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The 2006
Dodge Sprinter Wagon is a 3-door, up to 10-passenger full size van,
available in 5 trims, ranging from the 2500 High Ceiling 118-in. WB to the
2500 Super High Ceiling 158-in. WB.       
Dodge Sprinter ReviewsWitness the revolution of the full-size van industry. Plagued with a platform that dates back more than 30 years, Dodge has been in desperate need of a fresh full-size van. By tapping into the resources of parent DaimlerChrysler, Dodge has inherited a winner by fastening its signature grille to the successful Mercedes-Benz-designed Sprinter.
The Dodge Sprinter was initially introduced to the U.S. market in limited quantities as a Freightliner in 2002, and sold only to commercial businesses. Why the Freightliner badge? DaimlerChrysler felt consumers would feel like they were being overcharged for deliveries if their packages were brought to them in a Mercedes van. Since then Dodge has taken over the sales and service duties, and is offering the Sprinter van just as readily as the previous Ram Van. Available in cargo and passenger versions, a comprehensive selection of configurations makes it easy to meet specific needs.
All Dodge Sprinter vans are powered by a 2.7-liter, five-cylinder turbodiesel engine rated for 154 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy comes in around 27 mpg, easily surpassing the mileage of any other full-size van. Such generous fuel economy numbers can quickly translate into vast savings for families and business owners. Unfortunately, the engine's small displacement and output prevents the Sprinter from measuring up in one all-important area: towing and hauling ability. Dodge's van has a maximum towing capacity of just 5,000 pounds, while V8-powered competitors like the Chevrolet Express and Ford Econoline can tow anywhere between 6,000 and 10,000 pounds.
Clearly, the Dodge Sprinter is not the way to go if your family regularly tows a large camper. Body styling is rather unconventional. Not much flash can be expected of such a boxy van, however. Function certainly follows form, as the upright styling results in a versatile cargo space. The result is near-flat interior sidewalls and class-leading flexibility. Passenger versions enjoy plenty of people space with the available high-roof styles, making the Sprinter an ideal passenger shuttle. Indeed, don't be surprised to see Sprinters gradually taking over shuttle duties at your favorite airports and hotels. The full-size van market is rather traditional, offering boxy designs on platforms that originated many decades ago. The 2005 Dodge Sprinter van pretty much shatters the big-van conventions with its revolutionary focus on passenger comfort and flexibility.
2005 Dodge Sprinter Specifications Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options: Though the Dodge Sprinter offers only one trim level, a dizzying array of body configurations allows the buyer to select a van that meets specific needs -- from hauling diverse cargo to the transportation of passengers as an airport shuttle vehicle. Short-wheelbase versions measure 118 inches, intermediate 140 inches and long versions 158 inches. The selection, however, is not merely limited to wheelbase. Two different roof heights are offered, with the tall version allowing enough room for an average person to stand up inside the cargo area. Depending on the configuration you select, the Sprinter seats eight or 10 passengers. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, cloth upholstery, power-heated mirrors and a cassette stereo. Among the available options are power windows and locks, cruise control, a rear air conditioner, upgraded seats, a CD player, a heated windshield, rain-sensing wipers and an alarm system.
For more Performance data, see our Dodge Sprinter Specifications page. Powertrains and Performance: A Mercedes-Benz 2.7-liter turbodiesel engine powers all Dodge Sprinter vans. Horsepower may seem lacking at 154, but 243 pound-feet of torque assures more than adequate around-town thrust. A five-speed automatic transmission is also standard. Extended maintenance intervals and an estimated average 27 mpg help reduce overall operating expenses. Payload capacities up to 3,011 pounds are available. Towing capacity maxes out at 5,000 pounds.
Safety: The Dodge Sprinter comes with standard four-wheel antilock disc brakes, along with traction and stability control. The front seatbelts are equipped with pre-tensioners, and head restraints are provided in all seating positions. Standard electronic stability control provides a welcome degree of safety on a vehicle with such a high center of gravity.
Interior Design and Special Features: Though far from luxurious, interior accommodations are certainly adequate. Fit and finish is up to typical Mercedes-Benz standards. Multiple seat adjustments ensure decent comfort, and overall ergonomics give the impression of driving a regular passenger car instead of a hulking truck. Rubber flooring is standard, as is a handy paper holder/clip and pen holder. Storage cubbies abound, but don't expect to put a super-mega-size drink in any of the cupholders. Photos may make the Dodge Sprinter look diminutive, but do not be deceived -- it offers up to 473 cubic feet of interior storage depending on wheelbase and roof height. The Ford E-350 Extended Van offers a comparatively paltry 308 cubic feet.
Driving Impressions: The Dodge Sprinter van boasts many unique features -- from its efficient diesel engine to super-large cargo capacity. Most pleasing, however, is the driving experience. Far from nimble, the Sprinter handles more like a midsize SUV, and better than any other van in the full-size class. The ride is also surprisingly smooth. In spite of the engine's low horsepower rating, its generous torque and minimal turbo lag result in surprisingly brisk acceleration at low speeds. Highway passing ability is not as impressive, but still quite a
Pros Generous array of body configurations, class-leading cargo capacity and headroom, stellar fuel economy from turbodiesel engine. Cons Lacks high-speed punch, can't get a V8 for serious towing and hauling, higher initial cost versus competitors. What's New for the 2005 Dodge Sprinter Van No major changes this year for the Sprinter. dequate. If you'll be doing plenty of hauling and towing with your van, however, it's best to stick with mainstream vans like the Chevrolet Express and Ford Econoline, whose more powerful engine lineups are better suited to the typical U.S. van buyer.
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