New Sprinter revealed

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the facelifted Sprinter which goes on sale here in June. As well as a new-look front end with a more upright grille, the revised model gets new safety system and engines that meet Euro VI standards with the most economical version able to average a claimed 44.4mpg.

The engine range remains the same with the 2.2-litre CDI the mainstay of the range. Entry-level models get 95PS but the most popular model will continue to be the 130PS version plus there's the top 3.0-litre engine with 190PS. All the engines have been revised so now have better fuel economy and are less noisy. The standard gearbox remains the six-speed manual or there's the optional 7G-Tronic Plus automatic.

Alongside the CDI diesels, the Sprinter is also available with a Euro VI compliant supercharged 1.8-litre four-cylinder natural gas engine with 156PS. Other changes include longer service intervals which have been extended to 37,000 miles.

The Sprinter is already renowned as one of the best handling vans on the market and Mercedes-Benz has worked to improve this further by lowering of the chassis. This has subsequently improved the van’s drag and makes it easier to load and unload.

As well as the new look, there are changes inside with new upholstery and seat coverings plus a thicker steering wheel and new air vents. The gear lever has been redesigned and there's a new generation radio that includes Bluetoothand a Becker Map Pilot navigation system.

There are also five new safety systems in the new Sprinter including a new Crosswind Assist system which comes as standard. A Collision Prevention Assist system and Blind Spot Assist are available as optional extras while the other new features are Highbeam Assist and Lane Keeping Assist.