Citroen Relay vs. Mercedes Benz Sprinter: How Do the Two Commercial Vans Compare?

When the time comes to invest in a large van, many drivers wonder which model they should choose.
They often end up purchasing either a Citroen Relay or a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Why are these vans so popular? Which should a company choose?
Review the following to determine which vehicle might be right for your organization.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
When a person is asked to describe Mercedes-Benz vehicles, luxury is the first thing that comes to mind. However, these vehicles are also known for reliability, which is why many companies choose the Sprinter van.
They want a vehicle they can count on that meets their unique needs. Buyers determine the van’s height and length before selecting engine and drive options when visiting a mercedes benz sprinter dealer.
This model has been honored countless times and is the benchmark for this type of vehicle. High-quality interiors and a distinctive style make this van stand out. However, the engine under the hood makes it appealing to business owners.
The Sprinter features the 2.1-liter turbodiesel engine drivers have fallen in love with. For those who want an alternative, the 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel is still available if they choose the rear-wheel-drive option.
The engine determines the amount of horsepower provided. Some models offer 114 hp, while others supply 190 horsepower. Front-wheel-drive Sprinters can carry an additional 50kg with the right engine, so consider this when comparing the different options. However, this model has little visual appeal.
Climb inside the cabin and prepare to be amazed. The interior is designed around the central touchscreen that appears in every Sprinter van, one that comes with the MBUX multimedia system. The seats are incredibly comfortable, and visibility is outstanding in this model.
The Sprinter has several USB connections, air conditioning, ample storage, and control clusters for the driver. Buyers find that most items they desire are standard in this model, and they can choose from various upgrades depending on their needs.
The Sprinter’s load lengths vary. They start at six and a half feet and reach over 15 feet. Standard widths range from five and a half feet to just over seven feet, and payloads can reach 3342 pounds. Thanks to these specifications, drivers can carry a range of loads.
What truly makes Mercedes-Benz stand out is the ability to customize the Sprinter to meet the driver’s specific needs. There are 1,700 versions, which most people can’t imagine. Drivers select a drive train, wheelbase, length, height, and various other options to create a van they love.
The Citroen Relay
The Relay is a workhouse that can easily carry extreme loads without breaking the bank at the gas station. The company tested this model extensively to confirm it would hold up with regular use and abuse.
Previous models of the Citroen Relay came with 2.2-liter diesel engines. These engines were practical, cost-effective, and robust. The original Euro 6 regs led to the company replacing these engines with 2.0-liter versions, but the company has now returned to the 2.2-liter versions to comply with the Euro 6D Temp regs.
Drivers often don’t care about this information. They want to know if the engine can produce the power they need, and the 2.2-liter can. It delivers up to 165 horsepower while maintaining low running costs, yet doesn’t sacrifice its ability to carry massive payloads.
Many people view the Relay as futuristic, thanks to its unique looks. The front end slopes steeply and sports the company’s logo. When people see this van, they think of science fiction movies and books. It stands out.
Most vans, including the Citroen Relay, cannot compare with the Sprinter’s interior luxury. Nevertheless, passengers have plenty of room, and the driver has an excellent view thanks to the oversized windscreen. It offers a comfortable ride without sacrificing functionality. The base model has ample storage, comfortable seats, Bluetooth and USB sockets, and a DAB radio.
Companies should consider upgrading to the Enterprise trim level to gain more features. This model includes a touchscreen infotainment system with satellite navigation and cruise control. It also has air conditioning and rear parking sensors, which most business owners appreciate.
Cargo space is never an issue with the Citroen Relay. Load lengths range from 8.5 to 13 feet, while widths vary from four and a half to just under six feet. Load heights aren’t lacking either, as the maximum height is seven feet. Payloads vary by model selected, and the rear doors are over five feet wide with up to six and a half feet in height.
What It Boils Down To
Drivers will find the Citroen Relay and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter to be excellent vehicles. In many cases, it comes down to personal preference. The Relay is a workhorse that will allow them to get more done in a day.
Its durability ensures there is little downtime for maintenance and repairs, and the price for this model is reasonable. Business owners love the cost savings they see with this van and may want to create an entire fleet with these models.
However, the Sprinter should not be overlooked. Mercedes-Benz is known for making luxury vehicles and has done so with this model. It features high-quality cabin materials, loads of technology, comfortable seating, and style.
It also has safety features to ensure a safe ride on every trip. Drivers may not even realize they are driving a van meant for commercial purposes when behind the wheel of a Sprinter. The only drawback is the payload-carrying ability. Otherwise, this van appears to be perfect in every way.
Ultimately, the Mercedes-Benz van comes out slightly ahead because this model comes with many outstanding features. The Citroen Relay does its best to keep up, but it is hard. Citroen is learning what most car and van manufacturers have already discovered.
It’s hard to top a Mercedes, but that doesn’t mean Citroen will stop trying. It will be fun to see what the company includes in this van in the coming model years.