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MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 12-SEAT MINIBUS ADDED TO RANGE

MERCEDES-BENZ VANS has added a new 12-seat ‘minibus’ to its massive range of some 1700 different Sprinter variants possible, the company recently announced.

According to the company, the Sprinter opens up “…almost unlimited application possibilities with a multitude of variants fit for a wide range of transport needs and sectors.

Its new 12-seat minibus Transfer model is, “…more comfortable, more versatile and safer than ever before,” the company explains and that it’s a, “…perfect marriage of form and function that benefits passengers and businesses in every aspect,” it adds.

The 416 Sprinter Transfer gets a chrome grille, alloy wheels, fogs lamps, high-performance headlamps and partial LED tail lights, comfort overhead control panel, electric rear sliding door, light and rain sensors and, from the 120kW engine, more power, says MB.

Ideal for a range of traditional small bus uses such as school, aged care or crew buses through to efficient airport transfers, the company says its versatile minibus is, “…always the right choice.”

In terms of features and of particular use now in such a segment during the current Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic, access to and from the rear passenger compartment is easy thanks to the electric sliding rear door and step – operated by the driver inside or another passenger in the back via a button. Thus approaching passengers needn’t touch the door physically for it to be opened, a spokesperson confirmed.

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Ergonomically, the new Sprinter Transfer builds on the segment-defining standards set by its predecessors, says MB Vans, and progresses further with new equipment features.

For example, there is no need to search for the key when entering the cab, as the new Sprinter has touch-button keyless start. Optimised roof-mounted air conditioning systems ensure pleasant interior temperatures for all and the ability to regulate the passenger compartment separately, the company explains.

New passenger seating now has a reclinable backrest and foldable armrests, and seating rows are now equipped with USB charging sockets and stowage space for smartphones, it confirms.

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POWER TIME

The new Transfer has a four-cylinder engine in two output classes with 7G TRONIC transmission. From a displacement of 2.1 litres, this engine generates either two outputs. In the 414 model it offers 105kW with a peak torque of 330Nm or in the 416 it offers 120kW with a peak torque of 360Nm. All engine variants are standard with 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, said to provide, “…smooth gearshifts, low fuel consumption and low maintenance costs.”

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SAFETY FIRST

Mercedes-Benz Vans equips the Sprinter Transfer with safety features previously the preserve of passenger cars, it states. The standard safety equipment includes: active brake assist, blind spot assist, reversing camera, lane-keeping assist, ‘attention assist’, and front and window airbags for driver and co-driver.

Additionally a range of optional safety and assistance systems are now available including: the radar-based adaptive cruise control ‘Distronic’, active lane-keeping assist, and the ‘Parking Package’ with 360-degree camera. ‘Crosswind assist’ continues on board as standard, said to make the passenger journey considerably safer, especially at higher speeds on freeways, the company explains.

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TOP TECH

The Sprinter Transfer sets completely new standards when it comes to telematics, boasts MB. The MBUX multimedia system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) has a 7-inch HD display as standard with an optional 10.25-inch alternative head unit, and is controlled either via the touch-capable steering wheel controls, the touchscreen or a completely new voice control system, it explains.

Full smartphone integration via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay is included. Satellite navigation is optional with the standard 7-inch head unit and included with the optional 10.25-inch alternative. When on board it operates by keywords such as “Hey, Mercedes!”, and registers turns of phrase in everyday speech, says MB.

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SERVICING

All Sprinter variants have service intervals up to a maximum of 40,000 kilometres or two years, confirms MB. Its comprehensive warranty lasts for five years or until the vehicle has travelled up to 250,000km. Standard Roadside Assist comes at no extra cost during the manufacturer warranty period. This means customers are covered anywhere in Australia – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, MB states. 

Furthermore, a simple and flexible range of ServiceCare ‘pay as you go’ and pre-paid capped priced servicing options will provide transparent servicing costs and peace of mind for customers, the company explains.

 

Photography: courtesy MB Vans

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