Used 2008 Dodge Sprinter

Dodge took a big risk shelving its traditional full-size van in favor of a European-inspired platform, but it appears American business has embraced the result. The Sprinter’s innovative cargo area, fuel-efficient diesel and gasoline engines and numerous configurations make it the new darling of the delivery and transportation sector. The boxy Sprinter silhouette has even begun showing up in the lucrative RV arena. Fresh from a complete makeover last year, the 2008 Dodge Sprinter may be the best result from the now-terminated marriage between Mercedes-Benz and Chrysler.

When equipped with the 3.0-liter turbodiesel, the 2008 Dodge Sprinter is surprisingly capable. While acceleration is not lightning fast, it is strong and steady. The quiet and smooth diesel engine is fuel-efficient and its generous torque keeps the vehicle from getting bogged down, even when loaded with passengers or cargo. The Sprinter’s steering is heavily weighted, but not to the point of being laborious. Despite its long chassis, the Sprinter possesses a tight turning radius and responds quickly to emergency maneuvers. The ride is also pleasant and the interior cabin exhibits few rattles, even over rough pavement.

The view from behind the Sprinter’s wheel reveals a very Mercedes-Benz-like dash, instrument cluster and controls. The shift column, located near the driver’s right knee, emerges from the base of the dash, creating an open passage between the passenger’s and driver’s footwells. The Sprinter’s massive cargo bay offers a wide variety of configurations, including seating for 12 passengers or a rolling workshop with a ceiling high enough to allow someone over six feet tall to work while standing upright. In its largest configuration, the Sprinter can hold up to 600 cubic feet of cargo weighing over 5,600 pounds.

While the 2008 Dodge Sprinter isn’t likely to win any beauty pageants, there is real attractiveness in its efficient design. The tall windshield and long door glass provide the driver excellent visibility, while the short pointed nose improves aerodynamics as well as ease of parking. Big side mirrors include separate convex mirrors to expose objects hidden in the driver’s blind spots. A choice of three different roof heights (65, 76 or 84 inches) is augmented by two wheelbases and three different overall lengths, and other features include a rear-door opening of 270 degrees and a sliding side-door loading width of 51 inches.

Extended Top Option
The Sprinter’s higher-ceiling option lets you move in and out without needing to stoop down

Diesel engine
Designed by Mercedes-Benz, the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 provides excellent low-end torque and good fuel economy. In Europe, Mercedes-Benz’ diesels have a proven record of durability and longevity.

Every Sprinter includes, as standard equipment, a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6, AutoStick five-speed automatic transmission, power windows, power locks, halogen headlamps, wide-angle mirrors, tilt and height-adjustable steering wheel, AM/FM stereo with CD player, electronic stability control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), auxiliary transmission oil cooler, manual sliding right-side door, keyless entry, hydraulic jack, dual front airbags, tire-pressure monitor and 16-inch steel wheels.

The Sprinter’s configuration options include passenger and cargo vans, three body lengths, two wheelbases (144 or 170 inches) and three roof heights. Other available features include a 3.5-liter gasoline V6, fog lamps, high-pressure headlamp washers, bi-xenon (HID) headlamps, light and rain sensors, power-sliding side door, rear reading lights, side-curtain airbags, ParkSense front and rear park assist, front-passenger luxury seating, auxiliary front heater, premium sound with six-disc CD changer, power sunroof, power rear vent windows, rear backup camera, 12-passenger seating, speed control, speed limiter (74-mph top) and heated driver’s and passenger’s seats.

A standard 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 provides modest horsepower but plenty of weight-moving torque. This engine may struggle somewhat under full load, but fuel economy figures in the low to mid-20s won’t disappoint. Those seeking more horsepower can opt for the 3.5-liter V6, which pulls a bit stronger but also consumes much more fuel.

3.0-liter turbodiesel V6
154 horsepower @ 3400 rpm
280 lb.-ft. of torque @ 1200-2400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A

3.5-liter V6
254 horsepower @ 5900 rpm
250 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2500-5000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A