That's about as good of a real-world test as you can get. Great job! I have the 22 MB 4x4 Sanctuary. I went out to look for the 23 AWD. But last week I found a shockingly affordable low mileage 4x4 online with a private party. In fact, it had only 573 miles on it for less than $100k. So I couldn't pass that up to pay $120k+ for the AWD 23 Sanctuary. We both did good. I like your rig. You get better gas mileage too.
I would have done the same thing as you. We started looking for a 2022 4x4 with the six cly but at the time we found those to be as much or more then a 23. The prices have been crazy the last few years. When a good deal comes along you jump on it. The 23 4 cly and 9 speed transmission are a great combination. It does get better mileage then our previous 6 cly 3.0 but honestly it’s not so huge that it would have swayed me one way or another. We don’t drive a ton of miles either. Glad to hear you got a good deal and you happy with your decision. That’s rare these days. Best
Great review, we got the 2022 4x4 and just finished our build. We are not serious off roaders but wanted to get on forest roads. So far we have taken our Sprinter on back roads in New Mexico (Chaco Culture) and also did the Schafer Trail near Moab - one advantage of the 4x4 is you can set it in Low Gear and it won't let you go to fast. I agree with you on vibrations and when we go off road - we crawl - for us it's time to have fun, pause and take selfies, not kick up dust. I do wish we got the AWD, just because it's always-on, but and the end of the day we just want to get out and explore. For what it's worth, the 4x4 is a sub-contractor to MB that makes and mounts the system, while the AWD is taken from MB SUV's and mounted to the Sprinter.
Hello Raphael. Sounds like you built the perfect Sprinter for your needs. I see many 4x4 built out Sprinters that look ready for the Zombie apocalypse but don’t appear to have ever ventured off pavement. Total Mall-Crawlers lol. Your using your Sprinter just as intended. These are big, top heavy and semi-delicate vehicles and damaging it off-roading it past it’s limits would really be a costly bummer. Light off-roading and off pavement Exploring is what I intend to do. Adding a mild suspension upgrade and some slightly bigger tires is all I plan to do. I agree with you about 4- low, slow speed crawling over/through obstacles. The most damage I’ve seen off roading is people trying to use speed to get them through a situation. If your going to only be doing light off roading then AWD should be fine. The 9-Speed is geared low for the first few gears so you can still drive fairly slow off-road. Did not know about a sub-contractor making MB’s 4x4. I remember many years ago a German company making a 4x4 kit for Sprinters. I wonder if it’s the same company that MB used for their “factory” 4x4s? At any rate it’s a good system that seems to have held up well an is highly regarded. The AWD in the 2023s is a version of Mercedes 4Matic used in their cars/SUVs
I work out of a 2008 RWD Sprinter in Alberta ----- No AWD/4WD for me but I put on nokian hakkapeliitta lt3 tires studded for the winter. It's the poor man's all wheel drive and makes a monumental difference in winter driving.
Yup. Studded snows make a world of difference. I had Nokian studs on my Audi Quattro and that thing went anywhere, deep snow, compacted ice it didn’t matter. This MB Sprinter with AWD and studded tires does amazingly well. Feel way more confident then my previous rear wheel drive Sprinter.
We have the 2016 Sprinter 4x4, 3 liter engine, now at 134,000 miles (by the way, it runs just like new, never had a problem). I am a ski and camping enthusiast, driving often on snowy roads and light off road but I only needed to engage the 4x4 maybe for a total of less than 100 miles. A couple of days ago, returning to Oregon from Florida, we were caught in a snow storm in the mountains of Utah but did not need to engage the 4x4. Anyway, permanent AWD would have been preferable. The most difficult off road were I needed the 4x4 engaged is our favorite fishing/camping spot where I previously drove in a Toyota Highlander AWD. I agree with you, if you want serious off road, you buy a different vehicle. For a Sprinter, AWD would do just fine. On snowy roads, driving at higher speed, it would be preferable to 4x4. The Sprinter 4x4 system is made by Oberaigner, an Austrian/German company. It is more like an AWD, it has no differential lock, can be used at any speed and on dry pavement as well. To me, it looks like the only difference is that it is not permanent.
Initially I was dead set on buying the 4x4. The 2WDs just don’t cut it for the area I drive and activities we are engaged in. My 2WD Sprinter was scary in the snow with high probability of getting stuck. When I finally went to the dealership fall of 22 is when I found out the 4x4 was discontinued and it was now AWD or hunt down a 2022. Ditto on the 6-cyl. Your right in most cases 2WD will be fine but when you need 4WD you generally really need it. Actually just having the right tires is the best thing a person can change to make their vehicle perform as required. The BFG Mud terrains on my Jeep are terrible in the snow and ice on the roads here. Putting studded and siped snow tires on was a game changer for driving the Sprinter in the ice rink they call roads around here. So far the AWD has performed excellent, much like the Quattro in my Audi. I feel extremely confident with MB’s 4MATIC AWD. I agree that most people will be perfectly served with AWD. Either the 4x4 or AWD is a toss up and just depends on the use the driver expects to put the van through and personal preference. I heard from another commenter that the 4x4 system was developed by another company and licensed to MB. I guess it’s a hybrid of AWD and 4x4 and not really a true 4x4 but mimics the low range with some high tech hocus pocus? At any rate it works well and has been extremely popular with the Van crowd. Sounds like you enjoying your sprinter 4x4 and making some good memories
Very well done, thank you. "Not a big deal..." and "...people are used to driving in snow here ..." I love it. YT is full of catastrophy videos on pure 3 inches of snow :D.
Wow....gotta admit, its nice watching a good video from an experienced owner. My dilemma is the reliability of the MB 2.0 twin turbo diesel AWD. Im looking at buying an EKKO rv on this chasis and with a gross weight of 11k pounds should i be worried about travelling the country in retirement with this type of chasis....or do i get the FORD version with 3.5L EcoBoost V6 gas. Really appreciate your thoughts!!! Cheers!!
Sorry for late reply, somehow didn’t see this in my feed. 2.0 bi-turbo longterm reliability unknown. This engine isn’t exactly new and has been used in several configurations across MB’s cars, SUV and now the Sprinter. I’d like to think that Benz did their homework and testing but the real world owner testing will tell the story and that takes time. I haven’t heard of any major issues in the Sprinter forums. Ours Sprinter is over a year now with close to 12k on the clock. It’s been 100% trouble free so far. I wouldn’t hesitate to take it cross country. So far love this engine-9spd transmission combo. It has more then adequate power and that 9spd transmission is the best one used in any previous Sprinter. The mileage has been excellent compared to my two prior Sprinter 3.0l turbo diesel’s. Probably in the 20+ mpg range and I drive fast and hard with lots of climbing in mountains etc. Have towed a 4000lb trailer on several occasions no problem power wise. Have you considered a 2022 Sprinter 3.0 turbo diesel? Those are proven with many exceeding 500,000 miles on original engine. Also there is a gas version of the 2.0 that is offered. Cheaper and no DEF to deal with. My biggest complaint with diesels is having to put DEF fluid in them. That stuff is expensive and really boosts your operating costs. Can’t speak to the Ford transit. I’m a Mercedes snob so somewhat biased. I see allot of them on the road and people seem to like them overall. They sell well so I would think that they are pretty reliable and perhaps a better value proposition. Also one of the big advantages of buying a Ford chassis is the extensive dealer network all across the US. There are far fewer MB and Freightliner dealerships available when traveling. I really don’t think either would have a major advantage over the other. One other thing is the Ford Transit has an extremely long history in Europe and around the world. It’s pretty much a German design and is very similar to the Sprinter in its construction. Ford finally decided to bring it to the US market. Perhaps because of Mercedes success with the Sprinter. Duh lol. Good time to be buying an RV. Hear dealerships are hurting and willing to deal and Good luck with your decision
Excellent review. Curious that you compare your Jeep 4x4 vs. Sprinter AWD. It sounds like the Sprinter “4x4” was a selectable AWD with an open center differential which could send up to 35% power to the front. Can you clarify if you think that the old AWD system is better for folks who are going “wheelin’”?
