The Mercedes Sprinter 4×4 is Discontinued: Why That Matters and How You Can Still Get a 4×4 Sprinter

Photo by: Muse & Co. Outdoors

Those in the camper van world who have been paying attention to the news know that Mercedes plans to halt production of its popular 4×4 Sprinter van models.

4×4 Sprinters are a great option for those wanting a high-roof camper van capable of handling adverse road conditions.

But starting with the 2023 model year, Mercedes plans to switch the vans to an AWD system featuring a 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine. The automaker will also stop selling vans with the v6 turbo-diesel drivetrain.

At the time of writing this article in November 2022, the last production run of 4×4 Sprinter vans has ended at the Mercedes factory.

Those who want a new 4×4 Sprinter will need to act fast, as this is the last chance to snag one before they become a relic of the past.

Why is Mercedes Discontinuing the 4×4 Sprinter?

Mercedes is following in the footsteps of many other automakers and choosing to switch the Sprinter over to an AWD platform that will be paired with an efficient gas or diesel engine.

The decision likely comes primarily due to a greater demand for fuel efficiency, but it also reflects a general trend away from 4×4 in vehicles that are not generally used for heavy off-road use.

As AWD technology improves, it is becoming a viable option for most road conditions. Still, those who really like to push the limits of their Sprinter van, and those who want to have more control over their vehicle’s drivetrain, will miss the 4×4 version of the Sprinter.

Photo by: Muse & Co. Outdoors

What are the Benefits of 4×4 Sprinters?

Although improving AWD technology makes it a viable replacement for many road conditions, 4×4 lovers will argue that the system offers less control than true 4×4, and less capability in truly challenging off-road scenarios.

The primary benefit of 4×4 Sprinters over an AWD version is the inclusion of four-wheel-drive “low”, which is a setting that allows drivers to deliver more torque to the wheels during especially challenging off-road scenarios. It also offers powerful engine braking for steep descents. 

A switch over to an AWD platform means the loss of selectable 4×4 for Sprinter vans, something that the overlanding community will dearly miss.

How to Get a 4×4 Sprinter Before They Are All Gone

Fortunately, it is still not too late to get your hands on a new 4×4 Mercedes Sprinter. If you need a truly off-road capable camper van, you may want to consider purchasing one of the last 4×4 Sprinters.

Muse & Co. Outdoors currently has two 4×4 Sprinter vans reserved for conversions. These highly sought-after vans will not last long, so if you have always dreamed of having a 4×4 Sprinter camper van, now is the time to act.

Contact us today to learn more about our builds and chat with a team member about your luxury off-road camper.