Mercedes-Benz has announced significant upgrades to its Sprinter van for the U.S. market, focusing on enhanced performance and efficiency. The 2023 model year will see the introduction of a new all-wheel drive (AWD) system and a streamlined engine lineup featuring exclusively 4-cylinder diesel and gasoline options. These changes promise to elevate the Sprinter’s capabilities and appeal as a versatile commercial and recreational vehicle.
The transition to a fully 4-cylinder engine portfolio marks a strategic shift towards improved fuel economy and reduced emissions without compromising on power. The newly developed OM654 diesel engine stands at the heart of this change, offering advancements in smoothness, torque delivery, and environmental performance. Available in two output configurations – 125kW (168 hp) and 155kW (208 hp) – this engine surpasses its predecessors in capability while minimizing noise and vibration. The engine’s advanced design incorporates an aluminum block, steel pistons, a stepped recess combustion process, and NANOSLIDE® cylinder coating to minimize internal friction. Furthermore, dynamic multi-way exhaust gas recirculation and near-engine exhaust gas aftertreatment contribute to lower consumption and cleaner emissions. The positioning of the exhaust gas aftertreatment system ensures efficient operation with minimal heat loss.
Complementing the new engine family is the introduction of the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, now standard across all Sprinter variants. This advanced transmission enhances driving comfort, reduces fuel consumption, and contributes to lower noise levels. The wider gear ratio spread and quicker downshifts of the 9G-TRONIC compared to the previous 7G-TRONIC transmission result in more responsive acceleration and improved overall performance. The increased first gear ratio ensures a quicker take-off, while the greater ratio spread optimizes engine efficiency across various driving conditions.
A key highlight of the 2023 Sprinter updates is the state-of-the-art all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, replacing the previous 4×4 setup. This new system offers a significant leap in performance and ease of use. Unlike the previous engageable 4×4 system, the new AWD provides automatic torque distribution on demand, dynamically adjusting up to 50% of torque to each axle. The earlier system was limited to a fixed 35 percent front and 65 percent rear torque split in 4×4 mode. This intelligent torque distribution ensures optimal traction and stability in diverse driving situations and terrains. Importantly, the new Sprinter AWD retains the crucial off-road geometry of its predecessor, maintaining comparable ground clearance, approach angle, departure angle, and breakover angle. This ensures that the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4WD van continues to deliver exceptional capability and ruggedness expected by its customers.
These comprehensive upgrades reinforce the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter’s position as a leader in the commercial vehicle segment. With its enhanced powertrain and all-wheel-drive system, the 2023 Sprinter is poised to meet the diverse needs of a wide range of users. From daily commutes and parcel delivery to construction work and specialized upfitting applications, the Mercedes-Benz 4WD van provides the comfort, power, and off-road capability to tackle any task with confidence. The new Sprinter is engineered to be the ideal partner for professionals and adventurers alike, offering a seamless blend of performance, efficiency, and versatility.
