Revealed: Mercedes-Benz X-Class Pickup Concept

The X-Class will be the 4th model series from the Mercedes-Benz Vans division

Think of Mercedes-Benz and it’s luxury sedans or premium SUVs that come to mind first, but here’s one more body style that’s about to enter the mix. Say hello to the X-Class concept, a preview of what will go on to become the new pickup from the Mercedes-Benz stable.

Based on the Nissan Navara, the premium pickup has been rendered in two design variants – ‘powerful adventurer’ and ‘stylish explorer’, each showcasing the concept in a different light. While the powerful adventurer looks like a classic, tough pickup truck that can go off-road, the stylish explorer is more about classy urban cruising - both traits that Mercedes wants to offer with the X-Class.

Trivia: Mercedes-Benz has made pickups before. Models include the 170 V flatbed, a pickup version of the original G-Class, and the monstrous G63 6x6.

As per the official release, Daimler AG will “make investments in the high nine figures (euro) in the new model series” by the time it is launched. Speaking of which, the production-spec X-Class will be launched in late 2017, with key markets including Argentina, Brazil, South Africa, Australia with New Zealand, and Europe.

Here are a few key details about the pickup:

• It is a double-cab, 5-seater vehicle.
• It is built on a ladder-frame chassis.
• The pickup will offer a payload capacity of 1.1 tons and a towing capacity of 3.5 tons.
• The range-topping model will be powered by a V6 diesel engine, while lower variants will get 4-cylinder motors.
• The X-Class will feature the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive (AWD) system. The AWD setup will include an electronic traction control system, a transfer case with a reduction gear, and two differential locks.
• A host of interior components and features will be shared with models like the C-Class and V-Class. Highlights include Nappa leather upholstery, brushed and polished aluminium trim elements, a free-standing infotainment display, as well as a central controller and multifunctional touchpad.

With the X-Class, Mercedes-Benz is targeting everyone from young families and adventure junkies to building contractors, architects and even farmers. Production for the European, Australian and South African markets will start at the Nissan plant in Barcelona, Spain, in 2017. For the Latin American market, the pickup will roll off the assembly lines at Renault’s plant in Cordoba, Argentina, starting in 2018.

The chances of the X-Class coming to India are bleak, but we’re still hopeful. Till then, check out some other pickups we want to see in India soon here!