Hello XY_Skis. The Jeep comparison is a metaphor for the previous 4x4 Sprinter and 4x4s in general. Your right the previous Sprinter “4x4” with selectable front engagement and a low/high range mimics “true” 4-wheel drive. It is a hybrid system with elements of both AWD and 4-Wheel drive. Most so called 4-wheel drives are really only 2-wheel unless they have the ability to lock the differentials which most don’t. The 2023 with the AWD is much better system for most drivers, as a daily driver and casual off pavement use IMO. It doesn’t take skill but rather replaces human decision making with technology. My Audi Quattro was amazing. It went through snow practically up to the hood. Never got stuck with it. The 9-spd transmission in the 23 Sprinter seems geared very low for the first few gears. As such it crawls along pretty good at low speeds. As for actually wheeling the Sprinter I agree with most proponents of the previous 4x4 system that having a low range is essential to slowly crawl over/through obstacles and not use speed to bonsai your way though them, risking breaking drivetrain and suspension components. My Jeep’s transfer-case is geared at 4:1 and the Axels are 4:88. That effectively makes the crawl ratio something like 125:1. In 1st gear 4-low it will idle along up a sheer cliff, albeit at a snails pace. Lock the diffs and it will go places most people can’t even walk up. If I was planning to take my Sprinter off the beaten path on a regular basis I’d probably opt for the 2022 4x4. But barring a Zombie apocalypse I’m not planning on thrashing my Sprinter doing seriously off-roading. I’ve seen too many damaged/rolled Jeep’s and trucks in my day to chance it. Besides if I damaged it my wife would kill me. Where I live there are many hundreds of miles of Forrest service roads I can travel if I want to find solitude. Up by the Canadian border I went several days without seeing another soul. Just Grizzly bears lol
@@SPQR-Z That's about as good as it can be said and easiest for beginners to understand. Last week I went out to find a 23 AWD MB Sanctuary Sprinter. But what I found was a private seller with an unused show room condition (573 miles) 22 MB 4x4 Sanctuary Sprinter. For $40k less than the new 23 MB AWD. I couldn't pass it up. I like hearing that there will always be a die-hard 4x4 fan club out there.
Heh, I recognize that concrete wall, that's the north turnout by salmon lake off 83. Really cool seeing a review that's super relevant to me. (Gallatin County saying hello) Thanks for the video! I too bought an audi and had it change my understanding of AWD vs 4x4. Still have it - 2013 A7 w/Quattro. This review has solidified my desire to get the new 23 version of the awd system, and it is nice to know that the studded tires available for the vehicle do the job appropriately. My biggest concern with the 4x4 vs the AWD was actually the low-range 4LO gearing. From the sound of it though, it's not necessary with the more even front/rear split.
Well hello neighbor. Yup that Salmon Lake, was checking the ice to see if it’s solid enough for ice fishing. A few people out there with vehicles. Yes owning/driving a AWD demonstrated they are quite capable off-road and in the snow. In fact they make a better everyday daily driver all things considered. Limited experience driving the 2022 4x4 but the brief time driving one and then comparing the AWD was enough. I definitely preferred the way the 2023 AWD drove compared to the 4x4 Sprinter when the later was in 4-wheel drive mode. The Michelin all seasons that came on it were worthless on the icy snow covered roads. Putting studded snow tires on it definitely helped with traction. Night and day difference. The stock Sprinter tires are 245/75/16s which is a very common truck size. The tire store had no problem taking them in on trade at $50 bucks a tire. Will be getting some BFG KO2s and a second set of rims for the warmer months. I wouldn’t worry too much about not having a low range. I read that Mercedes lowered the gear ratios on the first 3 gears to make up for not having the low range. Probably explains the low end launch from a a full stop. It’s quite peppy off the line, the shifting is rapid and smooth. Love the 9-spd transmission compared to the 7-spd in our 2021. Go test out the 2023 with the HO 2.0. You’ll be very surprised at how much get up and go this little engine has. The 6 cylinder 3.0 has nothing on the 2.0 twin turbo. Good luck with your search and decision
Great review! Did you purchase the 2022 Weathertech floor mats? Their customer service says "Unfortunately, we do not currently offer Floor Liners for the 2023 Mercedes Sprinter. The part is in the earliest stages of production and there is no current timetable for when it will be available for sale."
Hello yes the 2022 Weathertech mats are the ones I ordered. Called WT customer service and the person I talked to confirmed they would fit the 23. After getting them and installing I think they fit perfectly. If there are any changes between a 22 & 23 they must be very minor.
Thanks for the review! I have a ‘20 4wd that I luv luv but not having to pull over at the “perfect” moment for the switch to 4 has a certain allure as well. I look at yours and think, what a beautiful blank slate.
Everybody that has the 4x4 V6 3.0L turbo diesel Sprinters loves them which is why so many people were upset that MB took away those options for 2023. I think both the 4x4 and AWD have they’re place depending on how someone plans to use their Sprinter. I do believe the 4x4 is a better off-road bias option while the AWD is better for all around usage with a pavement bias. I’m going to be pavement bias with light off-roading so settling for AWD was a good fit for my needs. That said if I ended up with the 4x4 I would be perfectly fine with that. Yes starting out with a new blank cargo sprinter build is exciting. Full of possibilities and promise. I’ve been researching parts and looking at dozens of builds to get ideas. Hoping to build a functional (not pretty) all purpose rig that we can road trip in, use for 2-3 day camping stays and still use it to move cargo around. Just bought the first piece, a fancy Laveo dry-flush toilet which I might end up reviewing after we use it for a couple weeks. Looking at some AMP power steps and the Webasto Duel Top air/water heater, also what we plan to do with the electrical requirements. My bank account is going to take some heavy hits in the coming months. Lots of diners and flowers for the wife is also included in the budget lol
What I’m curious about is the AWD and the 4WD fuel economy differences. In 2WD you definitely have less drivetrain loss. I’m wondering if this is anything like Honda and their AWD, it’s AWD, but not AWD all the time….interested in building a van to be a ski bum and live down by the river like Chris Farley.
