The Mercedes-Benz X-Class is the German auto giant’s entry into the lifestyle ute market that is predicted to grow to globally. By blending European refinement and luxury with the predominantly industrial focused ute platform Mercedes are aiming to produce a Premium Pickup to capture the growing market.
“The high level of interest and anticipation in the lead up to revealing the new X-Class has been a reflection of just how engrained dual cab utes are in both the Australian and New Zealand culture. The fact is we love utes and we are showing a desire to incorporate this type of vehicle into our lives in more ways than we did in the past. Not just for work, but also increasingly for private use.” said Diane Tarr, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Vans in Australia and New Zealand.
“The new X-Class finds the perfect balance between the stylish design expected of a Mercedes-Benz and the uncompromising robustness and functionality demanded of the category. As a result, with the X-Class, we can effectively provide a solution for trade and fleet customers, and we will find out just how far this category can evolve for private customers who need the vehicle to support their lifestyle.”
Three differing models of the X-Class will be available, the X-Class Pure, X-Class PROGRESSIVE and the top spec X-Class POWER. The workhorse role falls to the X-Class PURE which is focused on providing rugged and functionality alongside the comfort and style expected of a Mercedes. Improved styling and comfort is available on the mid spec X-Class PROGRESSIVE which Mercedes intend to be used as “calling card” for business owners. The X-Class POWER sits at the peak offering the required high levels of equipment and design needed in a lifestyle vehicle that stands above the mainstream models.
Beneath the contoured design lies a sturdy and rugged ladder-type frame housing front independent wheel suspension, a rear multi-link solid axle with coil springs all round. Mercedes rate the X-Class’s payload capacity at 1.1 tonnes and expect a 3.5 tonne brake assisted tow capacity. Models will be available in rear wheel drive and engageable or permanent all wheel drive configurations with power provided by four engine options:
- X200 – 2.4 litre inline four cylinder with 122kW and 238Nm of torque.
- X220d – 2.3 litre inline four cylinder diesel with 120kW and 403Nm of torque.
- X250d – 2.3 litre inline four cylinder twin turbo diesel with 140kW and 450Nm of torque.
- X350d – 3.0 litre V6 turbo diesel with 190kW and 550Nm of torque.
The Australian launch for the X-Class is set for 2018 though no solid date has been set.
