Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vs Kia PV5
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Vans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter starts from $79,900 before on-road costs, while the Kia PV5 opens at $55,990. That makes the Kia PV5 the more affordable entry point by $23,910.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $87,890 and $61,589 respectively.
The Kia PV5 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Kia PV5 by roughly $8,005 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter uses a Diesel producing 110kW and 320Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout.
The Kia PV5 responds with a Electric Motor making 120kW and 250Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 12.5 seconds.
The Kia PV5 has the clear power advantage at 120kW vs 110kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter measures 5,932mm long on a 3,665mm wheelbase, 1237mm longer than the Kia PV5 at 4,695mm (2,995mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 10500L in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and 1500L in the Kia PV5, giving the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter a 9000L advantage. The Kia PV5 seats 5 vs 3.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,508/year for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and $907/year for the Kia PV5. That is a $1,601 annual difference in favour of the Kia PV5.
Estimated annual total: $2,508 (Mercedes-Benz Sprinter) vs $907 (Kia PV5). The Kia PV5 saves you roughly $1,601 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz Sprinter) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia PV5). The Kia PV5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter if: You need more boot space, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia PV5 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia PV5 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Kia PV5 will save you roughly $1,601 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has a clear edge. The Kia PV5 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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