4wd vehicles usually take a pretty good hit on MPG. Having the ability to select 2WD doesn’t get big differences you’d think. If you have old style locking hubs you can completely disengage the front axels and everything free spins with no loss but most 4x4s these days don’t have locking/unlocking front hubs anymore. The 2023 AWD Sprinter are getting slightly better mileage then the selectable 4x4 it replaced. People are reporting in the 20’s and I can confirm this. Just did a 1400 mile trip and averaged about 21. That’s going over 3 mountains passes and traveling an average of 70 miles per hour. The van was also fully loaded with cargo for half that trip. Yes the dream of Van life. We are in the process of building ours out to do just that. An AWD Sprinter with a auxiliary diesel heating system and the basics, perfect for Ski buming trips and living down by the river or ocean
100% agreed..... trail damage is real. Guys like to build these bad a$$ rigs but will they go through the stuff it was built for? That's a totally different question for sure!!
Could you just imagine flopping your $200k built out Sprinter on its side? The hardcore adventure van guys tout these as go anywhere extreme terrain vehicles. They are anything but that but people believe them and get into trouble. I’ve personally had thousands and thousands of $’s in trail damage and seen my share of nasty rollovers Everyone says the exact same thing afterwards. “I wish I’d never tried that off-camber hill covered in eel snot, if only I could go back in time and tell my past me don’t do it Bro”
In one of your previous videos I believe you mention the Step Height was 3 1/2 Inches higher than the 4X2 vans. I am curious what is the total Step Height from the ground, especially compared to the Ford Transit 4X4? We have a 2017 Sprinter, 4X2 which I use as my Daily Driver and don't find that getting into the van is a problem. However, I am afraid the Step Height of the 4X4 would be an issue, hope I am wrong.
Hello Pat. I measured the access height based on the stock tires 245/75/16 which are 30.5” tall and stock height suspension. 24.5” to step well on the slider door. Drivers step well height is 23.5”. Rear door floor height a whopping 31” height. No wonder I was struggling to get up there and using the assist step. I can hop up in the drivers door and sliding door no problem but if you have any sort of physical restriction then I could see it being a challenge. It seems much higher then my two previous rear wheel drive Sprinters. That 3.5 extra inches doesn’t seem like that big of difference but it really makes a difference climbing up into the van. I’d say go check one out and see what you think. I am looking at some aftermarket steps or running boards to put on both sides. Also those electric fold down steps From Amp Research. My wife Ingebjørg is 5’3” and she struggles because she’s such a little gal. She is on me about getting some steps first thing and not bigger tires and more lift lol. You’ll love the ground clearance of the AWD and 4x4 Sprinters. I was always scraping the undercarriage on my 2wheel drives.
I'll side with Agile Offroad who says that with a locker, the AWD is better offroad than a Sprinter 4WD with a locker. The damn 4wd version has an open diff in the transfer case.
Yup saw that comparison review. The AWD had a weak link with a wheel lifting but a locker will fix that. These things don’t articulate worth a dam so it’s really easy to lift a wheel. Always have run air or e-lockers on all my rigs. Problem solved
MB color/code: Blue Grey 709/7709. When we bought our van we noticed allot of the 144” AWD in inventory had this color so it must be popular? It’s not a bad color. Not my first choice but it’s grown on me. People come and look at it when we’re parked somewhere and comment positively on the color. It also color shifts depending on the lighting. Sometimes in dimmer light it looks more gray, in brighter light it looks very blue. Ingebjørg loves the color so if she’s happy I guess I can live with it
Definitely the new 2.0 4 cylinder with the 9 speed transmission. Roughly about 2+ more MPG in all driving conditions compared to my two 3.0 6 cylinders
I'm not sure about those safety cameras and sensors. I rented a Jeep for St. Thomas/St John and I needed to back up into a nook. The Jeep refused to do it. I got out to see what was going on and saw I had over two feet more to go which I needed to do but the Jeep just said NO. Driving around the islands dirt and boulder roads with up to 45 degree grades and sensors deciding your fate is not good.
I hear your concerns. Being old school (I like to see with my own eyeballs and make up my own mind) in many respects I agree with you. There is allot of electronics to break and fail, your kind of in the hands of the engineers and the technical wizardry. My 6 years of Audi ownership both confirmed my fears but also changed my mind with regards to all this new tech in modern cars. The Audi and my 2021 Sprinter were both maxed out trim levels, rolling computers. Tons of driver assist and info/tainment, sensors, cameras, steep learning curves etc. This Sprinter I purposely bought a more standard, simpler model if you will to find a middle ground compromise. It still beeps and and does things on it’s own which can be disconcerting at times. For instance I’m not 100% onboard with the Crosswind assist/stability control. I guess it’s doing it’s job but it is a bit spooky and surprising when it selfs corrects. I’ve heard some people dislike it allot and wish Mercedes would discontinue it. When driving the van for this video the warning lights and beeps went off several times. Once for tipping hazard and the proximity sensors telling me I was about to hit something causing me to slam on the brakes and assess the situation. A In the end all false alarms. Overall I like the safety features and cameras in the newer Sprinters. You can’t see very well in a van and maneuvering a such a big vehicle in tight areas the 360 camera system comes in handy.
@@bobbysnow5478 Yes very sensitive. The piles of snow was setting them off. Didn’t know about the tilting off-camber warning in the Sprinter. The warning was not only a audible but written in red on the instrument screen. “Danger Will Robison, Roll over Hazard”
Yes AWD is a different beast then the 4x4. Both have pros and cons. Most people buying these and planning moderate off-roading it will be fine with AWD
We started it at temps below 10 degrees F and it started right up. Just a slight bit more cranking. I was thinking about putting an engine block heater but don’t think I’ll need it since I garage it most the time and it’s always a few degrees warmer then outside
No not in the conventional sense of old school mechanical limited slip. In theory MB’s 4Matic AWD should control wheel slippage and transfer power from a spinning wheel to a wheel that isn’t spinning. In reality there are certain limited situations where you can get stuck with a lifted wheel spinning and the system isn’t able to correct and transfer power to a wheel that still has traction. There was a UA-cam review done by a major Sprinter builder that tested the 2023 AWD system in comparison to the 2022 4x4 and pointed out this issue. They were working on a fix which involved modifying the diffs. I think it was Agile off-road but not 100% sure. I stay on pretty flat ground so haven’t lifted a wheel very often. When I did once the AWD system did perform and I was able to get traction and get out of it. In deep snow it performs great. You can hear and feel the system doing its thing and transferring traction where needed. Oh and lockers are now available for both 4x4 and AWD Sprinters. ARB makes one
It looks like the Ford transit is real lane keeping assistance ( maybe a kind of level of auto drive) by actually steering the wheel like Tesla. But the Ford dealer told me they canceled the Disel version! ( unbelievable stupid decision) hahaha
Yes not crazy about the Lane keeping assist on our Sprinter. The wind assist and stability control are scary the first time those kicked in. I suppose you get used to it. Much preferred all the driver assist in our Audi. Maybe it’s the size and top heavyness of the Sprinter that makes it spooky. You can turn it all off
Lol yeah your right, 5 or so inches isn’t much of a test but this was the max that day. However with the studded snow tires that I have on it now deeper snow should be no problem. When the snow gets really deep around here I go right for our Argo tracked vehicle. I’ve run that in 3-4 feet of snow where snowmobiles fear to tread. Maybe I’ll post a video of a 4ft deep snow recovery of a hopelessly stuck snowmobile
I have a traditional 4WD and my wife has a Subaru. For every day driving in snow, her AWD is much more practical. The reality of driving in snow country is that the main roads are often clear, and the side roads are snowy. On warmer melt days, I’ll often pass through snowy roads, completely dry road, wet roads in mid-day sun, and icy roads in the shade just in my drive to the grocery store. For real world variable conditions, my 4WD is a pain in the butt. I have to put in 4WD to get out of my driveway to the main road which is clear 90% of the time. When I hit ice or snow leaving the main road, I have to shift back to 4WD when the back end slides out or I just can’t get up a hill. My wife never thinks of it and the AWD put power there it needs to be. Modern AWD computers can make power changes in fractions of a second. Good choice!
