2005 DODGE SPRINTER VAN NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2005 Dodge Sprinter?
First, you might ask, "What is the 2005 Dodge Sprinter?" The Dodge Sprinter replaced the three-decade-old Dodge Ram Van two years ago in some regions of the country, and goes on sale nationally this year. Based on a DaimlerChrysler commercial van that is sold in Europe as a Mercedes-Benz, the Dodge Sprinter is the company's entry in North America's full-size van market. For 2005, Dodge Sprinter 2500 and 3500 models remain unchanged.

Advantages of the 2005 Dodge Sprinter:

• Narrow body fits in tight urban quarters
• Tall, firm and comfortable front seats
• Torquey turbodiesel powertrain
• Excellent outward visibility

Objections to the 2005 Dodge Sprinter:

• Tall height a possible detriment when entering parking garages
• Passenger editions feel more like airport shuttles than family haulers
• Only one sliding side door on passenger models

Editor's Advice:
Full-size van buyers have a limited selection from which to choose. Only Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford and GMC sell them. The 2005 Dodge Sprinter was designed and engineered for commercial use in Europe, and its tall, narrow body dimensions bear testimony to its roots. This makes it an unconventional choice in North America. Our experience with the Dodge Sprinter is limited to rides as a passenger in the Mercedes-Benz version, where we found the van quite comfortable and user-friendly, with outstanding outward visibility through the tall windows. It seemed easy to maneuver through traffic, and was constructed with quality materials that fit tightly together. But this vehicle may have trouble squeezing into stateside parking garages due to its tall roofline. Give it a look if you need a proven workhorse.