For those with a thirst for adventure that extends beyond the paved road, the Mercedes Sprinter presents a tantalizing blank canvas. Its spacious interior and robust chassis make it an ideal platform for a go-anywhere exploration vehicle. However, the factory Mercedes Sprinter, even in its all-wheel-drive (AWD) guise, leaves something to be desired when the terrain gets truly challenging. This is where the Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter Off Road conversion steps in, transforming the Sprinter from a capable van into an unstoppable off-road machine.
Last year, we put the Iglhaut conversion to the test on our demanding track in Prescott, Arizona, a proving ground designed to expose any vehicle’s weaknesses. While time constraints prevented us from tackling the entire course, we pushed the Iglhaut through severe cross-axle sections, steep climbs, and uneven terrain, gaining a comprehensive understanding of its enhanced capabilities. Having previously tested both stock 4WD Sprinters and converted Ford E350s off-road, we had a solid benchmark for comparison. But before diving into our driving impressions, let’s explore why the Iglhaut conversion is a game-changer for Mercedes Sprinter off road performance.
The standard AWD Mercedes Sprinter offers decent traction for everyday conditions, with options for standard AWD or a low-range transfer case providing a 42 percent reduction. However, this factory system has limitations for serious off-road enthusiasts. The 1.42:1 low range ratio is underwhelming, and the absence of a locking center differential hinders performance in truly challenging situations. The factory system’s torque distribution, favoring the rear axle (65% rear, 35% front), combined with the 4ETS brake-traction control, works adequately in moderate conditions. But when faced with steep inclines or severe cross-axle scenarios, the stock system struggles. Excessive wheelspin and a high-geared low range limit its ability to effectively navigate technical terrain. While sufficient for dirt roads, light snow, or occasional mud, the factory AWD Sprinter falls short for those seeking true Mercedes Sprinter off road prowess.
Enter Iglhaut Allrad, a German specialist renowned for their expert 4WD conversions. Their Mercedes Sprinter off road solution begins with a 2WD Sprinter chassis – a strategic choice, as none of the factory AWD components are deemed suitable for their comprehensive 4WD overhaul. This approach even allows owners of older, pre-DEF diesel Sprinters to benefit. The transformation is extensive, requiring the 2WD Sprinter to be shipped to Germany for the full conversion. Iglhaut replaces the entire front axle and suspension with a heavy-duty independent system, installs a new transfer case boasting a 2.5:1 low range and a locking center differential, increases ground clearance significantly, and adds robust skid plate protection. The options list is extensive, including a snorkel, front and rear differential locks, full underbody armor, and even the option to fit massive 37-inch tires, truly maximizing the Mercedes Sprinter off road potential.
Key Enhancements of the Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter Off Road Conversion:
The Iglhaut conversion elevates the Mercedes Sprinter off road capability through a series of meticulously engineered upgrades:
- Heavy-Duty Front Axle and Independent Suspension: A completely new front axle and independent suspension system provides a substantial 4-inch lift over the stock height, dramatically improving ground clearance and articulation for Mercedes Sprinter off road adventures.
- Optional Front Differential Lock: A driver-selectable front differential lock is available, offering maximum traction in the most demanding off-road situations.
- All-New Transfer Case with Locking Center Differential and 2.5:1 Low Range: The heart of the conversion is a new transfer case with a proper 2.5:1 low range ratio and a driver-selectable locking center differential. This significantly enhances low-speed control and torque multiplication, crucial for Mercedes Sprinter off road performance.
- Comprehensive Skid Plate Packages: Standard and optional skid plate packages provide vital protection for critical components like the engine, transmission, and transfer case, safeguarding the vehicle during rigorous Mercedes Sprinter off road excursions.
- Accommodates Large Off-Road Tires: Standard fitment for 35-inch tires, with an option for even larger 37-inch tires, further increasing ground clearance and traction for superior Mercedes Sprinter off road capability.
- Snorkel with Pre-filter: An optional snorkel with a pre-filter (separator) ensures clean air intake in dusty or water-crossing environments, essential for serious Mercedes Sprinter off road expeditions.
- Optional Big Brake Package: For enhanced stopping power, especially with larger tires and added weight, an optional big brake package is available.
- Optional Adjustable Coil-Over Suspension: An optional adjustable coil-over suspension system with remote reservoirs allows for fine-tuning the ride and handling characteristics to suit various terrains and loads, optimizing Mercedes Sprinter off road comfort and control.
- Increased Fuel Capacity: Larger fuel tanks, up to 170 liters (45 gallons), extend range for extended Mercedes Sprinter off road journeys.
Impressive Off-Road Specifications:
The Iglhaut conversion yields impressive off-road geometry figures:
- Approach Angle: 35 degrees
- Departure Angle: 31 degrees
- Breakover Angle (144″ Wheelbase): 29 degrees
- Gradeability (Slope): 80 degrees
- Minimum Ground Clearance (at Rear Axle): 10.2 inches
- Fording (Wading) Depth: 28 inches
The test vehicle we evaluated was Iglhaut Allrad USA’s demo Sprinter, equipped with massive 37-inch BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain tires and a suite of robust Roambuilt accessories. These included a full-length roof rack with ladder, structural side steps that double as rock sliders, a heavy-duty rear bumper, and a front bumper with an integrated winch. While these additions increased the vehicle’s overall weight, the interior build remained relatively light, keeping the total weight well within the Sprinter’s generous payload capacity.
On the trail, the sheer size of the Sprinter was immediately noticeable, especially when accustomed to testing smaller SUVs and trucks. Height is the defining dimension of the Sprinter experience. Despite its height, the Sprinter feels surprisingly stable due to its wide stance and low center of gravity – most of the weight is concentrated low in the chassis. However, the height does present challenges in tight trails with overhanging trees and branches – a good quality saw becomes an essential piece of gear for Mercedes Sprinter off road adventures.
