Introducing ‘The Isles’ – a luxury AWD Mercedes-Benz Sprinter by Harper’s Vans & Recreation.
‘Ready for anything’ was the brief that inspired this beast of a conversion. The result? An AWD campervan that completely redefines overlanding.
From the robust exterior to the rich dark interior, ‘The Isles’ sets new standards in overland exploration. But there’s even more to this conversion than meets the eye. The technology and materials in this build are rarely seen in UK conversions.
Thanks to upgraded suspension, this gasless, off-road adventure van takes on any terrain with ease, and in total comfort. Let’s take a look…
TL;DR
Step into the rich dark interior of this Sprinter…
Base Vehicle Specification
Key features:
↠ Model: Sprinter 319CDI LWB (high roof)
↠ Fuel: Diesel
↠ Year: 2023
↠ Drive: AWD
↠ Converted by: Harper’s Vans & Recreation
Sprinter Camper Interior
The combination of materials and finishes in this Sprinter van are deep, dark and rich, but that’s not to say harsh.
The clean lines of the stainless steel fixtures and matt black cabinetry are paired with soft leather seats, Alcantara upholstered sleeping area, and dark wooden accents.
Van Conversion Layout
With adventure at its core, this long wheelbase custom van accommodates four passengers and sleeps two in a fixed widthwise bed.
There are seats for all your crew, along with ample space to store adventure gear in the open garage with its easily accessible, hardwearing slide out storage tray.
Key features:
↠ Front swivel seats (2, leather)
↠ Rear seats (2, leather)
↠ Fixed rear bed, widthwise
↠ Open garage with slide out storage tray
↠ Shower with removable toilet
↠ Removable swivel table
↠ Spacious kitchen with countertop extension
↠ Stealth table for outdoor use
Seating & Sleeping
The east-west fixed bed in this build has been given an upgrade with side flares, imported from US company Flarespace. Also known as ‘van bump out panels’, these stealthy side pods extend the sleeping space across the back of the van to approx. 80″ (5″ longer than a standard double). They are further enhanced with integral USB ports and touch-activated reading lights.
To the untrained eye, the ‘bedroom’ – and other panelling – may appear to be lined with suede, but it’s actually Alcantara – a premium fabric often found in luxury vehicles like Maseratis and Bugattis. This plush material, more costly than some leathers, adds extra tactility of this build.
The two front seats are on a swivel base, and two extra belted seats have been added, creating a multifunctional living space for lounging, travelling, working, and dining. A cab curtain from Wanderbug helps with privacy.
Key features:
↠ Front seats on swivel base (2)
↠ Additional belted seats (2)
↠ Fixed bed with open garage beneath
↠ Alcantara upholstery
↠ Flarespace side flares with USB ports & reading lights
↠ Cab curtain from Wanderbug
🔍 Click photos to expand
Plumbing & Bathroom
Located in the centre of this adventure wagon, there’s a spacious bathroom. This custom-made stainless steel unit has a removable toilet.
Impressively, a warm shower is 100% guaranteed in this Sprinter – thanks to the Truma Combi boiler (diesel variant), and an underslung calorifier.
We’ve seen the Truma Combi in conversions before – such as this super-luxe Crafter campervan conversion – but the calorifier was a new one on us.
Ingeniously, the calorifier takes waste heat from the engine and uses it to warm a 55L underslung tank of water. When kept insulated, this will retain the heat for up to 24 hours after the engine has been switched off.
Key features:
↠ ‘Separett Tiny‘ toilet with low voltage ventilation fan
↠ Custom-made stainless steel shower unit
↠ Retractable waterproof shower door
↠ Fresh water tank (custom-made stainless steel)
↠ Underslung spare wheel waste water tank (68L)
↠ Truma Combi boiler (diesel variant)
↠ Underslung calorifier (55L)
🔍 Click photos to expand
Kitchen
Super-slick, and designed for off-grid travels fuelled by hearty, convenient meals, this gasless conversion has an induction hob, powerful microwave air fryer oven, and large Dometic fridge.
