Skip advert
Advertisement

Van of the Year 2018: Mercedes Sprinter

The Mercedes Sprinter is the 2018 Auto Express Van of the Year, with the Ford Transit Custom and Volkswagen Crafter commended

For the all-new Mercedes Sprinter, it’s a case of evolution and revolution rolled into one. The evolution comes with the smoother lines outside, improved payload volumes, better fuel economy, lower emissions and a smarter interior that’s inspired by Mercedes’ passenger cars.

Higher-spec models offer car-like features such as improved plastics, extra fabric trim and a multifunction steering wheel similar to that in the latest A and C-Class, and plush seats are designed to deliver a more comfortable work environment.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The revolution starts in the cab; the Sprinter is the second Mercedes, after the A-Class hatch, to get the MBUX voice-controlled infotainment system. Simply say ‘Hey Mercedes’, and the set-up kicks into life to provide navigation information, change radio stations and offer petrol price data via a live services subscription.

Of more importance to van users and fleet managers is the standard fitment of Mercedes PRO Connect to every Sprinter that leaves the factory. This online technology means fleet managers can monitor their vans in real time, allowing them to plan logistics, arrange for van servicing and monitor driver behaviour with an eye on keeping fleet running costs in check.

The other big change is the arrival of front-wheel drive alongside the rear-drive and 4x4 variants. The front-drive model benefits from an extra 50kg of payload, plus the load floor is 80mm lower, boosting accessibility over the rear-drive variant. Add three roof heights and three body lengths for the panel van, plus chassis cab and crew cab variants, VIP shuttle bus versions and camper-ready tractor head units, and the new Sprinter has all bases covered in the large van sector. 

Our choice 

Mercedes Sprinter 314 CDI L2 H1 (£30,405 excl VAT)

With over 1,700 variants, there will be a Sprinter to suit most needs. But the standard-length, high-roof panel van in 141bhp front-wheel-drive guise offers a fine mix of payload capacity and efficiency with a lower load floor than the rear-drive version.

Commended 

Ford Transit Custom

New 2017 Ford Transit Custom front tracking

A mid-life facelift has kept the Transit Custom in contention. The looks take cues from Ford’s cars, and it has SYNC 3 infotainment. Options include two body lengths and two roof heights, and the Double Cab Van is an interesting alternative to an MPV.

Volkswagen Crafter

Volkswagen Crafter - front

The Crafter is proof that you can still have fun driving a working vehicle. VW has saved weight in its construction, and it’s as nimble as vans from the class below. This is a fringe benefit of a large van, and with a large payload, three body lengths and front, rear and four-wheel-drive options, it’s a great choice.

Auto Express New Car Awards 2018

For complete, in-depth coverage of the 2018 New Car Awards, buy your collector's edition copy of the Auto Express magazine now or click here to subscribe...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Continue Reading
Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Best large panel vans 2024
Best large panel vans - March 24 update
Best cars & vans

Best large panel vans 2024

Pick the right large panel van, and you'll have a machine that can do all sorts of jobs. We name our favourites
6 Mar 2024
Best electric vans 2024
Best electric vans - header image
Best cars & vans

Best electric vans 2024

We reveal the best electric vans to buy or lease in the UK right now
24 Jan 2024

Most Popular

Road tax set to rise in April: here’s how much more you’ll pay
Road tax documentation
News

Road tax set to rise in April: here’s how much more you’ll pay

Drivers with newer cars will now pay £10 more per year, although the biggest gas guzzlers fare even worse
28 Mar 2024
Posh new trim level for Dacia Sandero while the Sandero Stepway gets more power
Dacia Sandero - front
News

Posh new trim level for Dacia Sandero while the Sandero Stepway gets more power

Both the Sandero and Sandero Stepway ranges have been tweaked, gaining more safety features to meet the latest regulations
26 Mar 2024
Car Deal of the Day: classy Audi A4 Avant estate plus 8,000 miles per year for less than £300 a month
Audi A4 Avant driving on UK roads
News

Car Deal of the Day: classy Audi A4 Avant estate plus 8,000 miles per year for less than £300 a month

Our Deal of the Day for 27 March is for those who want a big trunk for all their junk
27 Mar 2024