FULL MODEL CHANGE FOR SPRINTER CARIB

The new Sprinter Carib offers the following major features.

1. Styling

   The station wagon-based body is both longer and wider (an extra 60mm in length and 40mm in width; 75mm in length, as compared with the former model, for the AV-1 model). The body's sleek lines feature totally flush surfaces and other styling improvements.

   Rear combination lamps are mounted high to make them easy to see. There are also large rear windows that provide a wide view, new roof spoilers and other styling touches to enhance the overall appearance.

2. Engine

   All models feature a newly-developed 1.6-liter twin-cam 16-valve 4A-FE engine with electronic fuel injection. This new powerplant is based on the proven 1.6-liter twin-cam 4A-F engine, that features a scissors gear between camshafts.

   The 4A-FE engine derives greater performance from the addition of electronic fuel injection, and is rated at 100PS with a maximum torque of 14.0kg-m. In addition, it features a flat torque characteristic to provide more than 90% of maximum torque at around 2,000rpm. The result is an easy-to- use and flexible powerplant.

3. Chassis and drivetrain

   All models have a full-time 4WD system, with a center differential that transmits the driving force to all four wheels at all times and promises excellent performance over all road conditions.

   The center differential absorbs any rotational differences between the front and rear wheels. This puts an end to the "tight corner braking" phenomenon at curves often associated with the conventional part-time 4WD vehicles, and enables smoother cornering.

   Two types of slip-limiting mechanisms are provided depending on whether an automatic or manual transmission is selected, to make it easy to drive out of mud or start on slick roads.

   • Automatic transmission

     These models use the HYMATIC full-time 4WD system featuring a hydraulic multiplate clutch that automatically limits the center differential according to driving conditions.

   • Manual transmission

     Manual models use a mechanical differential lock system in which the center differential is controlled by a differential lock switch.

   The construction, arrangement and characteristics of components were analyzed to meet special requirements for 4WD driving conditions. As the result, the front MacPherson strut independent suspension and the rigid axle type rear suspension with lateral rod four-link were newly designed.

   As a new standard feature, "one-touch height control" is available with the AV-II Touring Special version. The driver can select either high or normal vehicle height, by a switch located inside the cabin, to better meet road conditions. In the "high" setting, the vehicle height is raised by 30mm above the normal position to improve the vehicle's mobility on rough, snowy or rutted roads. As the vehicle speed tops 80kmph, the vehicle height setting is returned to the normal position automatically to ensure added stability.

4. Body

   Added stiffness was realized with the wide use of high-strength steel sheets and the upgraded construction and shape of various sections. In addition, a subframe is used as the front suspension support, and vibration and noise are eliminated to significantly lower interior noise levels.

   To cope with the severe environments such vehicles are often subjected to, galvanized steel sheets were used in a great number of parts. Rust-preventive measures have been taken for other major components as well to protect the entire vehicle from corrosion.

5. Interior

   The new cabin space is luxurious and comfortable, making the new Carib even more stylish. Details include full trim, extending to the luggage compartment, a functional yet luxurious instrument panel, soft texture supple seats, and total noise insulation.

   All models have an optional system combining an overhead rack and two overhead speakers into one, mounted above the luggage compartment. The overhead rack, or a storage box, can be accessed from both the rear seat side and the back door side. Together with the front speakers, the rear speakers help create a lively acoustic space. The space in the luggage compartment is used to add even more style and convenience.

Note

M/T means manual transmission.
A/T means automatic transmission.