The popular Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van is already a fan-favorite in terms of functional reliability. Reviews of past models talk about how easy they are to maneuver and comfortable to drive. The 2020 model year is bringing a new addition that might make it even better. Mercedes-Benz is introducing a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine to its lineup of Sprinter van configurations. And it could be a game-changer for those who are ready to buy this year.

Who drives the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter?

Unlike more traditional and everyday passenger vehicles, these Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans are wildly popular as reliable work vehicles. The true walk-through cabins are a valuable selling point for these vehicles in addition to countless equipment options. Also, those who need to haul people and gear find the perfect balance between utility function and comfort in a way only Mercedes-Benz can design.

Consumers who consider themselves road warriors rack up thousands of miles with their Sprinters. And even municipalities opt for these vans as part of their emergency and commercial fleets. Those who need these vans choose Mercedes-Benz models because of their upscale and high-tech interiors, which are uncommon in this class.

There are also hundreds of cargo and passenger-designed features, making choosing and building out the van with only what you need easy to do.

What you get with a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van

The announcement of the new diesel engine configuration via Car and Driver details an engine that joins a lineup of already top-performing versions. There will still be an option for the gas-powered 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, as well as the 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel. PRO Connect digital fleet solutions are still part of the equipment suite, as are other features like load-adaptive electronic stability, keyless start, trailer hitch prep packages, and brake hold.

Climb inside and have all the available tech you’d expect from Mercedes-Benz, including dual USB-C charging on the dashboard, an adjustable steering wheel, and MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) touchscreen technology. With utility in mind, the Sprinter vans also come with metal load compartment flooring. Safety-driven at its core, these vans come with all the needed driver aids, including a rearview camera, active brake assist, and Attention Assist.

What the new diesel version brings to the table

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel won’t offer as much horsepower as the V6 diesel. This new diesel version produces 161 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, while the traditional gas engine and V6 diesel engine each offer 190 horses.

But, this new engine configuration, which includes a seven-speed automatic transmission, does offer a sort of ‘sweet spot’ for performance, fuel economy, and affordability. For those who may not need the added horsepower or the all-wheel-drive of the V6, this new four-cylinder diesel is a perfect fit.

Pricing and availability of the diesel van

The latest official reports suggest the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans with the four-cylinder diesel engines will arrive here in the United States around the end of this year. Comparable with the current pricing platforms, the new diesel van pricing will start around $40,265 and, at the higher end, up to $47,445. If you plan to be ready to buy before 2021, you’ll have your choice of overall configurations with this new engine. Choose between a 144-inch or 170-inch wheelbase, standard roof height, or a high roof.

This new diesel engine is going to be a game-changer for many who use these vans as part of their fleets for work. Individuals who need the utility of the Sprinter van but would rather have the flexibility to choose something in between the gas-powered four-cylinder and diesel V6 will now have an option. Mercedes-Benz has just made building out your precisely equipped Sprinter van a little easier.