Mercedes Sprinter AWD Variant Heading to U.S. by 2015

Mercedes-Benz is likely to bring an all-wheel drive variant of its Sprinter van to the U.S. by 2015.

The Sprinter all-wheel drive will be sold by both the Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner brands here in North America. Currently, the vans are sold in Europe with a push-button AWD system that provides a fixed torque distribution of 35-percent front and 65-percent rear.

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Replacing the mechanically-locked differentials is an electronic antilock braking system called 4ETS. Also, the Sprinter AWD has a downhill speed control system. Available as an option, at least in Europe is a low-range transfer case.

The Sprinter is offered with a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine and a 3.0-liter V6 diesel in Europe. It is likely that only the V6 will be available in the U.S.

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[Source: Automotive News]

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