Companies is called Hankook. Model Pike RW11. They are low cost Korean or Chinese tire company but my friend who runs the local tire shop in town recommended them because they are a good value, seem to hold up and they take a high number of studs. They did great in the snow and ice around here and look like new. They should last 4 or 5 seasons at this rate
The MB Sprinters are awfully nice. This is our third one and we have overall been satisfied with them. Pretty reliable, great mileage and drive like a big car. My only gripe is the maintenance and parts are expensive but you gotta expect that with a Mercedes. The Ford Transit and Dodge/Fiat Ducato are also nice options
It’s an empty cargo van. The empty weight is available at MB’s website. If anything it would do better loaded down just like putting sandbags in the pickup truck bed. It’s a bit squirrely but manageable driving it empty on ice
Other “traps“ “tips” for first time sprinter buyer : Choose the right paint! Choose the metallic paint! Otherwise they will just give the basic paint which you will see rust in the first year! They expect you will paint whole truck by yourself for your business.
Yup on the premium paint. The metallic paint on the Sprinter has an added clear topcoat while the basic solid colors do not. This makes the metallic allot more durable with increased longevity. Our 2008 was 10 years old when we sold it and the metallic silver paint was still bright and very intact considering its age. We garaged it about half the time but regardless I’ve heard the top coated paint on the Sprinters is much more durable/rust resistant. It’s about $1200 or 1300 usd for the metallic colors. Around here when we bought you had to take what you could get color-wise. The inventory was all preordered and you couldn’t even do a dealer order to get the color you wanted. Most inventory was solid colors. The Blue Grey was my 3rd choice but it’s growing on me. Allot of people have come up to us and said they like the color. I guess it’s in because you see allot that blue/grey going down the road. As far as rusting in a year? What I heard was it is mainly the older white vans that had paint failure in a short timespan. It had to do with iron particles in the paint MB was using. I’m not 100% sure but I think MB fixed that a few years back. They use a ton of salt around here in the Midwest and the East coast is even worst. During winter I run my vehicles through the car wash every few weeks and have rust preventative sprayed on top and bottom. The old timers say it helps. We’ll see
Sticker was $67,700 USD although dealers are typically marking them up $8-12k because they are limited supply due to production supply issues with parts. Also the 144 inch wheelbase with AWD is the most popular model
“9 out of 10 people” means it won’t work in Canada ! One big snow dump you are done for that day. 4x4 is the only solution in Canada and sad to see they are going backwards relying on those “crappy” electronics / AI/ programming normally it won’t work! And the new sprinter lane keeping function is dangerous too, I don’t know who the hell approves that lane keeping function by applying brake on one side of the truck to make it back on lane , this is Dangerous in Canada
All wheel drive is winning the war with most consumers now. I’ve driven True 4x4 with 2 speed transfer cases, locking hubs and lockers in both axels for probably 40+ years and if you told me an AWD car could do as well in snow and muck as a true 4x4 10 years ago I wouldn’t have believed you. First off most 4x4s are really only 2-wheel drive because the vast majority of 4x4s sold don’t have locking axels. Maybe some sort of limited slip but most newer 4x4s it’s an option that most people either don’t buy or its not offered. One wheel loses traction and your done. It reverts to skill and experience to extract yourself and that’s where most people are lost. But anyone that can drive a regular car can drive a modern AWD because the system is invisible to the driver and doing all the work to get you unstuck. So your typical millennial or a woman that’s never driven a 4x4 may not know how to use a 4wd to to get the full potential out of it. Hence my observation that most people are better off with an AWD then a 2-spd Tcase 4x4 because it’s just easier for them to operate. It’s arguable which is actually a better system. Our Audi Quattro was amazing in deep snow and muck. I drove through snow up to the hood with that car and it continued to amaze me with what it was capable of doing. The traction control in newer AWD cars has come a long way since it was introduced back in the early 80s. We live in sub zero temperature snow country also so everyone here has either a 4x4 or AWD. Put Studded snow tires on that Sprinter and it went everywhere I wanted to drive. It’s big and unwieldy but the traction control was just about flawless and I never felt like I was going to get stuck. They keep the roads well plowed around here so mostly I was driving on a ice-rink as opposed to deep snow. The deepest was probably 10 or so inches of fresh snowfall and it did quite well in that. I agree with you 100% that having all those computers and sensors may turn into a liability down the road as that stuff ages but when it’s working, no complaints. And this is coming from a old 4x4 manual transmission diehard four wheeler. Me! There is a UA-cam channel that tested both the 2023 AWD Sprinter vs a 2022 4x4 with the 2 speed T-case and they agreed with my assessment that for most people that aren’t planning on going serious off-road, the AWD was a better fit for most drivers. Especially those not experienced with true 4WD. It’s kinda a Apples vs Oranges situation. One more thing I will add. The AWD as designed by Mercedes is a light duty traction control system not for serious off road or deep mud/snow situations. Driving around muddy worksites, going up plowed roads to the ski lodge, maybe driving on the beach or the grass infield at your country club. That’s what it’s intended for. The axels are puny compared to my old Jeep. Everything looks delicate under there when I’ve looked at the drivetrain and suspension. I would never even think about 4-wheeling this thing hard. Your just asking for it. I have been up to Alberta in the winter and the main mode of transportation is snow mobiles. You guys get a crap load of snow. More then we do. We get allot here in north west Montana particularly because we live at high elevation and in a snow belt zone. Already some freezing temps at night and the surrounding mountains had snow the other day. Buckling down for the winter and finishing up cutting and stacking a third chord of firewood. Getting our snowblower and our 4x4s ready. Fun stuff
Papi, It’s just some random YT “test”, more of a opinion really 😎. Around here we have compacted ice covering the roads/parking lots a good majority of the snow season so it’s an Ice-rink out there. Studded snows are the way to go as regular snow or all season tires can’t cut it. I got rid of the All-seasons first thing because they were useless. Proper tires do as more or more for traction then AWD/4x4. Plenty of people with 2WD and studded snow tires doing just fine. But your right studded tires tilt snow/ice AWD performance tests for sure😉
That's about as good of a real-world test as you can get. Great job! I have the 22 MB 4x4 Sanctuary. I went out to look for the 23 AWD. But last week I found a shockingly affordable low mileage 4x4 online with a private party. In fact, it had only 573 miles on it for less than $100k. So I couldn't pass that up to pay $120k+ for the AWD 23 Sanctuary. We both did good. I like your rig. You get better gas mileage too.
