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2004 Dodge Sprinter Road Test

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Khatir Soltani

Fleet managers will appreciate the Sprinter's fixed maintenance intervals of 50,000 km (30,000 miles) and oil changes needed only every 16,000 km (10,000 miles). Extended maintenance intervals are possible with the Active Service System (ASSYST) maintenance monitor option, allowing flexible oil service intervals in relation to the actual engine load with intervals up to 32,000 km (20,000 miles) achievable.

Nothing from Ford or GM even comes close when it comes to the quality or flexibility of the Dodge Sprinter. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

As far as matching your company colors the Sprinter's 17 color choices should make the job easier. While a healthy palette of hues come standard, optional colors start at only $490, not bad considering how much paint is needed to cover the van's exterior sheetmetal, with top colors costing $1,250.

It's possible to buy the Sprinter in a cab and chassis layout, perfect for specialized applications and even ideal for a C-class RV. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) comes standard on 2500 models, while premium brand features such as rain sensing wipers and a heated windshield are available. Acceleration Skid Control (ASR) is also featured.

For those in the market for a commercial size van or cab/chassis, the new Dodge is an impressive entry. Nothing from Ford or GM even comes close when it comes to quality or flexibility, which is probably the reason companies such as FedEx and UPS have chosen Sprinters for their respective fleets. I think I want mine with a C-class RV attached to the back.

Specifications:

  • Price Range (MSRP):$38,180 - $50,635
  • Body Type: cargo/passenger van
  • Layout: front engine, RWD
  • Engine: 154 hp, 243 lb-ft of torque, 2.7-L, turbodiesel I-5
  • Transmission: 5-spd auto with manual mode
  • Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS and EBD
  • Towing Capacity: 3,810 kg (8,400 lbs)
  • Curb Weight (cargo): 1,691 - 2,345 kg (3,728 - 5,170 lbs)
  • Curb Weight (passenger): 1,972 - 2,519 kg (4,347 - 5,554 lbs)
  • Seating Capacity: 8 - 10
  • Fuel Economy (average city/hwy combined): 10.7 L/100 km (22 mpg)
  • Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 84/115,000 powertrain
  • Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Express, Ford E-Series, GMC Savanna
  • Web Site: www.dodge.ca
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada