For those dreaming of remote explorations, vehicle capability stands as a crucial factor. Venturing beyond paved roads into the backcountry often presents a gauntlet of challenges: eroded trails, boulder-strewn paths, seasonal deep-water crossings, thick mud, and yielding sand. Equipping your vehicle with robust capability is not just a preference, it’s a necessity for tackling unexpected adventures around every bend. For Mercedes Sprinter owners seeking unparalleled off-road performance and 4WD specifications, the Iglhaut conversion emerges as a leading solution.
Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter 4WD conversion showcasing comprehensive skid plates for engine, transmission, and transfer case protection.
Last year, an opportunity arose to rigorously test the Iglhaut conversion at a dedicated test track in Prescott, Arizona. This demanding route was designed to simulate real-world off-road conditions, featuring corrugations, axle-twisting terrain, and steep technical ascents. While time constraints prevented a complete circuit, the initial assessment strongly suggested the Iglhaut’s capability to conquer the entire track. Crucially, we were able to navigate through challenging cross-axle sections, providing a valuable platform to evaluate the enhanced platform and its upgrades.
It’s vital to establish from the outset that even with the Iglhaut enhancements, the Mercedes Sprinter 4wd is not designed for extreme rock crawling or conquering the most demanding 3+ rated trails in Moab. The Sprinter’s inherent dimensions, particularly its length and height, impose certain limitations. However, previous experiences testing both stock 4WD Sprinters and converted Ford E350s on comparable trails provide a solid benchmark for evaluating the Iglhaut conversion. Before delving into performance impressions, it’s important to understand the rationale behind considering the Iglhaut upgrade for your Mercedes Sprinter 4WD.
Understanding the Limitations of Stock Mercedes Sprinter AWD
In its factory configuration, the Mercedes Sprinter offers an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variant, available with standard AWD and traction control, or optionally with a low-range transfer case providing a 42 percent gear reduction. However, this stock system has inherent limitations, most notably its modest 1.42:1 low range ratio and the absence of a locking center differential. The factory system distributes torque with a 65 percent bias to the rear axle and 35 percent to the front. The 4ETS system attempts to compensate using brake-traction control to mitigate wheelspin and enhance AWD performance, but this is achieved by limiting wheelspin rather than true mechanical locking.
For moderate off-road scenarios, this system performs adequately. However, in steep or severely cross-axled situations, the factory AWD’s limitations become apparent. Excessive wheelspin is often encountered, and the high-geared low range struggles to overcome the torque reduction caused by traction control intervention. While suitable for dirt roads and occasional encounters with sand, mud, or snow, the stock system falls short for travelers seeking more adventurous off-road capabilities in their Mercedes Sprinter 4WD.
The Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter 4WD Conversion: A Transformation
The Iglhaut conversion offers a comprehensive solution, starting with a 2WD Mercedes Sprinter chassis of your choice, compatible even with pre-DEF diesel models. This is a significant advantage, as 2WD Sprinters are readily available and typically more affordable to acquire. Owners collaborate with Iglhaut USA to arrange vehicle shipment to Germany, where the complete conversion is expertly performed. The choice of a 2WD chassis is deliberate, as the factory AWD components are deemed unsuitable for a true, robust 4WD transformation.
The Iglhaut upgrade encompasses a complete overhaul, featuring an entirely new front axle and suspension system, a newly engineered transfer case with a 2.5:1 low range ratio and a locking center differential, increased ground clearance, and comprehensive skid plate protection. A wide array of options further expands customization, including a snorkel, front and rear differential locks, full underbody skid plates, and even the capability to accommodate 37-inch tires.
Key Enhancements and Specifications of the Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter 4WD Conversion
The Iglhaut conversion dramatically enhances the Mercedes Sprinter 4WD, delivering significant improvements across critical off-road parameters:
- Heavy-duty front axle and independent suspension upgrade: Provides a substantial 4-inch lift over the stock height, enhancing ground clearance and approach angles.