The kitchen splashback is custom-made acrylic, and the stainless steel worktop is custom-made, too.
Key features:
↠ Stainless steel countertop, with wooden extension
↠ Stainless steel undercounter sink with drying rack
↠ Stealth table – for convenience when outdoors
↠ Matt black mixer tap
↠ Induction hob
↠ Microwave air fryer oven
↠ Custom-made acrylic splashback
↠ Dometic CRX80 Compressor Fridge Freezer
🔍 Click photos to expand
Storage
This Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van has a variety of creative storage spaces – great for storing essentials and keeping clutter in check while roadtripping off the beaten path.
Of particular note are the olive coloured ‘Mule Bags’ from Adventure Wagon. These soft modular overhead storage bags are lightweight – helping to keep the weight down on this camper. They’re perfect for clothes and can be removed in seconds.
Key features:
↠ Overhead storage bags (2)
↠ Various kitchen drawers & cabinets
↠ Open garage to rear with slide-out tray for a bike rack
🔍 Click photos to expand
Interior Lighting
This bespoke van conversion is well-lit with a combination of spotlights, ambient LEDs, and reading lights. All are dimmable.
Key features:
↠ Spotlights in the main living area, bedroom & shower
↠ Small bendable reading lights
↠ Perimeter LED lighting at eye-level
↠ Kickboard LED lighting in kitchen
Heating
This fully insulated campervan has a very capable Truma Combi boiler (diesel variant) onboard.
This, paired with an insulated windscreen cover from Rainbow Screens, keeps the interior comfortable, in all four seasons.
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Mercedes Sprinter AWD Exterior
Rugged and robust, this AWD Mercedes Sprinter is made for tough terrain…
Windows & Aircon
This is quite possibly one of the best ventilated van builds we’ve ever seen.
‘The Isles’ Sprinter van has half-slider windows in the side pods, a safari pop-out window on the side door, and half-slider on the opposing panel. But the showpiece is a Nomadic 12V air conditioning unit.
A work of art and engineering, this 12V A/C is the go-to for Overlanders, RV’ers, and Vancampers in the US – thanks to its off-grid compatibility and small footprint, but it’s rarely seen in the UK. A system like this can easily set you back around £5,000.
Key features:
↠ Side flares / bump outs with half slider bunk window (2)
↠ Window with opening side, privacy glass (1)
↠ Safari pop-out window
↠ Rear barndoor windows (with privacy glass)
↠ Nomadic Cooling X3 12V Air Conditioner
↠ Bug screens fitted to side and rear door
🔍 Click photos to expand
Rooflights
Further enhancing ventilation in this Sprinter conversion, a Maxxair fan has been fitted.
Exterior Lighting
Exterior lighting on this conversion has been given a boost with Lazer Lamps driving lights. Perfect for AWDs, they increase the distance of the high-beams by up to 2000 metres. With additional light bars added to the garage and sides, a halo of light can be cast around the van, extending both visibility and ambiance.
Key features:
↠ Lazer Lamps driving lights
↠ Various light bars to garage and sides
Wheels
This AWD Sprinter has Black Rhino Arsenal alloy wheels and 17″ tyres.
Other Exterior Upgrades
Echoing this Sprinter’s overlanding vibe, the exterior of this van has been given an upgrade with low profile platform roof rack, custom-made side bars, rear ladder, awning, and tyre carrier.
Additionally, the suspension has had a massive boost with a Van Compass AWD suspension package with Falcon shocks. Netting roughly 5.1cm of lift, this helps to preserve ride height in heavily loaded vans.
AWD Sprinters are very capable and versatile vehicles, however they can make for a stiff ride over small bumps, and extreme sway on uneven ruts isn’t unusual. This pro enhancement reduces the back and forth sway over obstacles, enhances cornering stability, and handles bumps more efficiently than the factory shocks.
