Build quality is, therefore, far better than anything else in this class and actually superior to most other Dodge vehicles. With the exception of the Dodge logo on its steering wheel, the Sprinter's interior is pretty much identical to the Mercedes-Benz version sold elsewhere in the world. For the time being, however, commercial customers and gigantic families should give this automotive alimony a chance. With Chrysler and Mercedes no longer together, it's unknown how long the Benz-sourced and German-built Sprinter will wear its Dodge badge. That price disparity is probably erased for those who would otherwise rely on an aftermarket outfitter to create a passenger shuttle. Despite being a little underpowered and pricey compared to V8-equipped GM and Ford vans, the Sprinter's multiple large body styles and quality construction make it an excellent choice in this segment. Overall, though, we think the 2008 Dodge Sprinter should be an appealing choice for many full-size van buyers. The Sprinter tops out at 5,000 pounds, while its competitors can lug upwards of 10,000. Neither engine provides the power of several GM and Ford power plants, nor are they capable of towing the same loads. An optional gasoline V6 (a $2,000 credit option) is preferable for more highway-going drivers or those who struggle to find a diesel pump. The diesel provides excellent fuel economy and ample torque for urban and suburban uses. Those vans, therefore, require an aftermarket conversion if they are to be used as people-carrying shuttles.Ī choice of two engines are available, with a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 standard. To accomplish the same task, Econoline and Express/Savana passengers would have to be no taller than 4-foot-4. The high roof option provides a cavernous 76.4 inches of interior height, allowing a 6-foot-3-inch person to walk around upright. The Sprinter is also the only full-size van to offer a choice of factory roof heights. Also, Mercedes says it engineered the stability control system to compensate for the taller center of gravity and shifting cargo loads.Ī further examination of the Sprinter's dimensions reveals a standard wheelbase even longer than the Econoline's extended-wheelbase model, and at 273 inches, the largest Dodge Sprinter is almost 2.5 feet longer than the biggest GM van. Yet it's actually just as wide as the GM and Ford models, but handles more like a midsize SUV than a plumber's van. Its sloping front end, long wheelbases and two tall body styles give the impression that a strong breeze could make it tip over like a boozed-up co-ed. It doesn't take long to realize how different the Sprinter is - a mere glance will suffice. The 2008 Dodge Sprinter passenger van's clear advantages are in the realms of cargo capacity, passenger space and comfort, available body configurations, and driving dynamics. While the Ford and GM competition have made continual updates over the years, the Sprinter was completely redesigned last year and represents a significant evolutionary step thanks to its Mercedes engineering and unique body styles. ![]() Sure, a huge people-carrying shuttle may not seem like a prize worth coveting, but the Sprinter represents the lone modern offering in a segment that ceased any engineering innovation during the Nixon administration. ![]() The union between Mercedes and Chrysler ended up being an unhappy marriage that recently ended in divorce, but Dodge at least got a decent chunk of alimony in the form of its 2008 Sprinter passenger van.
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