Mercedes Benz Vans has launched the latest Sprinter variant to Australia with the introduction of the 12-seater minibus version of the popular working van
Mercedes is claiming the new Sprinter Transfer is more comfortable, more versatile and safer than ever before and says the mini bus marries form and function, benefiting passengers and businesses from schools to aged care or crew buses to efficient airport transfers.
The new Sprinter Transfer builds on the standards set by its predecessors, and Merecedes says it progresses further with new equipment features. The new Sprinter Transfer features keyless start, while it also has a new, optimised roof mounted air conditioning systems to ensure pleasant interior temperatures with the ability to regulate the passenger compartment separately.
New passenger seating now has reclinable backrests and foldable armrests, and seating rows are now equipped with USB charging sockets and stowage space for smartphones. Access to and from the rear passenger compartment is easy thanks to the electric sliding rear door and step according to Benz.
The Transfer is powered by the same 2.1 litre four cylinder turbo diesel as the Sprinter van and is available in two output levels with either the 414 with 105 kW of power and 330Nm of torque, or the 416 with 120 kW of power and 360Nm. Both engine variants are mated with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic.
The Sprinter Transfer as would be expected with a Benz vehicle comes with an array of safety features that are common in modern passenger cars but not necessarily in vans. The standard equipment includes Active Brake Assist, Blind Spot Assist, reversing camera, Lane Keeping Assist, Attention Assist and front and window airbags for driver and co-driver. Crosswind Assist is also as standard, as it makes the passenger journey considerably safer, especially at higher speeds on freeways.
There is also a range of optional safety and assistance systems now available including radar-based adaptive cruise control, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Parking Package with 360 degree camera. .
The Mercedes MBUX multimedia system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) fearturing a 7” HD display comes as standard with an optional 10.25” alternative head unit. The system is controlled either via the touch-capable steering wheel controls, via the touchscreen or via a voice control system.
The system features full smartphone integration via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, while satellite navigation is optional with the standard 7” head unit and included as part of the optional 10.25” alternative. Benzsyas that when on board it operates by keywords such as “Hey Mercedes”, and registers turns of phrase in everyday speech.
The company claims that All Sprinter variants now have service intervals up to a maximum of 40 000 kilometres or two years, meaning low maintenance costs while it comes with a comprehensive warranty of five years or 250 000kms, along with standard 24/7 Roadside Assist at no extra cost during the warranty period..
Mercedes says the 416 Sprinter Transfer is aimed at business customers who need functionality combined with good looks, and more standard features than the 414. The 416 features a chrome grill, alloy wheels, fogs lamps, high performance headlamps and partial LED tail lights, along with comfort overhead control panel, electric rear sliding door, light and rain sensors and of course the more powerful 120kW engine.
The Sprinter Transfer is sure to spice up the mini bus market and take the fight up to Renault’s Master, Toyota’s HiAce Commuter, VW’s Crafter and the other market competitors. We will have a road test for you as soon as we can get hold of a new Transfer.
