The 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has been given a raft of updates, including the ability to drive on some awful roads.

What you see here is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter in an unusual environment. You’d expect to see the multi-seat big bus from Mercedes-Benz in a city, providing transport for many people and yet, these pictures tell a different story.

Under the skin is a new all-wheel-drive setup that allows a torque split of up to 50% for each axle. Mercedes-Benz claims this new model has favourable ground clearance as well as good approach and departure angles.

Given South Africa’s deteriorating roads and the inclement weather we’ve had over the past few months, we could see the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter making a case for itself as a go-everywhere people mover.

As far as engines are concerned, the new 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter gains a new 2.0-litre 4-cylinder motor that replaces the 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6. There are two states of tune, with 125 kW and 400 Nm, and 155 kW and 450 Nm. These outputs compare favourably to the outgoing engine which could only muster 140 kW and 441 Nm. A petrol 2.0 engine is also available with 140 kW and 350 Nm.

All Sprinter models feature the Mercedes-Benz 9-speed automatic gearbox with the claim the new transmission offers improved fuel economy. A shorter 1st gear means faster acceleration off the line.

An electric 2023 eSprinter model will be following soon, with Mercedes-Benz upgrading its South Carolina plant to build the new model.

This upgraded 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter hits the United States market in early 2023 and we’re expecting an update from Merc SA soon. Currently, Mercedes-Benz SA offers its Sprinter Inkanyezi 516CDI, which is a fantastic story for the local economy. These Sprinters arrive in SA and are locally converted to suit our market, and Mercedes-Benz SA has structured a pocket-friendly pricing package for commercial operators.

Further Reading

Mercedes-Benz SA converts Sprinters

Mercedes-Benz V300 Review