Vansports Gravel-X: Off-road styling for the Mercedes Sprinter

All-wheel drive is not a mandatory requirement for the conversion

Photo by: Vansports

By: Roland Hildebrandt

Feb 12, at 4:53am ET

Comment

Styling and off-road upgrading of small to medium-sized Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles is the core competence of the Vansports team based in Neuss, Germany. Accordingly, the latest Vansports innovation is at the top end of this portfolio.

The "Gravel-X" project vehicle presented here is based on the current generation (907) Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with a high roof and rear-wheel drive. Alternatively, however, the multi-functional all-wheel-drive Sprinters are of course also perfectly suited as Gravel-X base vehicles.

Gallery: Vansports Gravel-X based on Mercedes Sprinter

Source: Vansports

The most striking feature of the new Gravel-X is undoubtedly the combination of front skirts and attachments of the same name. Their rough anthracite finish contrasts with the blue-grey paintwork, giving the Sprinter a visibly more robust appearance.

Speaking of robust, the Gravel-X parts are made of MD PU Flex plastic, which is highly resistant to mechanical influences and insensitive to moisture, UV radiation and temperature fluctuations. The Gravel-X look is enhanced by a matching bonnet attachment that extends over the Sprinter's radiator grille.

Vansports also fitted matt black side skirts to the long flanks of the Sprinter, which not only look solid but also protect this part of the vehicle, which is exposed due to the long wheelbase, when off-roading.

Photo by: Vansports

Vansports Gravel-X based on Mercedes Sprinter

An aluminium roof rack from ROAL has a similar look - about two metres higher. Not only is it ready to carry large loads, but it also has LED all-round lighting for bright (and shining) moments during night-time off-roading and camping.

The Gravel-X wheel arches are finished in matt black 18-inch DELTA Classic B alloy wheels that match the rugged bodywork perfectly in terms of finish and styling. They are shod with 265/60R18 BF Goodrich Trial Terrain tyres, which offer plenty of traction even on loose surfaces. The tyres' load index (110) is achieved by slightly reducing the rear axle load from 2,250 to 2,120 kilos.

The Gravel-X project vehicle comes with a range of practical features and options from the factory: A rotating console, 360-degree camera, cruise control and other features make the spacious vehicle, powered by an efficient 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, the perfect basis for creating a premium camper van. By the way: The Gravel-X project vehicle pictured is currently for sale.