Mercedes-Benz Adds Four-Wheel Drive to the Sprinter Van [96 Photos]

Mercedes-Benz Vans unveiled the new Sprinter 4×4, which the carmaker says it is the only ex-factory all-wheel-drive van up to five tons (10,000lbs) with ESP. Available as a crewbus or minibus, the Sprinter 4×4 is aimed for businesses or individuals who need a big van that can reach difficult terrains.

The van is fitted with an all-wheel-drive system that can be activated at the touch of a button. The system distributes torque at a ratio of 35:65 between the front and rear axle.

Mercedes-Benz also offers an optional reduction gear to increase off-road capability. When the driver pushes the low-range button, gearing is shortened by a factor of 1.42 or 42 percent, with traction increasing accordingly.

In addition to the 4×4 system, the van’s body is lifted by 110mm (4.33in) at the front and by 80mm (3.14in) at the rear, helping the Sprinter 4×4 to climb slopes that are up to 20 percent more abrupt.

The Sprinter 4×4 is available with the new Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) system, which maintains a preselected speed when driving downhill. The all-wheel-drive system adds about 120kg (265lbs) to the van’s weight, with Mercedes stating that fuel consumption is 0.4 to 0.8 l/100 km higher than for the RWD Sprinter – the Sprinter 313 BlueTec 4×4 averages 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 mpg US).

The Sprinter 4×4 is available with three diesel engines: two 2.15-liter four-cylinder units with 127 hp (129PS) and 161 hp (163PS) respectively, and a 3.0-liter six-cylinder unit producing 188 hp (190PS).

In Germany, the 4×4 system adds a hefty €8,391 ($11,400) to the price of the RWD Sprinter (plus VAT), while the reduction gear costs an extra €534 ($727).

By Dan Mihalascu

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