- Available front differential lock: Driver-selectable front differential lock maximizes traction in challenging terrain.
- All-new transfer case with 2.5:1 low range and locking center differential: Offers a significantly lower gear ratio for enhanced low-speed control and a locking center differential for true 4WD engagement, both driver-selectable.
- Standard and optional skid plate packages: Comprehensive protection for vital underbody components, safeguarding against damage from rocks and obstacles.
- 35-inch tire standard fitment, 37-inch tire option: Larger tires increase ground clearance and improve traction in varied terrains.
- Snorkel with pre-filter (separator): Allows for safer water crossings and cleaner air intake in dusty environments.
- Optional big brake package: Upgraded braking system to handle the increased weight and demands of off-road driving.
- Optional adjustable coil-over suspension system with remote reservoir: Fine-tunes ride quality and off-road performance with adjustable damping.
- Larger fuel tanks, up to 170 liters (45 gallons): Extended fuel capacity for longer expeditions and remote travel.
Performance Metrics:
- 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 evaluated was the demonstrator for Iglhaut Allrad USA, equipped with imposing 37-inch BFGoodrich Mud Terrain tires and a suite of Roambuilt accessories. These modifications included a full-length roof rack with ladder, robust side steps functioning as rock sliders, a rear bumper, and a front bumper integrated with a winch. While these accessories added to the vehicle’s overall weight, the interior build remained relatively modest, ensuring it stayed well within the Sprinter’s generous payload capacity of over 4,000 pounds (GVWR).
Roambuilt bumper effectively protects the rear quarter panel and factory plastic bumpers, featuring integrated tow/recovery points and a Warn winch.
The Roambuilt package is completed with robust side steps/sliders and a full-length rack equipped with ample Hella lights.
On-Trail Performance of the Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter 4WD
On the test trail, the sheer size of the Mercedes Sprinter 4WD was immediately noticeable, especially when accustomed to testing SUVs and trucks on the same route. The primary difference with the Sprinter lies in its vertical dimension – its height. While the height might suggest a high center of gravity, this is somewhat misleading. The Sprinter’s wide stance and low placement of the majority of its weight contribute to surprising stability. The height concern primarily translates to navigating overhead obstacles like trees and branches, necessitating the use of a saw.
Engaging low range in the Iglhaut conversion is a tactile and reassuring experience via the floor-mounted lever, clearly marked H – N – L, engaging with a solid and satisfying thump. The 2.5:1 low range ratio, combined with the diesel engine’s torque, provides exceptional control, especially when paired with the automatic transmission and left-foot braking techniques. This marked a significant “aha” moment, contrasting sharply with previous experiences of stock AWD Sprinters struggling in low range over even modest obstacles.
Left: A robust, German-engineered transfer case with a proper 2.5:1 low range ratio. Right: Differential lock controls, reminiscent of a G-Wagen, for center, rear, and front differentials.
Entering the first cross-axle section, a slight rotation of the downhill front tire was observed. Engaging the center differential lock (intentionally delayed to assess AWD performance with an open center diff) rectified this immediately, and the Mercedes Sprinter 4WD effortlessly proceeded through the initial obstacles with only the center diff locked. One particularly challenging element was a significant side slope, approaching 30 degrees. While not pushed to its absolute limit, a measured 24-degree angle on an inclinometer confirmed the van’s remarkable stability, exhibiting minimal sway – a testament to the well-tuned suspension and anti-roll bar rates. Subsequent challenges intensified with deeper cross-axle dips and soft, muddy terrain.
Navigating a series of deep cross-axle ravines began to test the articulation limits of the 144″ wheelbase Mercedes Sprinter 4WD. The first obstacle involved a tight left turn while negotiating a rut, inducing slight tire spin initially. Employing left-foot braking enhanced traction, allowing the van to tractor around the corner, rocking gently as first the front, then the rear left tires regained solid ground. With a push of a button, the rear differential lock was engaged, and the van continued its forward progress, confidently climbing the earthen ledge on the driver’s side tire. This marked a second “aha!” moment. The Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter 4WD not only demonstrated impressive capability but navigated these obstacles with remarkable ease. This inspires driver confidence, a crucial indicator of technical terrain performance, especially within the context of a long-wheelbase, high-capacity vehicle (rated at a 2.5 out of 5 trail rating on the overland journal scale).