Key features:
↠ Mule Vans ladder & tyre carrier
↠ Low profile platform roof rack
↠ Custom-made side bars
↠ Thule Omnistor awning
↠ Van Compass AWD suspension package with Falcon shocks
🔍 Click photos to expand
Since this Sprinter hit the road, a Safari Carrier from Mule Vans has also been added. This carrier adds extra storage to the back of the van.
Sprinter Campervan with Off-grid Power Set-up
Everything we’ve seen so far is next level, so it’s no surprise that when ‘The Isles’ goes off-roading, it’s with a premium off-grid electrical system onboard. Not only that, it also has Starlink – offering super-fast Internet speeds practically anywhere on the planet.
Fully Loaded Off-Grid Electrical System
Key features:
↠ 460Ah LiFePO4 (lithium) Roamer battery
↠ Solar panels – 700W
↠ 3000W Victron Inverter
↠ Beautifully organised control panel
↠ EHU (colour-coded)
↠ Starlink Wi-Fi
↠ Kicker interior speakers throughout
🔍 Click photos to expand
Vanlife Verdict: Conclusion
“The Isles effortlessly blends rugged prowess with opulent refinement. We’re struck by how well the rich, dark interior, complements the robust exterior. But more than that, to be honest, the tech in this conversion leaves us a bit breathless. Someone turn the A/C on.”
Vanlife Hub Team
From the sumptuous leather seating to the sleek stainless steel fixtures, the Alkantara-lined side pods to the practically unlimited hot water… every element has been carefully curated to create an ambiance of refined luxury. Adventure has never looked (or felt) so good!
But it’s not just about aesthetics. With ‘The Isles’ Harper’s Vans & Recreation have supercharged the already unrivalled performance of the AWD Mercedes Sprinter, taking it to new levels. The suspension upgrades and Lazer Lamps driving lights will ensure that no terrain is too challenging. Whether navigating the winding hills of The Highlands or traversing rough off-road trails, this van will do so with ease.
Our final verdict?
With ‘The Isles’, the Kent-based converters – Harper’s Vans & Recreation – are setting new standards for van builds. The marriage of form and function is nothing short of remarkable. For even the most discerning campervan enthusiast, this conversion’s appeal is undeniable.
It’s a hard ‘yes’ from us.
🌟 We absolutely love this incredible Mercedes Sprinter AWD conversion from the team at Harper’s Vans & Recreation. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
Please note: Vanlife Hub’s campervan reviews are unbiased and unpaid, offering genuine insights into the intricacies of vanlife conversions. Check out more reviews: Campervan Tours and get in touch if you’d like to be featured!
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Camper Van Conversion Ideas
If you’re looking to build or commission a Mercedes Sprinter campervan conversion, check-out these for more camper van conversion ideas:
FAQs About Mercedes Sprinter Campervans
Do Mercedes Sprinters make good campervans?
Yes, Mercedes Sprinters make excellent campervans – whether you are a weekend warrior or a full-time vanlifer.
They are renowned for their reliability, durability, and versatility, making them an ideal choice for converting into campervans.
Their spacious interiors, powerful engines, and customisation options put them among the most desirable campers on the road.
Why are Sprinters so popular?
Mercedes Sprinters are popular for several reasons. Firstly, they are known for their reliability and durability, making them a trusted choice for long-term use. Secondly, Sprinters offer plenty of space, allowing for comfortable living arrangements and plenty of storage options.
Additionally, Sprinters are available in various configurations, including different wheelbase lengths and roof heights, providing flexibility for different conversion needs.
Finally: brand. Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for engineering excellence and quality craftsmanship contributes to the Sprinter’s popularity among van enthusiasts.
How many miles per gallon does a Mercedes Sprinter campervan get?
The fuel efficiency of a Mercedes Sprinter campervan can vary depending on factors such as the engine type, driving conditions, and the weight of the conversion.
