In a repeat performance of the 2003 awards, the Sprinter beat off challenges from the Iveco Daily, Renault Master and Ford Transit to retain its ‘Fleet Van of the Year’ title for the second time in a row.

Applauding Mercedes-Benz for the vehicle’s build quality and its dealer support, the judges had no hesitation in awarding the Sprinter the top spot again.

Of the 14 awards up for grabs, this was one of only two to be decided by a panel of independent judges, who drew up their own shortlist before picking the winner – the award cannot be entered or applied for. In this case the panel comprised a dozen of the country’s top fleet van buyers.

In Australia the Sprinter van continues to prosper backed by a strong dealer network and July year-to-date figures totalling 1,199 units, an increase of 8.6 per cent on last years sales.

Fleet business continues to be an important driver of Sprinter sales, with strong commitments from the Australian ambulance services, the Defence Force, Maui motorhome rentals and Britz campervan rentals, to name a few.

“Fleet buyers overseas are no different to their Australian counterparts,” said Mr Campbell York, Senior Manager responsible for Mercedes-Benz light commercial vehicles.

“They are seeking performance, driver safety, low operating costs, reliability, excellent dealer support and strong resale value.

“Sprinter delivers all of these better than the competition,” said Mr York.