by Benchmark Vehicles, an Oregon-based camper van manufacturer, has introduced their latest creation: the Deso. This all-terrain camper van is built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 170 platform and is packed with aftermarket off-road components, making it stand out among the crowd of camper vans on the market.
The Deso comes with a long list of features that are sure to appeal to adventure enthusiasts. It includes a slide-out tray that can accommodate up to four bicycles, a high-capacity rooftop and rear door cargo carrier, and a Starlink satellite dish mount for global connectivity. Benchmark has left no stone unturned when it comes to outfitting this camper van for ultimate off-road capability.
However, all these extra features come at a cost, with the Deso being priced at $395,000. This price may put it out of reach for many buyers, but for those who can afford it, the Deso offers a luxurious and modern homestead that can take them to even the most remote destinations.
Benchmark Vehicles’ main goal with the Deso is to provide their customers with the opportunity to create their own adventures and chart their own course, no matter how long or remote the journey may be. This camper van is designed to be a comfortable and well-equipped option for off-roading.
The Deso features a rear raised bed/under-garage split layout, with a large bike tray in the center. This slide-out system can securely carry up to four bikes and can be accessed from inside the van. Benchmark has also equipped the rear doors with a spare tire carrier/ladder, an expedition box cargo carrier, and a DMOS shovel for quick-access digging. On the roof, there is a Roambuilt safari rack, a Starlink satellite dish mount, and cargo boxes for additional storage.
Inside the Deso, Benchmark has focused on providing high-end electric appliances in the kitchen. There is a Breville Grind Control coffeemaker, an induction cooktop, a convection microwave, and a large Vitrifrigo fridge. The sink features a dedicated faucet for filtered water, supplied by the Guzzle H2O two-stage filtration system. The cabin is insulated with Havelock wool insulation for year-round comfort, and there is a Nomadic Cooling X3 12V air conditioner to combat the summer heat.
To power all the appliances, Benchmark has installed an off-grid-ready electrical system with a lithium battery, solar panels, an inverter/charger, and an auxiliary van alternator. For those times when the Deso is connected to shore power, there is a 30-A hookup.
The Deso can comfortably accommodate up to three people, with a single rear jump seat and front swivel seats for driving and lounging. There is also a fully adjustable Lagun table for dining and work. The rear seat can be folded flat to create an additional sleeping space.
Under the hood, the Deso is powered by a Mercedes twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, paired with the latest all-wheel drive system. Benchmark has added extra off-road traction with BFG K02 tires and an Agile Off Road suspension upgrade.
For those who find the $395,000 price tag too steep, Benchmark also offers less fully loaded versions of the Deso starting at $250,000. However, for those who can afford it, the Deso offers the ultimate in off-road adventure and luxury.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
