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The MercedesBenz Sprinter Cargo AWD 170" is a long-wheelbase, all-wheel-drive commercial van designed for heavy cargo hauling, camper conversions, mobile workshops, and fleet use. Its one of the largest vans in the Sprinter lineup and is especially popular for vanlife and expedition builds because of its huge interior volume and AWD capability.
What 170 Means
The 170 refers to the 170-inch wheelbase the distance between the front and rear axles. This creates a much longer cargo area than the smaller 144-inch version.
Typical configurations include:
170 WB High Roof
170 Extended (170 EXT) with even more rear overhang and cargo volume
Core Specs (2025 AWD Cargo Version)
Engine: 2.0L turbo-diesel inline-4
Power: 211 hp
Torque: 332 lb-ft
Transmission: 9-speed automatic
Drive: Full-time AWD
Towing Capacity: up to 5,000 lbs
Payload: roughly 3,3003,450 lbs depending on trim/configuration
Dimensions
For the standard 170 AWD High Roof cargo van:
Wheelbase: 170 inches
Overall length: about 274 inches
Extended version length: about 290 inches
Interior cargo volume: roughly 488533 cubic feet
Height: about 110 inches exterior
Turning circle: about 50 feet
What Its Like to Drive
The AWD system improves traction in:
snow
mud
gravel roads
mountain driving
wet pavement
Compared to older Sprinter 4x4 systems, the newer AWD setup is smoother and more road-oriented.
However:
the 170 is very long
parking in cities can be difficult
tight turns and garages are challenging
it drives more like a small bus than a normal van
Many owners choose the 170 because the extra interior space dramatically improves livability for camper builds. Reddit users often describe the 170 as preferable for full-time vanlife, while the 144 is easier to maneuver and park.
Interior / Cargo Space
The huge cargo area allows:
fixed beds
indoor showers
kitchens
bike or motorcycle storage
mobile office setups
contractor shelving systems
High-roof versions let most adults stand upright inside.
The 170 EXT is especially favored for:
luxury camper conversions
mobile medical/service vans
expedition vehicles
shuttle or limo builds
Technology & Safety
Modern Sprinters include:
MBUX infotainment
large touchscreen
adaptive cruise control
lane keeping assist
360 cameras
crosswind assist
automatic emergency braking
Fuel Economy
Mercedes does not officially publish EPA ratings for many Sprinter cargo vans, but real-world owner reports commonly show:
~2225 MPG highway unloaded
lower MPG after camper conversion or towing
Best Uses
The AWD 170 is ideal if you want:
a serious camper van platform
winter capability
massive cargo space
long-distance travel comfort
off-grid build potential
Its less ideal if you need:
tight city maneuverability
frequent parking garages
low ownership cost
easy daily commuting
Biggest Advantages
Huge interior
Excellent diesel torque
Strong resale value
AWD confidence
Premium cabin feel
Excellent platform for custom builds
AdChoices