With MSRPs starting at $42,150, the 2009 Dodge Sprinter presents potential purchasers with an unmatched array of configurations and driving responsiveness. It is not as powerful as its competitors, and it is a bit pricier, but it has so much interior space that it could almost carry them inside of itself. It also delivers excellent fuel economy and a quality of manufacturing that is Mercedes grade. It features a walkthrough cabin and loads of available body styles and optional features for safety, convenience and fun.

There's only one engine available for the 2009 Sprinter from Dodge: a 3.0L 154hp 280 lb-ft turbodiesel V6. It lacks both power and a strong capacity for towing. However, we're talking about a passenger van here. It is not meant to win NASCAR races or tow mobile homes. It is meant to carry passengers - and it does that very well. The Sprinter is actually a renamed Mercedes-Benz sprinter. The foundation of its design standards are based on European thinking strategies. The only competition that it knows is the Ford Econoline and the Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana. And while the Sprinter was totally redesigned in 2007, its competitors have seen no major changes since Bill Clinton was president.

The Dodge Sprinter shows off its Mercedes heritage in terms of easy maneuverability and excellent fuel efficiency. Many American drivers think that the Sprinter seems odd looking; they think that it looks very narrow. However, that narrow appearance is simply a result of the Sprinter being both taller and longer than its competitors. It features a standard 144 inch wheelbase which is longer than the extended version of the Econoline. And if you opt for the 170 inch wheelbase, both GM and Ford competitors look like little dwarves.

The maximum towing capacity for the 2009 Sprinter is 5000 pounds. Ford and GM competitors can tow more than 10,000 pounds. But you have to consider the facts and ask yourself relevant questions. Does it really matter if you can only tow 5000 pounds behind a massive passenger-van full of occupants? It cannot be overstated that the Sprinter is meant for hauling passengers. It comfortably accommodates 12 occupants with its standard set up. And when you just consider that, there really is no need to think about the Ford and GM passenger vans any further.

Accessories are all powered, 16 inch steel wheels are standard, climate control is automated, a standard emergency exit window is included and an ear-thumping CD/MP3 player also comes stock with the 2009 Dodge Sprinter passenger van. Optional features include a power-sliding door for passengers, headlight washers, integrated cruise control, both rear and front parking assist systems, a heated windshield, rear AC and heat, audio controls on the steering wheel, powered sunroofs in the front and/or rear - and more.

One of the most impressive features concerning the 2009 Dodge Sprinter is that it will deliver you fuel efficiency ratings in the mid twenties. That is unheard of for vehicles in this segment, especially when you consider the giant size of the Sprinter. If your goal is to haul passengers, then there's only one choice available on the market. That is the Mercedes-built 2009Dodge Sprinter.