The Freightliner MT45 is a popular Class B step van built on the Freightliner Custom Chassis platform, commonly used for deliveries, food trucks, and service fleets. The question at hand is which engine powers these vehicles.
In most MT45 configurations, the engine is a Mercedes-Benz diesel from the MBE 900 family. The exact engine and tuning can vary by year and customer, but the MBE 900 turbocharged inline-6 diesel is the standard powerplant in the majority of MT45 builds. Some older or highly customized MT45 units may use different powertrains, but the Mercedes diesel is the baseline.
Engine options and common configurations
Before outlining the typical powerplants, here is a snapshot of what has been commonly seen in MT45 builds by Freightliner Custom Chassis and upfitters:
- Mercedes-Benz MBE 900 diesel engine (inline-6, turbocharged) — the long-running standard powerplant for most MT45 configurations
- In a minority of cases, rare gasoline-powered or alternative powertrain upfits via specialty fleets
The above reflects the general trend among MT45 units; exact specifications depend on model year, emissions regime, and the fleet's upfit choices.
How to verify the engine in your MT45
To confirm the engine in a specific MT45, check the vehicle identification label or the engine badge on the engine itself, and review the original build sheet or VIN decode. Freightliner Custom Chassis documentation and the upfitter's records typically list the exact engine family (for example, MBE 900 diesel). If you are purchasing a used MT45, request the service history and the original equipment list from the seller or dealer.
Summary
The typical Freightliner MT45 uses a Mercedes-Benz MBE 900 diesel engine, with variations depending on year and custom configuration. For precise confirmation, refer to official build documentation or inspect the engine and VIN details on the vehicle.