2008 Dodge Sprinter Wagon Review

The Sprinter is a commercial van that debuted in 2004. Based on the European Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, it features a unique high roof. It was completely redesigned in 2007. The Wagon is the passenger model with 12 seats, while the Van is for cargo.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Dodge Sprinter Wagon is unique with its European style, high roof, and superior handling. While it is pricey, it still offers good value for anyone seeking to carry a lot of passengers in the utmost comfort. While its relatively puny engine keeps it from being a utilitarian workhorse, it might just be the best passenger van on the market.

What's New For 2008:

Front swivel bucket seats are now standard. Twelve-passenger seating is now standard on all models. A powered sliding door is now available.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Dodge Sprinter Wagon price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$42,150

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:
12

Gas Mileage:
NA/NA

Engine:
3.0L V6

Horsepower:
154@3400RPM

Torque:
280@1200RPM

Transmission:
5 Speed Automatic

Drive:
FR/RWD

Fuel Capacity:
25

Fuel Type:
diesel

Basic Warranty:
36/36000

Powertrain Warranty:
36/36000

Rust Warranty:
60/100000

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power information is not available. The last generation had a serious flaw that caused seam failure in the Turbo Resonator. The computer would interpret this as an engine failure and drop the Sprinter's top speed to about 30 mph. It's unknown whether this problem affects the current generation. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Crash test scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control come standard. The stability control system has been designed with the Sprinter's high center of gravity in mind. Side airbags, parking sensors, and a backup camera are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Spacious
+ Sound handling
+ Excellent fit and finish

Cons
- Expensive
- No V8
- Top heavy

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chevrolet Express Passenger Van costs several thousand less, has a V8 with 170 more hp, can tow more, and includes side airbags, but lacks a standard third row and a CD player. The Ford E-Series Wagon costs several thousand less, and has a V8 with 100 more hp, but lacks a third row. The GMC Savana Passenger Van stacks up against the Sprinter much like the Express.

What Others Are Saying:

"A practical and honest bread van for not much bread, man." - Car and Driver

"For our purposes the Sprinter was a near-perfect ride. Big enough for everyone to move around inside at will, lots and lots of cargo capacity, easy to drive long distances, excellent fuel mileage for such a big vehicle (20-mpg and better), so nice to look at that we kept getting looks of curiosity and a fine sound system even at pumped up volumes." - The Auto Channel

"The Euro-flavored Sprinter trumps traditional large passenger vans with greater headroom and a less glutinous appetite for fuel. Sprinter prices start higher than domestic vans, but the big Dodge's passenger-friendly ways and potentially lower operating costs make it a strong value." - Consumer Guide

Read more about the 2008 Dodge Sprinter Wagon at the Dodge manufacturer web site.

Published on Thursday, June 26, 2008 - Email to a friend

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