On average, Sprinter campervans equipped with diesel engines typically achieve around 15 to 25 miles per gallon (mpg) in combined city and motorway driving. However, this figure can fluctuate based on driving habits and the configuration of the vehicle.
Are Sprinter conversions worth it?
Whether Sprinters are worth it is completely subjective.
The award winning Mercedes Sprinter van is one of the most popular base vans to convert, and that’s for good reason.
According to the FN50 Reliability Index – an index created by lease companies, ranking vans based on how many times mechanical intervention is required – Sprinters are the most reliable model of van. Plus, they are the most desirable.
However, what’s really important is care and regular servicing. You could easily buy a Mercedes Sprinter that has been poorly treated and the three-pointed Mercedes star badge on the front isn’t going to save you. It’s important to do your research when buying a camper.
How long does it take to convert a Mercedes Sprinter?
It took Harper’s Vans & Recreation six weeks to convert this Mercedes Sprinter camper. It’s important to note that that’s with a highly-skilled, experienced, professional conversion team at the helm.
How much did this Sprinter van conversion weigh?
The AWD W907 sprinter comes off the production line at nearly 2,700KG, and has a GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) of 3.5T. Given the hefty base vehicle weight, it wasn’t a big surprise that this conversion was over the max GVW on its final weigh-in.
The owners liaised with Dee at Van Weight Engineering, and they did an amazing job of up-plating the van to 4,290KG, making it safe and road legal (N.B. C1 license required for a vehicle over 3.5T).
How much does it cost to convert a Mercedes Sprinter camper van UK?
The cost of converting a Mercedes Sprinter camper van in the UK can vary widely depending on factors such as the level of customisation and materials used.
On average, a basic van life conversion can start from around £10,000 to £20,000, while high-end conversions can cost upwards of £50,000 and much, much more.
N.B. This does not include the cost of the base van.
For more information, check out ‘How Much Do Van Conversions Cost?‘.
What is the difference between Sprinter AWD and 4WD?
The main difference between Sprinter AWD (All-Wheel Drive) and 4WD / 4×4 (Four-Wheel Drive) lies in how power is distributed to the wheels.
In an AWD system, power is typically distributed to all wheels continuously, with sensors monitoring wheel slip and adjusting power delivery as needed. This provides enhanced traction and stability on challenging road surfaces, making AWD suitable for most driving conditions.
On the other hand, a 4WD / 4×4 system typically allows the driver to manually select between two-wheel drive (rear-wheel drive) and four-wheel drive modes. Four-wheel drive is usually engaged when extra traction is needed, such as off-road or in slippery conditions. Unlike AWD, which operates continuously, 4WD is often manually activated and may not be suitable for use on dry tarmac.
What is a good alternative to a Mercedes Sprinter campervan?
This depends on various factors such as budget, desired features, and personal preferences. Some good alternatives to a Mercedes Sprinter motorhome include:
Ford Transit: The Ford Transit offers similar interior space and customisation options as the Sprinter. It’s known for its reliability and lower maintenance costs. Ford won the title of ‘Best Van Manufacturer’ in the 2023 FN50 Reliability Index (knocking Mercedes off the top spot. Additionally, the Ford Transit won ‘Best Large Van’ at the 2024 Parkers New Car Awards.
Volkswagen Crafter: The Volkswagen Crafter is another great option known for its quality construction and efficient engine. It offers ample interior space and can be converted into a comfortable campervan.
MAN TGE: Very similar to the Crafter, the MAN TGE is a no-nonsense expedition van, and some enthusiasts even consider the 4WD on MAN vans better than the 4WD on Sprinters, thanks to its more favourable torque split.
If you’re looking for cheaper alternatives for motorhomes, options include the Peugeot Boxer, Fiat Ducato, and the Citroen Relay motorhome (all essentially very similar vans). As larger vans, they all offer similar wheel base and height options.
Choosing a reliable base van largely comes down doing your research. Check out our Guide to Avoiding Campervan Scams to get top tips on what to look for when buying a van to convert to a camper.
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