Following last year’s concept designs, Mercedes-Benz has revealed the production version of its first pick-up, the X-Class.
Based on the proven platform of the latest Nissan Navara – which also underpins the new Renault Alaskan, Mercedes-Benz hopes that the X-Class will also appeal to urban families and customers more likely to be browsing our sister site, The Car Expert.Â
The X-Class will be available in three different models. The entry-level ‘Pure’ is targeted at those intending to use the vehicle for work rather than play. ‘Progressive’ adds further styling and comfort functions, whilst ‘Power’ is primarily aimed at those looking for a lifestyle vehicle more comfortable in urban environments.
All models will have two four-cylinder engines to choose from. These are a diesel, available in two power outputs, and a petrol engine. A V6 diesel will be released in mid-2018, promising a maximum torque of 550 Nm.
Inside the cabin, Mercedes is aiming to raise the bar for the pick-up segment, with elements taken from the company’s luxury car range. However, these touches have not come at the expense of functionality. The load bed will take a Euro pallet between the wheel arches. Furthermore, the X-Class promises to be the only mid-size pick-up equipped with lighting in the cargo area as standard.
Mercedes-Benz claims that the X-Class can haul a payload of up to 1.1 tonnes (equivalent to 17 full barrels of beer). The 3.5-tonne towing capacity is equal to the best in class, and means it can pull a trailer containing three horses or an eight-metre yacht.
European models will be built in Nissan’s plant in Barcelona, starting later this year. Starting in 2019, a Renault factory in Argentina will build vehicles for the Latin American market. UK pricing and specification will be announced closer to the local launch.