I would have done the same thing as you. We started looking for a 2022 4x4 with the six cly but at the time we found those to be as much or more then a 23. The prices have been crazy the last few years. When a good deal comes along you jump on it. The 23 4 cly and 9 speed transmission are a great combination. It does get better mileage then our previous 6 cly 3.0 but honestly it’s not so huge that it would have swayed me one way or another. We don’t drive a ton of miles either. Glad to hear you got a good deal and you happy with your decision. That’s rare these days. Best
Great review, we got the 2022 4x4 and just finished our build. We are not serious off roaders but wanted to get on forest roads. So far we have taken our Sprinter on back roads in New Mexico (Chaco Culture) and also did the Schafer Trail near Moab - one advantage of the 4x4 is you can set it in Low Gear and it won't let you go to fast. I agree with you on vibrations and when we go off road - we crawl - for us it's time to have fun, pause and take selfies, not kick up dust. I do wish we got the AWD, just because it's always-on, but and the end of the day we just want to get out and explore.
For what it's worth, the 4x4 is a sub-contractor to MB that makes and mounts the system, while the AWD is taken from MB SUV's and mounted to the Sprinter.
Hello Raphael. Sounds like you built the perfect Sprinter for your needs. I see many 4x4 built out Sprinters that look ready for the Zombie apocalypse but don’t appear to have ever ventured off pavement. Total Mall-Crawlers lol. Your using your Sprinter just as intended. These are big, top heavy and semi-delicate vehicles and damaging it off-roading it past it’s limits would really be a costly bummer. Light off-roading and off pavement Exploring is what I intend to do. Adding a mild suspension upgrade and some slightly bigger tires is all I plan to do. I agree with you about 4- low, slow speed crawling over/through obstacles. The most damage I’ve seen off roading is people trying to use speed to get them through a situation. If your going to only be doing light off roading then AWD should be fine. The 9-Speed is geared low for the first few gears so you can still drive fairly slow off-road. Did not know about a sub-contractor making MB’s 4x4. I remember many years ago a German company making a 4x4 kit for Sprinters. I wonder if it’s the same company that MB used for their “factory” 4x4s? At any rate it’s a good system that seems to have held up well an is highly regarded. The AWD in the 2023s is a version of Mercedes 4Matic used in their cars/SUVs
I work out of a 2008 RWD Sprinter in Alberta ----- No AWD/4WD for me but I put on nokian hakkapeliitta lt3 tires studded for the winter. It's the poor man's all wheel drive and makes a monumental difference in winter driving.
Yup. Studded snows make a world of difference. I had Nokian studs on my Audi Quattro and that thing went anywhere, deep snow, compacted ice it didn’t matter. This MB Sprinter with AWD and studded tires does amazingly well. Feel way more confident then my previous rear wheel drive Sprinter.
Thank you for making this review!
We have the 2016 Sprinter 4x4, 3 liter engine, now at 134,000 miles (by the way, it runs just like new, never had a problem). I am a ski and camping enthusiast, driving often on snowy roads and light off road but I only needed to engage the 4x4 maybe for a total of less than 100 miles. A couple of days ago, returning to Oregon from Florida, we were caught in a snow storm in the mountains of Utah but did not need to engage the 4x4. Anyway, permanent AWD would have been preferable. The most difficult off road were I needed the 4x4 engaged is our favorite fishing/camping spot where I previously drove in a Toyota Highlander AWD. I agree with you, if you want serious off road, you buy a different vehicle. For a Sprinter, AWD would do just fine. On snowy roads, driving at higher speed, it would be preferable to 4x4. The Sprinter 4x4 system is made by Oberaigner, an Austrian/German company. It is more like an AWD, it has no differential lock, can be used at any speed and on dry pavement as well. To me, it looks like the only difference is that it is not permanent.
Initially I was dead set on buying the 4x4. The 2WDs just don’t cut it for the area I drive and activities we are engaged in. My 2WD Sprinter was scary in the snow with high probability of getting stuck. When I finally went to the dealership fall of 22 is when I found out the 4x4 was discontinued and it was now AWD or hunt down a 2022. Ditto on the 6-cyl. Your right in most cases 2WD will be fine but when you need 4WD you generally really need it. Actually just having the right tires is the best thing a person can change to make their vehicle perform as required. The BFG Mud terrains on my Jeep are terrible in the snow and ice on the roads here. Putting studded and siped snow tires on was a game changer for driving the Sprinter in the ice rink they call roads around here. So far the AWD has performed excellent, much like the Quattro in my Audi. I feel extremely confident with MB’s 4MATIC AWD. I agree that most people will be perfectly served with AWD. Either the 4x4 or AWD is a toss up and just depends on the use the driver expects to put the van through and personal preference. I heard from another commenter that the 4x4 system was developed by another company and licensed to MB. I guess it’s a hybrid of AWD and 4x4 and not really a true 4x4 but mimics the low range with some high tech hocus pocus? At any rate it works well and has been extremely popular with the Van crowd. Sounds like you enjoying your sprinter 4x4 and making some good memories
So you're saying it's still slow and under powered.
Very well done, thank you. "Not a big deal..." and "...people are used to driving in snow here ..." I love it. YT is full of catastrophy videos on pure 3 inches of snow :D.
Wow....gotta admit, its nice watching a good video from an experienced owner. My dilemma is the reliability of the MB 2.0 twin turbo diesel AWD. Im looking at buying an EKKO rv on this chasis and with a gross weight of 11k pounds should i be worried about travelling the country in retirement with this type of chasis....or do i get the FORD version with 3.5L EcoBoost V6 gas. Really appreciate your thoughts!!! Cheers!!
Sorry for late reply, somehow didn’t see this in my feed.
2.0 bi-turbo longterm reliability unknown. This engine isn’t exactly new and has been used in several configurations across MB’s cars, SUV and now the Sprinter. I’d like to think that Benz did their homework and testing but the real world owner testing will tell the story and that takes time. I haven’t heard of any major issues in the Sprinter forums. Ours Sprinter is over a year now with close to 12k on the clock. It’s been 100% trouble free so far. I wouldn’t hesitate to take it cross country. So far love this engine-9spd transmission combo. It has more then adequate power and that 9spd transmission is the best one used in any previous Sprinter. The mileage has been excellent compared to my two prior Sprinter 3.0l turbo diesel’s. Probably in the 20+ mpg range and I drive fast and hard with lots of climbing in mountains etc. Have towed a 4000lb trailer on several occasions no problem power wise. Have you considered a 2022 Sprinter 3.0 turbo diesel? Those are proven with many exceeding 500,000 miles on original engine. Also there is a gas version of the 2.0 that is offered. Cheaper and no DEF to deal with. My biggest complaint with diesels is having to put DEF fluid in them. That stuff is expensive and really boosts your operating costs.
Can’t speak to the Ford transit. I’m a Mercedes snob so somewhat biased. I see allot of them on the road and people seem to like them overall. They sell well so I would think that they are pretty reliable and perhaps a better value proposition. Also one of the big advantages of buying a Ford chassis is the extensive dealer network all across the US. There are far fewer MB and Freightliner dealerships available when traveling. I really don’t think either would have a major advantage over the other. One other thing is the Ford Transit has an extremely long history in Europe and around the world. It’s pretty much a German design and is very similar to the Sprinter in its construction. Ford finally decided to bring it to the US market. Perhaps because of Mercedes success with the Sprinter. Duh lol. Good time to be buying an RV. Hear dealerships are hurting and willing to deal and Good luck with your decision
Excellent review. Curious that you compare your Jeep 4x4 vs. Sprinter AWD. It sounds like the Sprinter “4x4” was a selectable AWD with an open center differential which could send up to 35% power to the front. Can you clarify if you think that the old AWD system is better for folks who are going “wheelin’”?
