Hymer 4x4 CrossOver. RVs for hard core offroading and elegant vanlife.

This is the Hymer 4x4 CrossOver, RVs designed for hard off roading but inside look elegant and stylish!
Hymer has offered an optional four-wheel drive system for many years, now we have the Hymer 4x4 CrossOver. It is now offering two of its vehicles as “CrossOver” edition models. As a result, the semi-integrated Hymer ML-T 570 and the Hymer Grand Canyon S camper van on a Mercedes-Benz chassis are getting an off-road upgrade featuring a high-traction four-wheel drive system as standard. Standard equipment will also include solar which the company says will help to increase self-sufficiency to up to 10 days.
As you can see, the exterior design of these models has a definite off-road look with “CrossOver” design graphics. This look is enhanced by the four-wheel drive, as well as the 40cm, 16-inch all-terrain tyres and the LED light bar above the cab. A unique highlight on the exterior of the ML-T is the spare wheel on the outer rear wall, as well as the roof rack with rear ladder. In addition to their striking design, the CrossOver models also have a large number of sophisticated technical features. The nine-centimetre suspension lift ensures better clearance when off-roading and reduces the risk of grounding the vehicle. The gear reduction of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter also has very good traction, even on uphill inclines and downhill slopes - aided by the intelligent 4ETS traction system, which uses electronic rather than mechanical differential locks.
The characteristic design is continued in the interior in the form of the new anthracite-coloured overhead locker doors, as well as a new grey table and counter surface finish that has been added in the Hymer ML-T 570. There are net pockets underneath the overhead lockers. There is also a toolkit including a folding spade and axe and there is also an optional safe which can be integrated into the passenger seat console of Grand Canyon S and ML-T 570 and protects personal valuables with a steel housing and 3-bolt security lock.
The MLT570 has the German layout, two single beds which can be joined. The beds feature a disc-spring sleeping system. The bathroom and kitchen adjoin the sleeping area. The kitchen has a 152-litre refrigerator. The seating area is in an L shape meaning you can keep your feet up whilst in the forward facing bench. The driver’s seat can be converted into an extra berth at the front of the vehicle with the help of an additional cushion. There is also a six kilowatt diesel heater with an electric bar heater, as well as an altitude kit that enables the heating to continue to be used at altitudes of over 1,500 metres. A battery package is also included, which consists of the HYMER Smart Battery System with two lithium batteries and an inverter. For its self-sufficient energy supply, the ML-T 570 “CrossOver” features a solar installation with a capacity of two times 90 watts on the roof.
The sleeping area of the he Grand Canyon S “CrossOver” features disc-spring bed frames and cold foam mattresses and there is also a pop-top roof as an option. In the kitchen one finds a 90-litre refrigerator with freezer compartment, as well as an extendable kitchen counter. The integral-look, original Mercedes-Benz comfort seats are also available with a leather finish as an option. Just like the ML-T 570 “CrossOver”, the Grand Canyon S also features an autonomy package as standard. In addition to the six kilowatt diesel heater with an electric bar heater and the altitude kit, this model also features a solar installation with a capacity of 90 watts on the roof as well as the Hymer Smart Battery System. An additional option is a Mobicool cool box which is housed in the pull-out storage space on the rear bed and can be taken out whenever it is needed.
I live in a motorhome and travel around Europe in it. I spend most of my time in Poland, Germany and Italy. Vanlife is my life. In my KZbin channel, I present the places I have been to, pieces of information related to vanlife and reviews of recreational vehicles. Here you will find campervans and motorhomes from various companies including Hobby, Hymer, Carthago, Westfalia, Clever Vans, Pössl, Bürstner, Niesmann Bischoff, Reisemobil Manufaktur, Trigano, Laika, Forster, Mobilvetta Design, Affinity, Globe Traveller, Benimar, Roller Team, Adria, Tourne, Megamobil, VW, Mercedes, CS, Renault, Ford, Fiat, Carado, Sunlight, Baileys, Chausson, Balcamp and others.

[@mariocooke5463]

thank you. now I have to go back and watch your video again.

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Thanks for being at the premiere Mario!

