4Matic For All? Mercedes-Benz Vans Unveils New Sprinter Powertrain

Mercedes-Benz Vans introduces the new all-wheel-drive system and 4-cyl. Sprinter diesel and gas lineup that will be available for the U.S. market early next year.

The new OM654 engine provides smoother acceleration, higher torque values, decreased emissions and lower noise and vibration levels than its predecessors, Mercedes-Benz Vans says. The 4-cyl. will be available in two output ratings, 168 hp and 208 hp.

The combination of an aluminum block and steel pistons, stepped-recess combustion process, Nanoslide cylinder coating for reduced friction, dynamic multi-way exhaust-gas recirculation and near-engine exhaust gas aftertreatment facilitates lower consumption and low emissions. Due to its position, the exhaust-gas aftertreatment works with little heat loss, resulting in more efficient operation.

Mercedes-Benz Vans also is transitioning to a new 9G-Tronic transmission that will be standard for all variants. The 9-speed transmission provides increased driving comfort, reduced fuel consumption, decreased noise levels, lower emissions, higher overall gear ratio and quicker downshifts.

Compared to the previous 7G-Tronic transmission, the 9G-Tronic offers an increased first-gear ratio resulting in a quicker takeoff, more gears and a greater ratio spread leading to overall improved performance.

The new Sprinter all-wheel drive replaces the previous 4x4 system, providing more power, endurance and overall seamless transition, Mercedes-Benz Vans says. With the AWD, customers experience automatic torque on demand with up to 50% split per axle, unlike the previous engageable system, which provided 35% of torque to the front and 65% to the rear axle when in  4x4 mode.

The new Sprinter AWD system also maintains capabilities found in its predecessor in terms of ground clearance, approach angle, departure angle and breakover angle, the company says.

The ’23 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers a streamlined packaging structure and improved features to fit a variety of customers –everyday drivers,  parcel delivery, construction workers, upfit customers and everyone in-between.