However, Mercedes-Benz has shown its four-wheel-drive Sprinter and Vito vans are up to the challenge after two factory-backed models finished the Rally Aicha des Gazelles in Morocco.
The vans, driven by female Mercedes employees (the rally is only open to women), were essentially standard except for a few minor modifications.
The larger Sprinter is propelled by a V6 turbo diesel engine, while the Vito uses a four-cylinder diesel. More than 300 women took part in the 2500km rally that raises money for under-privileged people in Morocco.