Inspired by the features of a 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the new Beast MODE 4×4 combines the rough appearance and off-road capabilities with a spacious, luxurious-feeling, and amazingly designed interior. Mercedes launched 3 models in the MODE van range, including the entry-level MODE 4×4 comes at around £115,000 and mid-range Stealth MODE 4×4 comes at around £120,000.
If you're looking for a go-anywhere van model that can easily be transformed into a mobile cabin, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4x4 is probably your best choice. The van model is, indeed, one of the most popular choices around, mainly thanks to the factory four-wheel drive and a number of body and wheelbase configurations. Some upfitters build relatively affordable Sprinter-based overland rigs and RVs, others pull out all the stops.
Powered by a 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine combined with a 7-speed transmission, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4x4 can handle all types of terrain and practically allow you access anywhere. Combined with an electronic traction system, low range gear, and a 24.5L diesel tank, this camper van can tow a respectable 5,000 lbs.
Stealth MODE is basically a change in appearance compared to the basic van model, featuring a dark look built mainly involving Mercedes' Selenite Grey Metallic exterior colour. It has a classy and sophisticated appearance, unfortunately often understated. But the flamboyant Beast MODE offers even bolder interior design options, including retro-fantastic graphics and KC Highlights lighting package, with some functional improvements thrown in the mix too. The upgraded suspension, which allows for 275/70R17 tires, improves ground clearance slightly and provides a smoother ride in general. There's onboard air from ARB for airing down the tires. And there's a 12-kWh battery system with 90 watts of solar power for boondocking.
Storyteller's MODE comes at around £115,000, and the Beast MODE comes at around £140,000. Compared to deals offered by the big companies, like Winnebago and Airstream, the Storyteller's price tag seems like a win-win situation, especially considering that these are built from scratch to fit the Overlanding lifestyle.
It is essential for the best camper van to offer an efficient and flexible interior that doesn’t waste precious space. You can expect this adventurer to provide you with just that by implementing a floorplan that makes sense with a 15”x7.5” sink, a flex space with a portable toilet, a 72”x34” lounge area with a seat to bed setup, and over 100 feet of rear storage for multiple bikes or luggage. And of course, a pair of comfy 180-degree rotational captain chairs up front. Other extras you can enjoy inside include dimmable LED ceiling lights, LED under-cabinet and cargo area lights; a full interior storage solution package; 6 USB ports, 6 110V outlets, and 3 12V power ports to keep those pertinent devices running; a swing arm dinette table; BTU air conditioner for when days become too hot, and magnetic privacy shades, to name just a few.
As for its exterior, the Beast MODE 4×4 impresses with a simple and retro-inspired custom graphics package that makes it represent its name perfectly — a beast, complemented by beefy black panels and utility features that make this adventurer stand out compared to others you can see roaming the roads. However, notice there is a strong contender in the face of the rugged Lexani EXTV Kalahari Sprinter van. The look includes a rugged roof rack up top, a tubular side-mounted ladder, and chunky brush guard up front — all rolling on burly Black Rhino Havasu rims wrapped 275/70/17 rubber sitting inside the blacked-out wheel flares.