Mercedes-Benz Sprinter adds entry-level, $33,490 Worker trim

Okay, how hot is a super base Sprinter on black steel wheels? Maybe it's just us. But nevermind our weird Sprinter love, for folks who actually use this van for its intended work purpose, we've got good news. At the Chicago Auto Show, Mercedes is showing a new trim, called Worker, that creates a new base price point for the fullsize Sprinter van.

At $33,490 (including $995 for destination), the Sprinter Worker is a full $4,000 cheaper than the current base Sprinter 2500 Cargo Van. It's also a good $3,000 cheaper than the diesel-equipped Ram Promaster 1500, and $4,000 less expensive than a Ford Transit 150 XL with a diesel. Of course, both of those models offer gasoline-powered versions that undercut the Sprinter Worker's base price.

What do you get for $33,490? Not a ton. The Worker trim is only available with the 144-inch wheelbase and low-roof configuration. It comes with the excellent 2.1-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, but can't be optioned with the 3.0-liter diesel V6. You can't get four-wheel drive, either. But that doesn't mean it isn't a workhorse. The Sprinter Worker will tow 5,000 pounds, has 3,512 pounds of maximum payload, and can hold 319 cubic feet of stuff. For folks who need basic hauling transportation, this seems like a good option.

The Sprinter Worker can either be optioned in super-base spec, or with many comfort and convenience features. There's a $1,499 Convenience package that adds heated power mirrors, cruise control, automatic lights, a multifunction steering wheel, and trailer hitch pre-wiring. The Utility pack ($2,999) adds all the aforementioned stuff plus a wood cargo floor, rear step, LED interior lights, two additional keys, and glass in the rear cargo doors. Finally, the $4,499 Overtime package bundles all that good stuff and adds an upgraded audio system, highbeam assist, blind spot assist, a rear-view camera, first aid kit, and emergency flashlight. But at that point, you're already in non-Worker Sprinter pricing territory.

Like we said, this seems like a great option for people who need a basic work van that can haul a ton of stuff. See it for yourself in the gallery above.

slide-3791799 Image Credit: Mercedes-Benz Source