Continuing along the trail, numerous cross-axle obstacles further pushed the articulation of the Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter 4WD conversion, showcasing its maximum compliance. It became evident that suspension travel was limited by front extension and a heavy rear anti-sway bar, expected in a tall, high GVWR vehicle. This occasionally resulted in lifting a wheel. Despite this, the long wheelbase and effective damping contributed to predictable wheel lifts and smooth transitions, eliminating any surprises or erratic wheel movements. The locking differentials played a crucial role, providing far more predictable trail behavior compared to brake traction control systems. Recalling the stock Sprinter’s tendency for uncontrolled wheelspin before traction control intervention, leading to dynamic weight shifts and wheel lifts on cross-axle climbs, the Iglhaut’s composure stood out. The lower gearing, larger tires, and locking differentials facilitated slow, controlled progress – the hallmark of confident off-road performance.
The final obstacle was a breakover challenge designed to test longer wheelbase vehicles and overland trailers, presenting a near 28-degree angle depending on approach. The Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter 4WD cleared this obstacle, with the Roambuilt sliders making contact, effectively demonstrating their protective function.
Following the low-range testing, the differential locks were disengaged, and the vehicle shifted back to high range for assessment on corrugated dirt roads and a brief highway section back to the office. The Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter 4WD exhibited significantly improved performance on corrugations compared to the stock version, primarily attributed to the larger diameter tires and coil-over suspension. While typical van rattles from the interior were present, the chassis and suspension remained quiet and composed. The long wheelbase and wide track maintained vehicle stability even during moderate dynamic inputs, including simulated emergency lane changes and hard braking in corners on both dirt and asphalt. While not a sports car, its handling surpassed expectations for a Sprinter on 37-inch tires.
On paved roads, the mud-terrain tires introduced noticeable noise, and the lug pattern resulted in slightly less direct steering feel. However, the overall road manners were composed and superior to comparable E350 vans in terms of wander and controllability. Braking effectiveness was impressive, and ride quality was good, although potentially firmer than ideal due to tire pressures set for GVWR rather than curb weight. Crucially, the inherent ease of driving and reduced driver fatigue of the factory Sprinter were largely preserved. Contributing significantly to driver comfort were the Scheel-Mann seats, setting a new benchmark for support and comfort, particularly beneficial in off-road driving scenarios.
Conclusion: The Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter 4WD – A True Off-Road Sprinter
The Iglhaut Mercedes Sprinter 4WD conversion lives up to its promise of delivering genuine four-wheel-drive capability to the Mercedes Sprinter platform. It effortlessly conquered the lower loop of the test track, demonstrating its enhanced off-road prowess. As Mercedes Sprinters gain popularity for backcountry travel, owners will increasingly demand greater capability, protection, and performance in challenging terrains. This conversion effectively addresses these needs, offering a properly engineered integration with factory systems while maintaining all crash ratings. The system holds TUV approval in Germany and preserves the factory warranty. With installation costs ranging from approximately $45,000 to $90,000 depending on selected options, the Iglhaut conversion represents a significant but worthwhile investment for serious off-road Sprinter enthusiasts. While currently requiring shipping to and from Europe for the conversion, this presents the unique opportunity to take European delivery of your fully converted Mercedes Sprinter 4WD. Who’s ready for a true off-road adventure in Morocco?
Resources:
Iglhaut USA: Instagram: @iglhautallradusa and @iglhaut_allrad
Iglhaut Corporate (Germany)
Roam Built:
Scheel-Mann Seats:
Brochures:
Detailed Brochure: Iglhaut Conversion
Iglhaut USA Brochure: North America Specifications and Contact Details
