On The Road
This particular Sprinter is never going to win any prizes for agility, but on the road its minimal flex inspires confidence. Turning corners at speed is fuss-free, and the steering feels precise, if a little over damped. Overall stability for such a large vehicle is excellent.
This is all enhanced by the engine, which provides plenty of low-down torque. It may not be the smoothest of units, but it keeps things moving at a surprisingly brisk pace, even when fully loaded.
To give you some indication of its worth, the M20 hill climb was completed in 2min 46sec, faster than anything we?ve tested in this class, with some lesser engined rivals unable to maintain a constant speed. And this unit is coupled to a user-friendly gearshift that is conveniently mounted on the dashboard and provides a strong, positive action.
Cab Comfort
When it comes to the interior, the big Sprinter does not disappoint. You get the impression with some manufacturers that designing the cabin is a chore that's done as an afterthought once they?ve got the general structure o the vehicle out of the way. But in our book, it's an integral part of the whole setup that should work with the driver and keep him feeling comfortable, therefore improving the standard of driving.
Mercedes follows the latter comment with the Sprinter and this means simple but effective ergonomics and a well laid-out dashboard. Even the grey materials, which are featured throughout, are a fairly attractive shade. A comfy driving seat, a prerequisite in our book, comes with a good range of adjustments and the steering wheel is adjustable for reach.
Our only complaint concerns the pedal layout - in particular, the accelerator. For the taller drivers among us, effective use requires keeping the foot at a rather awkward angle, which is quite a chore on long distances.
