ahead is too small and, at a further escalation level, when there is an acute danger of collision.

The radar-based proximity warning assistant helps the driver to maintain an appropriate safe distance from the vehicle in front. A radar sensor in the front bumper continuously measures the distance from the vehicle ahead in the same lane and the relative speeds of the two vehicles. The proximity warning assistant calculates the necessary safe distance on the basis of this information. Collision Prevention Assist is operational from a speed of 30 km/h.

Static proximity warning function

A visual warning (warning lamp in the instrument cluster) is triggered as soon as a vehicle ahead is detected and the distance to the vehicle ahead drops below a specific limit, indicating that the distance is not safe.

Dynamic proximity warning function

The dynamic proximity warning function is triggered as soon as the driver's vehicle approaches the detected vehicle ahead with a high difference in speed. In this case, both a visual and an acoustic warning is given. Both warnings give the driver an opportunity to carry out emergency braking or an evasive manoeuvre. The driver can switch off this assistance function as necessary.

Brake Assist pro: precise emergency braking when required

Similar to ADAPTIVE ESP®, this function cannot be switched off by the driver. It is continuously active in the background, monitoring the current operating conditions and the current driving situation. Support from adaptive Brake Assist is triggered after the dynamic proximity warning when the distance between the Sprinter and the vehicle ahead closes too rapidly and the driver initiates panic braking.

Adaptive Brake Assist is able to support emergency braking according to the relative speed/relative acceleration and the distance from the identified object. When the driver fails to apply sufficient brake power, Adaptive Brake Assist provides additional force to generate enough deceleration to help avoid an accident. This also gives the traffic behind the longest possible response time to avoid a rear-end collision.

The driver can override the intervention by adaptive Brake Assist at any time, i.e. if the driver initiates harder braking than the system identifies as necessary, the driver's action will take priority.

Conversely, intervention will be stopped if the driver carries out an evasive manoeuvre, takes his foot off the brake pedal or presses the accelerator pedal.

Blind Spot Assist: safe lane changing

Lane-changing in urban traffic, passing on the highway – all of these situations require drivers to make safety-critical decisions in a matter of seconds. The Sprinter possesses large exterior mirrors with a wide field of vision. The optional new Blind Spot Assist feature – another first for the van segment – additionally helps the driver by warning them of other vehicles in the blind spot during lane changing.

The new Blind Spot Assist function is operational from a speed of approximately 30 km/h. It is based on a total of four close-range radar sensors. These are installed on the right and left behind the side rub strips in the area of the B-pillar and the rear corner pillar and cover the area of the neighbouring lanes. When the sensors identify a car or motorcycle in the blind spot while the vehicle is on the move, a red warning signal appears in the exterior mirror on the respective side. When the assistance system detects that the driver has activated the indicator and intends to change lanes despite the warning, he receives an additional warning in the form of an acoustic signal and the red warning symbol begins to flash. This assistance function can be deactivated by the driver.

Lane Keeping Assist: keeping the vehicle on course

Even more dangerous than careless lane changing is involuntary lane changing – when the driver is distracted or inattentive, for example. The optional Lane Keeping Assist function is now available to provide a timely warning.

Lane Keeping Assist incorporates sophisticated technology. A camera behind the windscreen monitors the road ahead. An integrated electronic control unit measures the recorded data continuously, identifying the road surface and markings by reference to differences in contrast. If the van threatens to cross the side marking without the indicator having been activated or without parallel changes to the accelerator or brake pedal position, the control unit will conclude that the vehicle is leaving its lane unintentionally and will warn the driver with an acoustic signal.

Lane Keeping Assist is active from a speed of 60 km/h and responds not only to white lines on the road but also to yellow markings at construction sites. The driver can switch this assist system off as necessary – when driving along narrow and winding country roads, for example. Conversely, Lane Keeping Assist helps the driver to stay on course when there is little room for manoeuvre – at highway construction sites, for example.

Highbeam Assist: optimum illumination of the road ahead

The best possible visibility is crucial to safe driving. Driving in the dark is particularly demanding in this respect. With this in mind, the Sprinter comes with large and powerful headlamps. All models are optionally available with particularly powerful bi-xenon headlamps.

The new Highbeam Assist feature is a first in the Sprinter's class. It guarantees optimum illumination of the road by switching high beams on or off according to the given situation. The course of the road, pedestrians or dangerous spots are now recognizable even earlier and more reliably. At the same time, Highbeam Assist also reduces the possibility of oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead being blinded.

The system is based on a camera on the inside of the front windscreen which observes the traffic situation in front of the vehicle. When the camera detects two-track vehicles or motorcycles travelling towards or ahead of the driver's vehicle, the high beam is automatically dipped to the low beam. Highbeam Assist is able to distinguish between moving and stationary objects. When the road is clear once again, the assistance system switches back to the high beam. The camera system also responds to road lighting by deactivating the high beam automatically – when passing through built-up areas, for example. Highbeam Assist operates at vehicle speeds above 35 km/h. It will be available for both halogen and bi-xenon headlamps.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: safety on board as standard

Safety is always standard on every vehicle from Mercedes-Benz. In the case of the Sprinter, for example, this means a safe and predictable chassis, precise steering and highly effective, fade-resistant disc brakes on all wheels. A bulb failure indicator warns of any defective lights and a seat belt reminder function prompts the driver to buckle up at the beginning of his or her trip.