Hello XY_Skis. The Jeep comparison is a metaphor for the previous 4x4 Sprinter and 4x4s in general. Your right the previous Sprinter “4x4” with selectable front engagement and a low/high range mimics “true” 4-wheel drive. It is a hybrid system with elements of both AWD and 4-Wheel drive. Most so called 4-wheel drives are really only 2-wheel unless they have the ability to lock the differentials which most don’t. The 2023 with the AWD is much better system for most drivers, as a daily driver and casual off pavement use IMO. It doesn’t take skill but rather replaces human decision making with technology. My Audi Quattro was amazing. It went through snow practically up to the hood. Never got stuck with it. The 9-spd transmission in the 23 Sprinter seems geared very low for the first few gears. As such it crawls along pretty good at low speeds. As for actually wheeling the Sprinter I agree with most proponents of the previous 4x4 system that having a low range is essential to slowly crawl over/through obstacles and not use speed to bonsai your way though them, risking breaking drivetrain and suspension components. My Jeep’s transfer-case is geared at 4:1 and the Axels are 4:88. That effectively makes the crawl ratio something like 125:1. In 1st gear 4-low it will idle along up a sheer cliff, albeit at a snails pace. Lock the diffs and it will go places most people can’t even walk up. If I was planning to take my Sprinter off the beaten path on a regular basis I’d probably opt for the 2022 4x4. But barring a Zombie apocalypse I’m not planning on thrashing my Sprinter doing seriously off-roading. I’ve seen too many damaged/rolled Jeep’s and trucks in my day to chance it. Besides if I damaged it my wife would kill me. Where I live there are many hundreds of miles of Forrest service roads I can travel if I want to find solitude. Up by the Canadian border I went several days without seeing another soul. Just Grizzly bears lol
@@SPQR-Z That's about as good as it can be said and easiest for beginners to understand. Last week I went out to find a 23 AWD MB Sanctuary Sprinter. But what I found was a private seller with an unused show room condition (573 miles) 22 MB 4x4 Sanctuary Sprinter. For $40k less than the new 23 MB AWD. I couldn't pass it up. I like hearing that there will always be a die-hard 4x4 fan club out there.
Looks like you are in Seeley Lake, MT. Live there myself, interested to know how well the sprinter handles in MT.
Heh, I recognize that concrete wall, that's the north turnout by salmon lake off 83. Really cool seeing a review that's super relevant to me. (Gallatin County saying hello) Thanks for the video! I too bought an audi and had it change my understanding of AWD vs 4x4. Still have it - 2013 A7 w/Quattro. This review has solidified my desire to get the new 23 version of the awd system, and it is nice to know that the studded tires available for the vehicle do the job appropriately. My biggest concern with the 4x4 vs the AWD was actually the low-range 4LO gearing. From the sound of it though, it's not necessary with the more even front/rear split.
Well hello neighbor. Yup that Salmon Lake, was checking the ice to see if it’s solid enough for ice fishing. A few people out there with vehicles.
Yes owning/driving a AWD demonstrated they are quite capable off-road and in the snow. In fact they make a better everyday daily driver all things considered. Limited experience driving the 2022 4x4 but the brief time driving one and then comparing the AWD was enough. I definitely preferred the way the 2023 AWD drove compared to the 4x4 Sprinter when the later was in 4-wheel drive mode. The Michelin all seasons that came on it were worthless on the icy snow covered roads. Putting studded snow tires on it definitely helped with traction. Night and day difference. The stock Sprinter tires are 245/75/16s which is a very common truck size. The tire store had no problem taking them in on trade at $50 bucks a tire. Will be getting some BFG KO2s and a second set of rims for the warmer months.
I wouldn’t worry too much about not having a low range. I read that Mercedes lowered the gear ratios on the first 3 gears to make up for not having the low range. Probably explains the low end launch from a a full stop. It’s quite peppy off the line, the shifting is rapid and smooth. Love the 9-spd transmission compared to the 7-spd in our 2021.
Go test out the 2023 with the HO 2.0. You’ll be very surprised at how much get up and go this little engine has. The 6 cylinder 3.0 has nothing on the 2.0 twin turbo. Good luck with your search and decision
Great review! Did you purchase the 2022 Weathertech floor mats? Their customer service says "Unfortunately, we do not currently offer Floor Liners for the 2023 Mercedes Sprinter. The part is in the earliest stages of production and there is no current timetable for when it will be available for sale."
Hello yes the 2022 Weathertech mats are the ones I ordered. Called WT customer service and the person I talked to confirmed they would fit the 23. After getting them and installing I think they fit perfectly. If there are any changes between a 22 & 23 they must be very minor.
Thanks for the review! I have a ‘20 4wd that I luv luv but not having to pull over at the “perfect” moment for the switch to 4 has a certain allure as well. I look at yours and think, what a beautiful blank slate.
Everybody that has the 4x4 V6 3.0L turbo diesel Sprinters loves them which is why so many people were upset that MB took away those options for 2023. I think both the 4x4 and AWD have they’re place depending on how someone plans to use their Sprinter. I do believe the 4x4 is a better off-road bias option while the AWD is better for all around usage with a pavement bias. I’m going to be pavement bias with light off-roading so settling for AWD was a good fit for my needs. That said if I ended up with the 4x4 I would be perfectly fine with that.
Yes starting out with a new blank cargo sprinter build is exciting. Full of possibilities and promise. I’ve been researching parts and looking at dozens of builds to get ideas. Hoping to build a functional (not pretty) all purpose rig that we can road trip in, use for 2-3 day camping stays and still use it to move cargo around. Just bought the first piece, a fancy Laveo dry-flush toilet which I might end up reviewing after we use it for a couple weeks. Looking at some AMP power steps and the Webasto Duel Top air/water heater, also what we plan to do with the electrical requirements. My bank account is going to take some heavy hits in the coming months. Lots of diners and flowers for the wife is also included in the budget lol
If you haven’t done your seat swivels yet I can highly recommend the Alpine Mechanisms. Low profile and built like tanks.
AC43 thanks for the tip. I do plan on getting a swivel base for the passenger seat so will definitely check those out.
What I’m curious about is the AWD and the 4WD fuel economy differences. In 2WD you definitely have less drivetrain loss. I’m wondering if this is anything like Honda and their AWD, it’s AWD, but not AWD all the time….interested in building a van to be a ski bum and live down by the river like Chris Farley.
4wd vehicles usually take a pretty good hit on MPG. Having the ability to select 2WD doesn’t get big differences you’d think. If you have old style locking hubs you can completely disengage the front axels and everything free spins with no loss but most 4x4s these days don’t have locking/unlocking front hubs anymore. The 2023 AWD Sprinter are getting slightly better mileage then the selectable 4x4 it replaced. People are reporting in the 20’s and I can confirm this. Just did a 1400 mile trip and averaged about 21. That’s going over 3 mountains passes and traveling an average of 70 miles per hour. The van was also fully loaded with cargo for half that trip. Yes the dream of Van life. We are in the process of building ours out to do just that. An AWD Sprinter with a auxiliary diesel heating system and the basics, perfect for Ski buming trips and living down by the river or ocean
Great review ,this is exactly why I bought a Ford all wheel drive transit over a Mercedes sprinter 4x4.