[@mariocooke5463]

@@VanlifewithAlan always a pleasure, Alan. Nice bunch of followers.

[@VanlifewithAlan]

@@mariocooke5463 Yes indeed, a nice group.

[@Latingent50]

Both vehicles are great. Maybe with no stripes or decorations outside, just a single color all around, the more discrete and less eye catching the better. Inside, they're perfect just as they are, no need to start hanging pots with plants and other ridiculous junk to make it look like a house, because it's NOT a house, it's a vehicle, and zero extra clutter is the way to go.

[@donpnz]

Both look fantastic and super functional !

[@VanlifewithAlan]

It really is!

[@philwilliams3639]

I personally like both of them,brilliant vehicles!!

[@constructioneerful]

Love the ml-t570

[@greenjacket66]

these are very nice

[@irishman3375]

my favorite, if I can find one in the states, I'LL BUY IT!

[@landy660]

Saw that the other day on the Hymer site. Very ,very nice. A little steep on the price for the semi integrated, but you can travel almost anywhere in rather good comfort. Thumbs up from me !!

[@JonSnow-bc6ro]

Nice video and the two vans looked very good

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Thanks 👍

[@rosswhittleton6277]

They're all you need really.

[@robinlarabi]

Love your videos Alan!

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Thanks Robin!

[@ted-c-n9p]

Absolutely gorgeous vehicles! Although… Loading and unloading the steel gas bottles in the mlt crossover would be quite a challenge at that hight. Could you film that please?

[@VanlifewithAlan]

I don't think it is too difficult Ted comparitively speaking !

[@ted-c-n9p]

@@VanlifewithAlan Have you seen the high of the door for the gas bottles? And they’re two in depth. You have to take out the outer one to get to the inner one. Would have thought they could slide out on a sledge which would have been great :-)

[@mikedevere]

I really appreciate the concept and external dimensions of the ML-T crossover. On the face of it, it's almost exactly what I am looking for. Only the interior layout is too restricted. If they offered it with rear garage/ wardrobe/ toilet area + mid kitchen, front lounge with drop down bed over that - I'd be there!! That design was originated by Hymer, I believe and is currently available in the likes of Bürstner lyseo or on the Silver Dream

[@diggy4963]

I would buy one tomorrow if it was in the states.

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Maybe it will be soon.

[@spiros06]

My dream is to buy a Hymer MLT580 4X4 one day

[@BeverlyDillon2]

Ride and look good out side need some decorating on the inside

[@RobertoBuri]

Sprinter 5,5 meters with Oberaigner System is my dream. Ciao Alan.

[@jetblackjk]

😍😍❤️💕👌🏼👌🏼woww... Beautiful

[@startaylor123]

Stunning van and vlog 👌🍾

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Thank you 🙌 Star!

[@jamiep61]

I enjoyed watching the Video 😁

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Great to read Jamie!

[@shughalonly4724]

For me, only adding a drop down bed or providing a option of converting the sitting area into second bed would make it perfect...right now it is a restricted one for a family of 4

[@josh_bfc_2769]

This van is presented as a three berth. Do you have a link to a presentation of the third bed being made up

[@lolavan7750]

Like the idea of 4x4 but wonder how often it's necessary, think I'll be sticking with my MLT630 for now.

[@VanlifewithAlan]

On the snow or off road it would be handy.

[@gooble69]

I live in Australia where 80% of the roads outside the cities are unsealed. This is almost the perfect motorhome.

[@heikekarina3963]

Super Video! Super musik! Whats the name of the music from the beginning? Thank you!

[@robertlynn7332]

Nice vehicles, but is 1500m really the limit on a "high altitude" heating system? I live at roughly 1400m and am only 100m above the valley floor. Most of the best off road camping is way above us. BTW is the Grand Canyon on a 600cm basis?

[@horizon42q]

Top notch

[@robertcarchietta758]

Were can i buy one of these

[@VanlifewithAlan]

You could try a Hymer dealer Robert!

[@paulstokes2644]

Hi is the Grand Canyon crossover maxi on the fiat ducato chassis the same spec interior as this or more basic. I can only find 1 in depth video and the is only on the Yosemite.