Engaging low range in the Iglhaut Sprinter is a tactile and reassuring experience. The floor-mounted lever, clearly marked H-N-L, engages with a solid mechanical “thump.” The 2.5:1 low range ratio, combined with the diesel engine’s abundant torque and the smooth automatic transmission, provides exceptional control, particularly when utilizing left-foot braking. This was a stark contrast to our previous experiences with stock AWD Sprinters, which often struggled and labored in low range over even modest obstacles.
Entering the first cross-axle section, we observed minimal wheel rotation. Engaging the center differential lock (intentionally delayed to assess AWD performance with an open center diff) resulted in the van effortlessly moving forward, conquering the initial obstacles with only the center diff locked. One particularly challenging section involved a significant side slope, approaching 30 degrees. We tested up to 24 degrees, and the van felt remarkably stable, exhibiting minimal sway – a testament to the well-tuned suspension and anti-roll bar rates. As the trail became more demanding, with deeper cross-axle holes and soft, muddy terrain, the Iglhaut Sprinter continued to impress.
Negotiating a tight left-hand turn within a deep rut, we encountered slight tire spin. Applying left-foot braking helped maintain momentum. As the van articulated, lifting first a front and then a rear wheel, we engaged the rear differential lock. The Sprinter responded immediately, confidently climbing the earthen ledge. This highlighted the effortless capability of the Iglhaut conversion. The vehicle inspired confidence, a crucial factor in technical terrain driving, especially for a long-wheelbase, high-capacity vehicle like the Sprinter (within a 2.5 out of 5 trail rating, as per Overland Journal’s trail rating guide).
The trail presented further cross-axle challenges, pushing the articulation limits of the Iglhaut Sprinter 4WD conversion. While the suspension travel is somewhat limited by front extension and a heavy rear anti-sway bar (expected in a high GVWR vehicle), the Sprinter maintained composure. Wheel lift occurred occasionally, but the long wheelbase and effective damping resulted in predictable and controlled transitions, without unexpected surprises. The locking differentials played a crucial role, providing far more predictable behavior than brake traction control alone. In contrast, the stock Sprinter’s traction control system often allowed excessive wheelspin before engaging, leading to abrupt weight shifts and unpredictable wheel lifts on cross-axle climbs. The Iglhaut Sprinter, with its low gearing, large tires, and locking differentials, delivered a sense of composure and control in challenging situations.
The final obstacle was a breakover test, designed to evaluate clearance on long-wheelbase vehicles. The Iglhaut Sprinter cleared the 28-degree obstacle, with the Roambuilt sliders making slight contact, demonstrating their protective function.
Observing a stock Sprinter attempt the approach to the test track highlighted the Iglhaut’s advantages. The factory AWD system exhibited more wheelspin even on this relatively mild section, further emphasizing the transformative impact of the Iglhaut conversion for Mercedes Sprinter off road performance.
Switching back to high range and disengaging the differential locks, we tested the Iglhaut Sprinter on corrugated dirt roads and a short highway section. The larger diameter tires and coil-over suspension significantly improved ride quality on washboard roads compared to a stock Sprinter. While typical van rattles were present (due to the interior build), the chassis and suspension remained composed. The long wheelbase and wide track contributed to stability, even during simulated emergency maneuvers and hard braking in corners on both dirt and pavement. While not a sports car, the Iglhaut Sprinter handled surprisingly well for a van on 37-inch tires.
On-road, the mud-terrain tires generated noticeable noise and slightly reduced steering precision. However, the overall road manners were commendable, feeling more controlled and less prone to wandering than a comparable Ford E350. Braking performance was strong, and ride quality was good, although potentially firmer than ideal due to tire pressures being set for GVWR rather than the vehicle’s curb weight during the test. Crucially, the Iglhaut conversion retained the factory Sprinter’s ease of driving and low driver fatigue. Contributing significantly to driver comfort were the Scheel-Mann seats, which provided exceptional support and comfort, especially in off-road conditions.
The Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter off road conversion delivers on its promise of true 4WD capability, effortlessly conquering our test track’s lower loop. As Sprinters become increasingly popular for backcountry travel and overlanding, the demand for enhanced off-road performance, protection, and capability will only grow. This conversion addresses those needs comprehensively, providing a properly engineered and integrated solution that retains factory safety ratings and has achieved TUV approval in Germany. While requiring shipping to and from Europe, the Iglhaut conversion opens the door to European delivery of a truly exceptional Mercedes Sprinter off road machine. For those seeking to push the boundaries of Sprinter capability, the Iglhaut 4×4 conversion is a transformative upgrade, ready for adventures anywhere from Moab to Morocco.
Explore Further:
- Iglhaut USA: https://iglhautallradusa.com/about Instagram: @iglhautallradusa and @iglhaut_allrad
- Iglhaut Corporate (Germany): https://iglhaut-allrad.de/de/fahrzeuge/der-neue-iglhaut-allrad-sprinter-907/
- Roam Built: https://roambuilt.com/
- Scheel-Mann Seats: http://scheel-mann.com/
- Detailed Brochure (Iglhaut Conversion): https://www.iglhaut-allrad.de/images/pdf/iglhaut_allrad_brochure_iglhaut-allrad-sa.pdf
- Iglhaut USA Brochure (North America Specifications and Contact Details): https://static1.squarespace.com/static/59a8d6e66f4ca3085031c677/t/5dbc734489704e7f08a11d5e/1572631382180/IGLHAUT+Sprinter+Info.pdf