100% agreed..... trail damage is real. Guys like to build these bad a$$ rigs but will they go through the stuff it was built for? That's a totally different question for sure!!
Could you just imagine flopping your $200k built out Sprinter on its side? The hardcore adventure van guys tout these as go anywhere extreme terrain vehicles. They are anything but that but people believe them and get into trouble. I’ve personally had thousands and thousands of $’s in trail damage and seen my share of nasty rollovers Everyone says the exact same thing afterwards. “I wish I’d never tried that off-camber hill covered in eel snot, if only I could go back in time and tell my past me don’t do it Bro”
In one of your previous videos I believe you mention the Step Height was 3 1/2 Inches higher than the 4X2 vans. I am curious what is the total Step Height from the ground, especially compared to the Ford Transit 4X4? We have a 2017 Sprinter, 4X2 which I use as my Daily Driver and don't find that getting into the van is a problem. However, I am afraid the Step Height of the 4X4 would be an issue, hope I am wrong.
Hello Pat. I measured the access height based on the stock tires 245/75/16 which are 30.5” tall and stock height suspension. 24.5” to step well on the slider door. Drivers step well height is 23.5”. Rear door floor height a whopping 31” height. No wonder I was struggling to get up there and using the assist step. I can hop up in the drivers door and sliding door no problem but if you have any sort of physical restriction then I could see it being a challenge. It seems much higher then my two previous rear wheel drive Sprinters. That 3.5 extra inches doesn’t seem like that big of difference but it really makes a difference climbing up into the van. I’d say go check one out and see what you think. I am looking at some aftermarket steps or running boards to put on both sides. Also those electric fold down steps From Amp Research. My wife Ingebjørg is 5’3” and she struggles because she’s such a little gal. She is on me about getting some steps first thing and not bigger tires and more lift lol. You’ll love the ground clearance of the AWD and 4x4 Sprinters. I was always scraping the undercarriage on my 2wheel drives.
I just switched from the 4th sprinter to the 2nd for that reason. The 4th is very high off the ground and it’s a long way down!
I'll side with Agile Offroad who says that with a locker, the AWD is better offroad than a Sprinter 4WD with a locker. The damn 4wd version has an open diff in the transfer case.
Yup saw that comparison review. The AWD had a weak link with a wheel lifting but a locker will fix that. These things don’t articulate worth a dam so it’s really easy to lift a wheel. Always have run air or e-lockers on all my rigs. Problem solved
Good review. What's the color?
MB color/code: Blue Grey 709/7709.
When we bought our van we noticed allot of the 144” AWD in inventory had this color so it must be popular? It’s not a bad color. Not my first choice but it’s grown on me. People come and look at it when we’re parked somewhere and comment positively on the color. It also color shifts depending on the lighting. Sometimes in dimmer light it looks more gray, in brighter light it looks very blue. Ingebjørg loves the color so if she’s happy I guess I can live with it
Thanks for your input. 😊
What about gas mileage? Which one is better ?
Definitely the new 2.0 4 cylinder with the 9 speed transmission. Roughly about 2+ more MPG in all driving conditions compared to my two 3.0 6 cylinders
I'm not sure about those safety cameras and sensors. I rented a Jeep for St. Thomas/St John and I needed to back up into a nook. The Jeep refused to do it. I got out to see what was going on and saw I had over two feet more to go which I needed to do but the Jeep just said NO. Driving around the islands dirt and boulder roads with up to 45 degree grades and sensors deciding your fate is not good.
I hear your concerns. Being old school (I like to see with my own eyeballs and make up my own mind) in many respects I agree with you. There is allot of electronics to break and fail, your kind of in the hands of the engineers and the technical wizardry. My 6 years of Audi ownership both confirmed my fears but also changed my mind with regards to all this new tech in modern cars. The Audi and my 2021 Sprinter were both maxed out trim levels, rolling computers. Tons of driver assist and info/tainment, sensors, cameras, steep learning curves etc. This Sprinter I purposely bought a more standard, simpler model if you will to find a middle ground compromise. It still beeps and and does things on it’s own which can be disconcerting at times. For instance I’m not 100% onboard with the Crosswind assist/stability control. I guess it’s doing it’s job but it is a bit spooky and surprising when it selfs corrects. I’ve heard some people dislike it allot and wish Mercedes would discontinue it. When driving the van for this video the warning lights and beeps went off several times. Once for tipping hazard and the proximity sensors telling me I was about to hit something causing me to slam on the brakes and assess the situation. A
In the end all false alarms. Overall I like the safety features and cameras in the newer Sprinters. You can’t see very well in a van and maneuvering a such a big vehicle in tight areas the 360 camera system comes in handy.
Thanks for the video!
I can turn those sensors off on my sprinter van in close quarters
@@bobbysnow5478 Yes very sensitive. The piles of snow was setting them off. Didn’t know about the tilting off-camber warning in the Sprinter. The warning was not only a audible but written in red on the instrument screen. “Danger Will Robison, Roll over Hazard”
Good perspective on the key points of AWD...
Yes AWD is a different beast then the 4x4. Both have pros and cons. Most people buying these and planning moderate off-roading it will be fine with AWD
thanks for you opinion! well said
Awesome review
The next time you get a below zero day, please do a video demonstrating how it starts, parked outside.
We started it at temps below 10 degrees F and it started right up. Just a slight bit more cranking. I was thinking about putting an engine block heater but don’t think I’ll need it since I garage it most the time and it’s always a few degrees warmer then outside
Does the system have a limited slip center differential?
No not in the conventional sense of old school mechanical limited slip. In theory MB’s 4Matic AWD should control wheel slippage and transfer power from a spinning wheel to a wheel that isn’t spinning. In reality there are certain limited situations where you can get stuck with a lifted wheel spinning and the system isn’t able to correct and transfer power to a wheel that still has traction. There was a UA-cam review done by a major Sprinter builder that tested the 2023 AWD system in comparison to the 2022 4x4 and pointed out this issue. They were working on a fix which involved modifying the diffs. I think it was Agile off-road but not 100% sure. I stay on pretty flat ground so haven’t lifted a wheel very often. When I did once the AWD system did perform and I was able to get traction and get out of it. In deep snow it performs great. You can hear and feel the system doing its thing and transferring traction where needed. Oh and lockers are now available for both 4x4 and AWD Sprinters. ARB makes one
Awesome video.. ty!
It looks like the Ford transit is real lane keeping assistance ( maybe a kind of level of auto drive) by actually steering the wheel like Tesla. But the Ford dealer told me they canceled the Disel version! ( unbelievable stupid decision) hahaha
Yes not crazy about the Lane keeping assist on our Sprinter. The wind assist and stability control are scary the first time those kicked in. I suppose you get used to it. Much preferred all the driver assist in our Audi. Maybe it’s the size and top heavyness of the Sprinter that makes it spooky. You can turn it all off
I appreciate your review; however, you didn’t demonstrate driving in 8-10 inches of snow.
Lol yeah your right, 5 or so inches isn’t much of a test but this was the max that day. However with the studded snow tires that I have on it now deeper snow should be no problem.
