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By Charl Bosch

Motoring Journalist


Running rather than coasting Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Inkanyezi priced

Three-pointed star's Toyota Coaster rival seats 23 and makes 120kW/330Nm from its 2.1-litre turbodiesel engine.


Having introduced the current third generation Sprinter only two years ago, the local arm of Mercedes-Benz has introduced a new taxi derivative aimed straight at the recently re-introduced Toyota Coaster.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Inkanyezi
Side step a standard feature

Based on the long wheelbase Sprinter 516 CDI, and providing seating for 23, the same as the Coaster, the Inkanyezi (“the star” in isiZulu) is the result of Benz’s ongoing support for the taxi industry with the newcomer being converted at its plant in East London.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Inkanyezi
Rear view

Fitted with so-called hard-wearing Marley floors as well as a standard side-step, the Inkanyezi is motivated by the long-serving 2.1-litre OM 651 turbodiesel engine instead of the new 2.0-litre OM 654 introduced in the updated European model two months ago.

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The amount of twist is routed to the rear wheels, same as the Coaster and Volkswagen Crafter, through a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an optional 7G Tronic automatic.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Inkanyezi
Interior can be specified with a range of extras, namely the MBUX infotainment system.

Despite Mercedes-Benz not divulging standard specification, it did announce a slew of optional extras, namely a 10.25-inch MBUX infotainment system, a tow bar and multi-function steering wheel, surround-view camera system, Active Distance Assist Distronic, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Brake Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Park Assist and Blind Spot Assist.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Inkanyezi
Inkanyezi has seating for 23

Priced from R945 000, the Sprinter 516 CDI Inkanyezi is covered by a two year/unlimited kilometre warranty.

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