Since the launch of the first generation Mercedes-Benz Sprinter back in 1995, there’s no doubt that this vehicle make and model has been setting the standard for large work vans in the UK and a little further afield.
It’s a van that’s well known and much loved for its reliability, versatility and efficiency, a fact that means it always features on the lists of best selling vans in the UK and is one of the best candidates for camper conversion. The Mercedes Sprinter 2006-18 is also more capable than you think when travelling off-road as CarSoup Buyers Guide details:
“This beast features a permanent rear-wheel drive system that transforms into a true 4×4 with a two-speed transfer case. This low-range gearing provides immense pulling power for tackling steep inclines and crawling over rough terrain. Additionally, the Sprinter boasts a higher ground clearance, giving it an edge when navigating uneven surfaces and avoiding obstacles.”
The W906 offers a formidable foundation for life off the road, but upgrading with the following mods is what we’d recommend if you’re looking for some serious adventure this summer!
1. Embrace the original and best
Adding a snorkel to your Sprinter is about more than just making it aesthetically more rugged and off-road ready. There are many benefits to upgrading with our Bravo Snorkel Kit, with its premium, vehicle-specific design a true symbol of adventure travel.
Travelling those off-road trails exposes your W906 to a whole lot of dust and debris. If this enters the engine of your Series 2 Sprinter, it could mean your adventure is cut short really quickly. Power loss and overheating often go hand-in-hand with dust infiltration.
Keep dust and water out of your engine, and enjoy peak performance all trip by including our Bravo Snorkel on your list of must-have upgrades.
2. Protect your W906 to perfection
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter may have the ground clearance, capabilities and fuel efficiency to excel off-road, but you can always do with more vehicle protection. Safeguard your W906’s underside with the N4 Skid Plate Underbody Protection Kit.
These 8mm thick aluminium bash guards are heavy duty by nature and a far cry from the thin, low grade steel skid plates that are found elsewhere. They give you the means to easily and simply protect your Series 2 Sprinter from damage caused by rocks and debris off-road so you can avoid costly and inconvenient repairs and recovery.
3. Upgrade your van’s shock absorbers
As you may have guessed, your Sprinter’s shock absorbers weren’t necessarily designed for the rigours of off-road travel. Match your shock absorbers with your off-road ambitions by upgrading with our Koni Special Dampers.
These dampers have been designed and developed for vans, not 4×4 applications, making them particularly well suited to a Mercedes Sprinter 2006-18 that wants to go off the beaten track. They’re also user adjustable, which means a better fit and simpler operation as well as greater control over your ride and handling.
4. Wake up your Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Who doesn’t want an exciting driving experience when travelling off-road? With better control over the responsiveness of your Sprinter’s accelerator pedal, you can really tune into the trail and customise your ride. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need expensive or intrusive upgrades to achieve just that. Simply add the evcX Bluetooth Throttle Controller to your rig!
This award-winning, plug and play device can be used to sharpen or dampen your throttle response, and unlock a long list of benefits. These include but are not limited to reduced throttle lag, better acceleration, improved overall driving experience, great fuel savings, added vehicle security, and even the very feeling of MORE power.
For further information about the off-road upgrades detailed above or to shop our full range of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Series 2 (2006-18) mods click here.