If you haven't heard, Mercedes-Benz recently released their new 2023 Sprinter. There are always pros & cons when a car manufacturer comes out with a new model. In this blog post we are going to be talking specifically about their New 2023 Mercedes-Benz 2500 4-Cyl Diesel AWD.
* There is also a 2WD Model version but today we are focusing on the AWD Model.
So is it worth purchasing the New 2023 Mercedes-Benz 2500 4-Cyl Diesel AWD?
We get that question a lot here at The Van Mart since we have been in the camper van business for a good amount of time. There is no right or wrong answer and it comes down to what you want.
THE SPECS
Let's first take a look at the general specs of a 2023 Mercedes-Benz 2500 4-Cyl Diesel AWD:
Engine: 4 Cyl Turbo 2.0 LiterHorsepower: 211 @ 5,000 rpm
Torque: 332 lb-ft @ 1,400 rpm
Number of Cylinders: 4
Transmission: 9 Speed Automatic w/ Manual Mode
Standard MPG: 14/20
Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive or AWD
Fuel: Diesel
For comparison let's take a look at the general specs of a 2022 Mercedes-Benz 2500 V6 Diesel 4x4:
Engine: 3.0LHorsepower: 188 hp @ 3,800 rpm
Torque: 325 lb-ft @ 1,400 rpm
Number of Cylinders: 6
Transmission: 7-speed shiftable automatic
Standard MPG: 14/20
Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive or 4 Wheel Drive
Fuel: Diesel
THE DIFFERENCES
The main changes Mercedes-Benz implemented in their new 2023 Sprinter line-up was the engine and drive system. For the engine they transitioned from a 3.0L V6 to a 4 Cyl Turbo 2.0 Liter engine. As for the drive system instead of offering a 4x4 option they chose to implement an AWD system.
If you are a numbers person, some stats that should jump out at you are that you will get more horsepower & torque in the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van. You also get 2 additional shifting points w/ an option for manual mode in the new 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. In a nutshell this will allow you to have smoother acceleration, higher torque and lower noise and vibration levels. You also have decreased emissions and an overall improvement in your MPG. It isn't anything earth shattering but there is a small increase.
So you may be asking yourself why would I get anything other than the 2023 Mercedes-Benz 2500 4-Cyl Diesel AWD after reading the stats. You have to ask yourself what type of terrain you will be traveling on and how often do you think you will need to get out of/push through tough terrain.
IS USED THE RIGHT OPTION?
If you are an off-road enthusiasts and love going off the grid you may want to consider the 2022 or older 4x4 Sprinters. The reason why an older 4x4 Sprinter may be preferred by people who go off the grid is because they are better at getting through tough terrain. They do this more effectively because when you activate the 4x4 system the wheels rotate at different speeds, which increases your capabilities of getting out of tough terrain due to higher traction and torque.
The New 2023 Mercedes-Benz AWD Sprinters automatically sends up to 50 percent of torque to the front wheels when necessary, meaning the wheels rotate at the same speed giving you less traction & torque than the older 4x4 Sprinters.
Another reason why you may want to look into the older 4x4 Sprinters is due to their higher resale value and this is because of limited production quantity and high demand.
THE PRICE DIFFERENCE
Let's first take a look at the general price of a 2023 Mercedes-Benz 2500 4-Cyl Diesel AWD. The MSRP is about $62,000 and varies based on upgrade packages. If that price is out of your budget and you don't necessarily care about the improvements, looking into a used 2022 and older Mercedes-Benz Sprinter may be in your best interest. You are still going to get a powerful, easy driving & well equipped vehicle out from the older models minus a few of the new bells and whistles.
One thing to note, when buying used, you do take on the vehicle with a reduced warranty meaning, you buy a 2021, you may have 1 year and 12,000 miles left of that warranty as opposed to a new vehicle, you get the full 3 year 36,000 mile warranty.
AVERAGE COST OF A MB SPRINTER
Let's look at a used 2022 Mercedes-Benz 2500 V6 Diesel 4x4 that has roughly 20,000 miles. That has an average MSRP of $50,000. The prices will increase or decrease based on the year of the vehicle, mileage and upgrade packages.
WHAT WOULD WE DO?
If you have a little bit more of a budget and are looking for the best overall ride we would choose the new 2023 Mercedes-Benz 2500 4-Cyl Diesel AWD. However if are looking to save a little bit of money and tend to travel off the grid and through rough terrain we may lean towards the older Mercedes-Benz 2500 V6 Diesel 4x4.
AFTER I PURCHASE MY SPRINTER VAN WHAT NEXT?
If you decided on a cargo van and are looking to convert it into a camper van then finding an expert up-fitter (van builder) is your next step if you don't plan to do a DIY van build.
Do you recommend an expert up-fitter?
We highly recommend looking into Vanspeed, "The One-Stop Shop for Mercedes Sprinter Van Builds" as stated in this article by Motor Trend.
Vanspeed was founded on a passion for travel and action sports, which is what drives their commitment to create spec-built vans that seamlessly transition into nature. They understand the importance of having a vehicle that not only performs well but also reflects your unique style and personality. This is why they take great pride in crafting vans that cater to their customers needs and desires.
Learn more here:
NEED A LITTLE MORE GUIDANCE?
You can also book a consultation below with one of our van experts who can help guide you in the right direction:
If you have any other questions about this blog feel free to hit us up on the chat box or you can call us anytime Mon-Fri 9am-5pm PST (657) 227-8433
Hope to see you out on the road!
Safe & Happy Travels
-The Van Mart Team