[@Frankiez220]

Alan Where can I get parts for a campervan like what Hymer use?

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Have a look at the catalogues such as Frankana, Movera, Reimo etc.. That is where Hymer gets its stuff from!

[@deanwright545]

Good video. I brought my new sprinter mlt580 last year from watching your videos on them. And love it. goin to put some Bfg tyres on it soon it’s not 4x4 as price difference is massive and in my opinion not worth the extra unless going on full off road expedition all the time

[@AkiroHaru]

O bicho é bruto

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Que bicho?

[@AkiroHaru]

@@VanlifewithAlan it's just an expression in Portuguese kkkkkkkkk

[@AkiroHaru]

@@marcosruiz167 e ai como vai ? O meu sonho é ter esse hymer 580 4x4

[@AkiroHaru]

@@marcosruiz167 sim, sou do Brasil. Curto o estilo do motohome europeu

[@Frankiez220]

If it comes with a folding spade and axe I’ll have one please. Joking aside it is only for the elite few.

[@robertcoren7318]

Surprised that the solar panels are small capacity compared to North American models.

[@douglashouston81]

Smaller van for me Alan, I'm useless at parking 😜 Thanks

[@annic7995]

I've been known to knock down signs and fences aksidently. What's one more with this beauty. 😁

[@douglashouston81]

@@annic7995 ha ha for sure

[@VanlifewithAlan]

I am not much good either - which is ironic as when I started driving I was noted for being able to get into any space!

[@douglashouston81]

@@VanlifewithAlan have a great week Alan

[@peterebel7899]

Those are not for parking but for driving ....

[@Photostoryhr]

Hi Alen, how are you dealing with electricity in winter months? Are you always on EHU? How long can you be off-grid? Thanks

[@VanlifewithAlan]

I can be off grid from March to October if necessary - depending on the weather of course. I am now on EHU in order to heat the van.

[@IMP3TIGO]

That paint job with the fluorescent green "X" though... yikes. Prefer the Free 600 interior design more than the Grand Canyon S though, with the fridge cabinet that goes up to the headliner and creates a better separation of the sleeping area from the rest of the cabin.

[@shughalonly4724]

Alan thanks a lot for the great review ...like always...do you think the rear over hang will be a problem at off roading for 570 ?

[@VanlifewithAlan]

I don't know. It depends where you intend to take it I think!

[@shughalonly4724]

@@VanlifewithAlan indeed ... I foresee as a bit of restriction for a true 4x4 ... looking up for more stuff from you

[@KD-fc2xs]

Hello, we have had such a vehicle since 11-2022. Yes, it looks great, but it also has a whole bunch of room for improvement that should be implemented urgently. Above all, the fact that the MBUX does NOT take into account the dimensions of the vehicle and its 4.1 t permissible total weight when calculating the navigation route. Only the Mercedes me app can do that, which costs extra, and which the navigation has to run through so that it can then be transferred to the MBUX. Something very awkward. In addition, the standard Sprinter is installed here, which has no side assist (or blind spot assistant). Furthermore, the sprinter has nothing to do with the structure. So that means that there is a key for the Sprinter and extra keys for the structure. Now I come to the control options for the Truma heating, the water pump switch, the control panels for the solar cells. So, Truma heating control where it belongs: above the front door. Water pump switch: Installed in the bathroom cabinet (Where please???). Control panels for the solar cells: In the cupboard above the table (Where please???). Incidentally, our water pump in the body was already broken 3 times and had to be replaced. Oh yes: Stone chips on the body from the front wheels: Hymer didn't install anything here. So look forward to expensive painting work if I don't retrofit the front mud flaps myself. Access to the fresh water tank or the stopcocks for fresh water: Installed in the center of the rear garage behind a flap. Super difficult to access, especially when you have the rear garage loaded. And if you want to drain fresh water, e.g. in the winter: turn on the tap at the back, turn the tap in the right corner in the electrical box by 90°, open the tap behind it as well. And that is where? Well, that's what we were looking for - because after the 2-hour briefing we had forgotten half of it. And if you turn the driver's seat, you can't do that by 180°, but up to 120°, since the L-bench is in the way. Who designed that??? Yes, all in all a nice vehicle, but it has a lot of optimization potential.

