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What diesel engine is in the Sprinter?

The Sprinter’s diesel lineup centers on two main engine families, with availability varying by model year and region. In most current configurations, the standard option is a 2.0‑liter four‑cylinder turbo-diesel, and a larger 3.0‑liter turbo-diesel is offered for heavier-duty variants in select markets. Availability and exact specifications depend on the trim, GVW configuration, and local emissions rules.


Current diesel engine options


Below are the diesel engines most commonly offered in the latest Sprinter generation across major markets. Distinct power and torque figures exist by market and trim, but the descriptions here cover the typical configurations you’ll encounter.




  • 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel (OM654 family)

    Configuration: Inline-4, turbocharged, common-rail direct injection with modern emissions treatment. Transmission compatibility includes Mercedes’ automatic options. This engine is the workhorse for efficiency and payload balance in most Sprinter models.




  • 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel (3.0L CDI)

    Configuration: V6, turbocharged, direct injection with AdBlue/DEF exhaust treatment. This engine is aimed at higher torque for heavy payloads and certain all‑weather or 4x4 configurations, used in heavier Sprinter builds and selected markets.




Conclusion: The 2.0-liter diesel is the widely deployed, everyday Sprinter engine, favored for efficiency and versatility. The 3.0-liter diesel serves heavier-duty applications and is not offered in all markets or trims.


Power and market availability (2.0L diesel)


The 2.0-liter four‑cylinder diesel is designed for broad applicability, with multiple tuning options that vary by market and model year. It typically delivers sufficient torque for standard cargo and passenger configurations and can be paired with different automatic transmissions depending on region. It is the engine most Sprinter buyers will encounter in Europe and North America for standard GVW variants.


Power and market availability (3.0L diesel)


The 3.0-liter V6 diesel provides stronger low‑end torque and is reserved for heavy‑duty Sprinter builds, such as higher GVW configurations or 4x4 setups, in markets where it is offered. Availability depends on regional regulations, trim level, and model year.


Notes on specifications and updates


Engine outputs (power and torque) vary by year, country, and vehicle configuration. Mercedes-Benz frequently updates tuning, emissions systems, and optional drivetrain features, so exact figures should be confirmed with a local dealer or the official Sprinter configurator for a given build and timestamp. Both engines in modern Sprinters rely on advanced emissions controls (such as AdBlue/DEF) to meet Euro 6-like standards in most regions.


Summary


In today’s Sprinter lineup, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel is the standard, widely available engine chosen for efficiency and flexibility. The 3.0-liter turbo-diesel adds capability for heavier payloads and certain configurations in select markets. Buyers should verify the exact engine and specs for their region, body type, and model year, as availability and output can shift with regulatory changes and product updates.

Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.