The latest-generation ADAPTIVE ESP® already combines a diverse array of functions. The vehicle dynamics control system includes:  

• anti-lock brake system (ABS)
• acceleration slip regulation (ASR)
• electronic brake force distribution (EBD)
• hydraulic Brake Assist (BAS)
• Load Adaptive Control (LAC) load-dependent control system,
• Roll Over Mitigation roll-over protection and Roll Movement Intervention (ROM/RMI)
• Enhanced Understeering Control system (EUC)
• automatic brake disc drying system (Brake Disc Wiping) when driving in the rain
• anticipatory preparation of the brake pads in critical driving situations (ElecTRONIC Brake Prefill)

If the buyer of a Sprinter selects a trailer coupling or the corresponding preinstallation option for this item, the Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) system also comes as standard.

If an accident is unavoidable, despite the Sprinter's high level of active safety, the occupants will benefit from the yielding and energy-absorbing body structure. A height-adjustable three-point seat belt with belt tensioner and belt force limiter, two-way head restraints and a front airbag are all there to keep the driver safe.

Optional extras ensure safety tailored to individual needs

Beyond the extensive scope of standard equipment, additional safety options are available to enable customers to adapt their Sprinters to their individual operational requirements. Bi-xenon headlamps, fog lights, a headlamp cleaning system and a heated windscreen provide further improved visibility.

A rearview camera, backup warning system and the PARKTRONIC system facilitate manoeuvring, while the Start-off Assist system helps when starting on uphill slopes. The rain sensor with Headlamp Assist relieves the driver of the task of switching the appropriate systems on and off. A front passenger airbag, windowbags and thorax bags enhance passive safety.

All panel vans come with optional full-width partition walls which completely separate the load compartment from the driver/passenger area. Numerous robust lashing eyelets secure the cargo, optionally bolstered by rail systems in the floor, at the level of the belt rail and below the roof frame.

Key focus: driver-fitness safety

Equally as important as the safety equipment on board is driver-fitness safety. A well-rested and relaxed driver is better able to manage or even avoid dangerous situations. The workplace behind the steering wheel is consequently a central focus in the development of a Mercedes-Benz. As a result, every Mercedes-Benz van features a spacious driver's cab and comfortable seats with good lateral support and height adjustment for the driver. The seat position is well chosen in relation to the steering wheel, pedals and the cockpit as a whole.

Instruments are clearly arranged and the buttons, switches and control units are always positioned within easy reach.

The mirror housings are aerodynamically optimized to reduce build-up of dirt. High levels of ride comfort and low background noise combine with effective heating and ventilation to make even the longest trips a pleasure. Numerous well-conceived storage facilities accommodate everyday items. Precision steering and a comparatively small turning circle round out the range of features for maximum safety and relaxed driving.

Noticeably upgraded interior

Improving on the Sprinter's indisputably high-quality and practical cockpit is no easy matter. The development engineers have nevertheless risen to the challenge. The foam core in the seat is firmer, a wool fleece lining and a new seat cover fabric provide for enhanced breathability. The cover is now harder-wearing and features a new design.

The new steering wheel with a thick rim offering an excellent grip provides an improved sense of touch when steering. The optional multifunction steering wheel with trip computer features attractive chrome clasps on the steering wheel spokes and newly designed function keys. The fresh air vents are embellished with chrome applications. The shift lever now sports a chrome ring and a high-gloss badge.

New radio generation, Becker MAP PILOT navigation system

State-of-the-art consumer electronics and navigation equipment are acquiring ever increasing importance in vans, too. The new standard headunit features a 5.8-inch color display and Bluetooth connectivity with telephone keypad and phone book, an SD card slot, a USB 2.0 interface and an AUX input in the cockpit. When the optional backup camera is installed, the image from this camera is shown on the display. Guide lines are now provided on the display, to further facilitate maneuvering.  A new option is the Becker MAP PILOT navigation unit. This is a fully integrated navigation module with an intuitive user interface.

The Becker MAP PILOT box is integrated inconspicuously in the new Sprinter's glove compartment. The map data for the customer's region is factory-installed. The box can be removed and incorporates a USB port, enabling the navigation module to be customized and updated online via a computer. A pre-installation kit for the Becker MAP PILOT is also available, e.g. for fleets wishing to make alternate use of vehicles with only one navigation unit.

The new 2014 Sprinter: a one-stop solution

Versatility is a hallmark of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Two diesel engines and a host of body, weight and rear axle variants add up to several thousand variants.

The vast scope of customization options for the Sprinter extends right down to the finer points of detail - the list of optional extras comprises several hundred items. Logically compiled equipment packages make it easier to identify the required options.

About Mercedes-Benz Canada

Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of the three brands within the Mercedes-Benz Group in Canada: Mercedes-Benz, AMG and smart. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. employs approximately 1,450 people in 22 locations across Canada.  Through a nationwide network of 13 Mercedes-Benz owned retail operations and 40 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 35,503 vehicles in 2012, the best year ever reported for Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.

For more information, please contact:

Further information from Mercedes-Benz is available on the internet at:

www.media.mercedes-benz.ca