[@ctahir8539]

Any idea how much lift has it had

[@VanlifewithAlan]

10cm - I think I say that in the video.

[@cityclinics6665]

Does the Crossover differ from a Mercedes Grand Canyon S with 4 wheel drive as an extra?

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Apparently the 4x4 kit is different (I don't see how) and it has got some stickers on the side.

[@cityclinics6665]

@@VanlifewithAlan Thanks Alan. Really enjoyed listening to your comments.

[@carl5481]

Wow, not going to bother looking at the cost 🤣 If I was spending that amount would go for the coach built rather than van. The high altitude kit helps it burn cleaner apparently, it will still work without it but can cause damage if your using it high up for long periods. There is no definitive answer as to how long being up high causes issues from what I've seen. The odd night or weekend would be ok I expect, but weeks up high might start to be an issue.

[@epicscoreCS2]

Maybe upgrade the solar from 180 to 300? Would pay more for more battery and solar. They should at least have it as an option to upgrade the systems, photographers etc wants more power in there travel rig to charge equipment.

[@VanlifewithAlan]

That would not be much of a power drain compared to things like the TV, fridge etc.. I have 250A of LiFePO4 and that is enough for me.

[@mac22011964]

Love the MLT.....we have a 4x4 Mercedes 170 camper van and used the AWD quite allot in 2019 in the Alps and allot in Romania, Greece and Turkey. Also pulled a few people out of wet grass campsites. BUT I would agree that if you are summer camping and staying in Aires and campsites then it is an unnecessary expense at c. £10k.

[@fraserhardmetal7143]

If the normal construction methods apply to these vehicles I would be reluctant to take them out of the car park. My last two vans gradually disintegrated after the squeaky rattly honeymoon period of about 10 trips. An off road vehicle needs to be just that - not a normal offering with a bit of a 4x4 option and bigger tyres . I bet the interior fixtures and fittings aren't offroad either. Are the cupboards labelled 4x4 - I guess they aren't. Next time you see them Alan , ask them this - The promise of capabilty goes up commensurate with the price , yet quality remains unimproved and caravanesque - where's the improvement ? Great videos and content - :-)

[@cnrom]

As i dream of a camper van but don't own one, can i ask you how do you mean "disintegrated"? What failed or started to fail? and in what kind of use? I was thinking to replace my car with a camper van but that means it should have a life of 300k-400k km which is as much as my humble Jimny has right now and still goes without troubles, isn't this a reasonable expectation for a commercial vehicle with a big diesel engine?

[@fraserhardmetal7143]

@@cnrom The build quality is not appropriate for a motor vehicle. Meaning the construction methods are suitable for a caravan not a road going vehicle. In my case the squeaks and rattles eventually turned into failure of components within the vehicle. The build quality may be appropriate for intermittent use of a towed vehicle - not the daily use of an occupied method of transport.

[@carl5481]

I've watched this several times, found out the price and now wondering the feasibility 🤦‍♂️ I was happy with a £65k Adria Compact and now you have my dreaming of this MLT crossover at £117k 🤣😬 lots of things I like on this, one is not many vans seem to have the Truma diesel heating and are available to buy this year, I know you can spec Hymers to have it but that's an 18 month wait. I'm already fed up with LPG for heating in the winter. I've already twice this winter got stuck on snow. But do you think it's crazy paying this kind of money?

[@VanlifewithAlan]

I can't answer that question Carl. It depends on how much disposable income you have. It is a question of two Adrias or this one. If I had to make that decision I would go for the Hymer and get it financed, or get an older one. As for 4x4, I think I would prefer it but how often would I use it given that I usually go south for the winter. I will put another video of the Adria Compact up this week - I will try for Friday - this is a longer video with my opinion in it.

