Part of that comfort level was brought about by its user friendly controls and ergonomically designed dash. The instrument cluster is enabled for electronic diagnosis of the engine and ABS system via a CAN-bus. The center console integrates the radio, heating controls, a group of ancillary switches or 'dummies' that may or may not be operation depending on what options are ordered, the gear shift lever and a 12 V socket. Under the console are a set of two cupholders as well as a pen holder.
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| The big van's comfortable ride is enhanced by its user friendly controls and ergonomically designed dash. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
The heating and ventilation system plus the standard "Tempmatic" air-conditioning system has been designed for fine tuning and individually adjustment. Two "wide-angle jets" transfer fresh air to head height as well as back to the passenger compartment. The diesel heater can be preprogrammed to warm up at a designated time, making it a hospitable friend to climb into on a cold winter morning.
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| Equipped with a traction and stability control system, Dodge's van is one of, if not the safest commercial van available. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
The door panels feature large pockets for additional storage, while rocker switches allow easy adjustment of the optional power outside mirrors and power windows that were featured on my well equipped test vehicle. Those mirrors worked well, allowing me to see behind to each adjacent lane.
While visibility is important for safety, the Sprinter features some unexpected standard safety features my cube vans never even offered. OK, dual front airbags aren't unexpected, but a traction and stability control system is, making Dodge's van one of, if not the safest commercial van available.
As far as braking goes, the Sprinter doesn't just get an anti-lock system to cover up the inadequacies of a merely adequate design. The Dodge van gets a sophisticated hydraulic dual circuit brake system with floating-caliper disc brakes on all four wheels. As well, each of the discs is reportedly easy to replace. What's more, a brake booster is added to lessen pedal pressure, plus sensors to monitor brake-pad wear with a warning light for brake-fluid level.