When the snow gets really deep around here I go right for our Argo tracked vehicle. I’ve run that in 3-4 feet of snow where snowmobiles fear to tread. Maybe I’ll post a video of a 4ft deep snow recovery of a hopelessly stuck snowmobile
I have a traditional 4WD and my wife has a Subaru. For every day driving in snow, her AWD is much more practical. The reality of driving in snow country is that the main roads are often clear, and the side roads are snowy. On warmer melt days, I’ll often pass through snowy roads, completely dry road, wet roads in mid-day sun, and icy roads in the shade just in my drive to the grocery store. For real world variable conditions, my 4WD is a pain in the butt. I have to put in 4WD to get out of my driveway to the main road which is clear 90% of the time. When I hit ice or snow leaving the main road, I have to shift back to 4WD when the back end slides out or I just can’t get up a hill. My wife never thinks of it and the AWD put power there it needs to be. Modern AWD computers can make power changes in fractions of a second. Good choice!
What snow tires do you have?
Companies is called Hankook. Model Pike RW11. They are low cost Korean or Chinese tire company but my friend who runs the local tire shop in town recommended them because they are a good value, seem to hold up and they take a high number of studs. They did great in the snow and ice around here and look like new. They should last 4 or 5 seasons at this rate
May soon is considering a van in a couple years. This maybe jut the ticket.
The MB Sprinters are awfully nice. This is our third one and we have overall been satisfied with them. Pretty reliable, great mileage and drive like a big car. My only gripe is the maintenance and parts are expensive but you gotta expect that with a Mercedes. The Ford Transit and Dodge/Fiat Ducato are also nice options
Next time you take the time to put together a vid on performance - include the load weight . It's a van not a commuter vehicle .
It’s an empty cargo van. The empty weight is available at MB’s website. If anything it would do better loaded down just like putting sandbags in the pickup truck bed. It’s a bit squirrely but manageable driving it empty on ice
Other “traps“ “tips” for first time sprinter buyer : Choose the right paint! Choose the metallic paint! Otherwise they will just give the basic paint which you will see rust in the first year! They expect you will paint whole truck by yourself for your business.
Yup on the premium paint. The metallic paint on the Sprinter has an added clear topcoat while the basic solid colors do not. This makes the metallic allot more durable with increased longevity. Our 2008 was 10 years old when we sold it and the metallic silver paint was still bright and very intact considering its age. We garaged it about half the time but regardless I’ve heard the top coated paint on the Sprinters is much more durable/rust resistant. It’s about $1200 or 1300 usd for the metallic colors. Around here when we bought you had to take what you could get color-wise. The inventory was all preordered and you couldn’t even do a dealer order to get the color you wanted. Most inventory was solid colors. The Blue Grey was my 3rd choice but it’s growing on me. Allot of people have come up to us and said they like the color. I guess it’s in because you see allot that blue/grey going down the road. As far as rusting in a year? What I heard was it is mainly the older white vans that had paint failure in a short timespan. It had to do with iron particles in the paint MB was using. I’m not 100% sure but I think MB fixed that a few years back. They use a ton of salt around here in the Midwest and the East coast is even worst. During winter I run my vehicles through the car wash every few weeks and have rust preventative sprayed on top and bottom. The old timers say it helps. We’ll see
How much cost u this van?
Sticker was $67,700 USD although dealers are typically marking them up $8-12k because they are limited supply due to production supply issues with parts. Also the 144 inch wheelbase with AWD is the most popular model
“9 out of 10 people” means it won’t work in Canada ! One big snow dump you are done for that day. 4x4 is the only solution in Canada and sad to see they are going backwards relying on those “crappy” electronics / AI/ programming normally it won’t work! And the new sprinter lane keeping function is dangerous too, I don’t know who the hell approves that lane keeping function by applying brake on one side of the truck to make it back on lane , this is Dangerous in Canada
All wheel drive is winning the war with most consumers now. I’ve driven True 4x4 with 2 speed transfer cases, locking hubs and lockers in both axels for probably 40+ years and if you told me an AWD car could do as well in snow and muck as a true 4x4 10 years ago I wouldn’t have believed you. First off most 4x4s are really only 2-wheel drive because the vast majority of 4x4s sold don’t have locking axels. Maybe some sort of limited slip but most newer 4x4s it’s an option that most people either don’t buy or its not offered. One wheel loses traction and your done. It reverts to skill and experience to extract yourself and that’s where most people are lost. But anyone that can drive a regular car can drive a modern AWD because the system is invisible to the driver and doing all the work to get you unstuck. So your typical millennial or a woman that’s never driven a 4x4 may not know how to use a 4wd to to get the full potential out of it. Hence my observation that most people are better off with an AWD then a 2-spd Tcase 4x4 because it’s just easier for them to operate. It’s arguable which is actually a better system. Our Audi Quattro was amazing in deep snow and muck. I drove through snow up to the hood with that car and it continued to amaze me with what it was capable of doing. The traction control in newer AWD cars has come a long way since it was introduced back in the early 80s. We live in sub zero temperature snow country also so everyone here has either a 4x4 or AWD. Put Studded snow tires on that Sprinter and it went everywhere I wanted to drive. It’s big and unwieldy but the traction control was just about flawless and I never felt like I was going to get stuck. They keep the roads well plowed around here so mostly I was driving on a ice-rink as opposed to deep snow. The deepest was probably 10 or so inches of fresh snowfall and it did quite well in that. I agree with you 100% that having all those computers and sensors may turn into a liability down the road as that stuff ages but when it’s working, no complaints. And this is coming from a old 4x4 manual transmission diehard four wheeler. Me! There is a UA-cam channel that tested both the 2023 AWD Sprinter vs a 2022 4x4 with the 2 speed T-case and they agreed with my assessment that for most people that aren’t planning on going serious off-road, the AWD was a better fit for most drivers. Especially those not experienced with true 4WD. It’s kinda a Apples vs Oranges situation. One more thing I will add. The AWD as designed by Mercedes is a light duty traction control system not for serious off road or deep mud/snow situations. Driving around muddy worksites, going up plowed roads to the ski lodge, maybe driving on the beach or the grass infield at your country club. That’s what it’s intended for. The axels are puny compared to my old Jeep. Everything looks delicate under there when I’ve looked at the drivetrain and suspension. I would never even think about 4-wheeling this thing hard. Your just asking for it. I have been up to Alberta in the winter and the main mode of transportation is snow mobiles. You guys get a crap load of snow. More then we do. We get allot here in north west Montana particularly because we live at high elevation and in a snow belt zone. Already some freezing temps at night and the surrounding mountains had snow the other day. Buckling down for the winter and finishing up cutting and stacking a third chord of firewood. Getting our snowblower and our 4x4s ready. Fun stuff
You lost me at the “studded snow tires”. Not a true test! 😂
Papi, It’s just some random YT “test”, more of a opinion really 😎. Around here we have compacted ice covering the roads/parking lots a good majority of the snow season so it’s an Ice-rink out there. Studded snows are the way to go as regular snow or all season tires can’t cut it. I got rid of the All-seasons first thing because they were useless. Proper tires do as more or more for traction then AWD/4x4. Plenty of people with 2WD and studded snow tires doing just fine. But your right studded tires tilt snow/ice AWD performance tests for sure😉
Красота хочу такую👍👍👍👍👍 🎀🚐✊✊✊