[@carl5481]

@@VanlifewithAlan Styling of the interior is big for me, and all the use Hymers 2+ years old just don't do it for me. Beige, cream etc aimed at older perhaps German market. Only really the new ones in Hymers where they seem to be making the interior more stylish and modern. Would you agree? This seems to be for a lot of manufacturers. Adria have got the modern look done well. I think the more modern ones will hold value better over the years for the new generation of buyers in my opinion. But yes this problem is why Hymer so costly for me. Anything older 2 years+ I just don't like the interior 😟 Very rarely see 1 year old ones, so end up looking new.

[@stevebain8530]

I’ve been trying to find one of the Hymer 4x4 780MLT for more than 7 months anywhere in Europe. If you can direct me to a dealer with stock I would greatly appreciate it. As far as I can tell no stock until September 2022...maybe.

[@VanlifewithAlan]

I agree, the word stock does not appear in current RV terminology. Perhaps you can find a used vehicle?

[@mariocooke5463]

In America, it would cost nearly $200 K.

[@annic7995]

Yep!

[@VanlifewithAlan]

It won't be far off it here. I think we can assume around EUR125k.

[@annic7995]

😍

[@cristianm-uv9up]

the small one is a beauty but no black exterior and no flashy signs for me. black might look good but it is unpractical. a vehicle supposed to go off road will be all scratches from bushes and trees within one year (I have a silver one and I know from personal experience) and while camping in a black vehicle at 40 Celsius you will be able to cook a meal without starting your cook top.

[@VanlifewithAlan]

I would hope that the insulation gives some protection.

[@pauloinavan1336]

Very interesting videos as always Alan,the usual superb Homer build quality and innovation,on the subject of beds we all have our presences,I had a French bed on my 2016 7M Swift motorhome,which although comfortable I found rather restrictive and something of a waste of space.During UK lockdown 1 I decided to redesign the interior and among other changes I built a Murphy type double bed crossways in the van which has proved to be exceptionally comfortable as well as space saving.Would welcome Your opinion I put a brief van tour on my channel

[@johnkennedy8363]

I think both are >3.5 ton vehicles and need a special licence (in Europe).

[@235x16]

pour nous le grand canyon s v6 et boite auto est commander mais il existe un probleme de frein a main electrique et la livraison debut mars est compromise . mercedes n'a pas trouver la solution a ce jour !!! c'est un probleme de fuite des etriers de frein arriere (donc danger)

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Merci de me dire - ca je ne savais pas!

[@gariksia389]

Обзор безусловно хороший, но почему о водительском месте ничего не сказано, какие помощники водителю, чем отличаются одна комплектация от другой и многое другое не рассказано то, что действительно интересует и пригодится в путешествие водителю???.... Обзор я считаю не полный!

[@kevinmitchell5159]

Whilst the Grand Canyon S crossover looks like an interesting vehicle the lack of an option for a roof rack greatly limits its use for longer expeditions, or where you want to carry longer objects such as sea canoes. More accurately, the base vehicle can easily support something like a Frontrunner rack, but Hymer refuses to fit the rails it would need at build time. And trying to retrofit such rails feels like it would be a nightmare once all the insulation, headlining and overhead cabinets are in place. So that unfortunately rules out the Grand Canyon. Can anyone suggest an alternative with similar specs that would be worth considering? I.e. 4x4, 4 seats when driving, two berths, internal storage for at least folding bikes, a roof rack option and properly winterised with a high degree of insulation so it can be used comfortably in winter conditions without tanks, or people, freezing.

[@peterebel7899]

This is not made for America.

[@lucianbogdan3777]

But nothing for families with four people...only fwd

[@ellenkellett6529]

See you laters Alan

[@2012escapee1]

Dirt roads are not off road. They don't have enough ground clearance to be off road

[@gooble69]

Well actually they are. I live in Australia, we have tonnes of roads that you can't drive on with 2WD that this vehicle will have no problems with. Sure you aren't going rock hopping with it, but it opens up a lot of fire trails and rock/dirt track that a 2WD would get bogged on.

[@peterebel7899]

@@motolover5697 Iceland F roads are not for those kinds of vehicles, you need much more fording depth. especially the 570 has a very low mounted battery system which will be flooded in Iceland.

[@доктор-вонючая-морковь]

Voiceover video with no substance

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Meaning?

[@andrewyarnot5911]

Weak presentation

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Weak comment.