Mercedes-Benz Vans USA Unveils all-new Sprinter AWD

Mercedes-Benz Vans today introduced a new all-wheel drive (AWD) system and 4-Cylinder Sprinter diesel and gas lineup that will be available for the U.S. market early next year. It’s part of a transition to a full 4-cylinder lineup for gasoline and, ahem, ultimately doomed diesel engines for model year 2023, creating a “more efficient portfolio.”

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The new engine dubbed OM654 introduced in 2016 is said to achieve smoother acceleration, higher torque values, decreased emissions and lower noise and vibration levels. It will be available in two power output ratings: 125kW (168 hp) and 155kW (208 hp), “providing a more capable engine compared to its predecessors.”

The combination of aluminum block and steel pistons, the stepped recess combustion process as well as the (marketing babble alert> Nanoslide cylinder coating for reduced in-engine friction, together with the dynamic multi- way exhaust gas recirculation and the near-engine exhaust gas after treatment, also helps lower consumption and low emissions, Mercedes claims. Due to its position, the exhaust gas after treatment works with little heat loss resulting in a more efficient operation. AutoInformed awaits the actual certification numbers in the new applications.

Mercedes-Benz Vans will also be using a new 9G-TRONIC transmission (9-speed), now equipped as standard for all variants. The 9G-TRONIC transmission “provides customers with increased driving comfort, reduction in fuel consumption, decreased noise levels, lower emissions, higher overall gear ratio and quicker downshifts allowing for agile acceleration. Compared to the previous 7G-TRONIC transmission offering, the 9G-TRONIC offers an increased first gear ratio resulting in a quicker take-off, more gears, and a greater ratio spread leading to an overall improved performance.”

The new Sprinter all-wheel-drive (AWD) replaces the previous 4×4 system, providing “more power, endurance and overall seamless transition for the customer, allowing them to take on any terrain with ease. With the AWD, customers experience automatic torque on demand with up to 50% split per axle, unlike the previous engageable system, which provided 35 percent of torque to the front and 65 percent to the rear axle when in 4×4 mode. The new Sprinter AWD system also maintains capabilities offered by its predecessor in terms of ground clearance, approach angle, departure angle and breakover angle.”