VW Crafter vs. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter - What Are the Differences?

Volkswagen Crafter vs Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Exterior

While they might bare some similarities to one another, a closer look at each reveals key differences in their design. Volkswagen Crafter adopts a familiar signature style with the latest generation model, favouring a utilitarian and boxy design that stretches from the body shape to the front-end treatment. By contrast, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter gained a more fluid design for its current generation, inspired by the Vision Van concept of 2016. 

Interiors for the Volkswagen Crafter and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The Crafter is the more practical of these two vehicles, but the Sprinter has a touch more stylish flair, even if the margin between the two vans was shrunk by a recent update for the former. The latter is also a little roomier. However, when it comes to views of the road and general driving comfort, there is not a huge amount to choose between them.

Specs, Payload, Dimensions of the Crafter and Sprinter

While the Crafter offers three trim levels, with the Sprinter you get just the one. However, the Sprinter has generous proportions nonetheless, and is similar to its rival's middle trim level in terms of equipment and so on.

Both models have three roof heights, and there are as many load lengths on the Crafter, with an extra one on the Sprinter. Maximum load volumes are 16.4 cubic metres on the Crafter, 15.5 on the Sprinter. The Crafter is notably the longer vehicle, with maximum load lengths up to 4,855m, in contrast with its competitor's 4,300m.

Gross weights range from 3.0 to 5.0 tonnes for both vehicles, but the smaller, lighter Sprinter can take more weight. Payloads are up to 1,031kg on the 3.5-tonne Crafter, 1,387kg on its rival at the same tonnage.

As a final note on engines, the Sprinter is powered by 2.1-litre and 3.0-litre units, the Crafter by a slightly smaller 2.0-litre model. Both have automatic and manual and front and rear-wheel drives.

Volkswagen Crafter vs. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: The Verdict

In truth, the Volkswagen Crafter and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter are both excellent large vans with a lot to offer, providing good driving and handling plus stellar on-road performance and sufficient options in terms of varying body styles to suit different needs.

The Crafter scores particularly well in terms of practicality of its cab, choice of specs and trims, as well as fuel economy. The Sprinter for its part offers a better payload, not to mention superb residual values.

If you're looking for reliable and cost-effective commercial van leasing options, don't miss out on the fantastic deals available for both VW Crafter vans and Mercedes Sprinter van leasing today!

How Vansdirect Can Help

As with anything else, a lot will depend on what you need your vehicle for but, ultimately, you should find there's not that much to choose between these two excellent vans.

We're happy to talk you through which model might best suit your particular needs. We also have some fantastic finance options, from van leasing and contract hire to hire purchase, so offer great flexibility. Talk to us about which model would best suit your business and fleet needs, and which finance package would be most appropriate. Give us a call on 0800 169 6995 or simply fill in our contact form online today.