Mercedes-Benz X-Class Ute: World Premiere
The lid is officially lifted on the production version of Merc’s new X-Class dual-cab ute, due in Australia early 2018After a two-year teaser campaign the X-Class was officially revealed to the world’s motoring press in South Africa overnight.
It’s Mercedes-Benz’s first conventional dual-cab utility (G-wagens and Unimogs aside) and shows a clear differentiation in styling both from its Nissan Navara donor, and the concept model shown nine months prior.
The styling motif more closely resembles Mercedes-Benz SUV variants’ ‘Sensual Purity’ design philosophy. The new ute’s front fascia includes slim headlights (LED on Power variants) and twin-louvre grille with centrally positioned star badge.
The production X-Class reveals all-new sheetmetal forward of the A-pillar, LED combination tail-lights, and wider front and rear wheel track measurements (1632 and 1625mm).
The production version measures 5340mm in length, is 1920mm wide and 1819mm high. It is capable of carrying a payload of up to 1100kg, can take a full-size pallet between the wheel arches and can tow up to 3500kg (braked).
In select markets the X-Class may be optioned without the rear bumper to allow the tailgate to open to 180 degrees. The tray is illuminated via the high-level brake light and offers a 12-volt accessory power outlet.
The three model X-Class range sees low-grade Pure variants identified by an unpainted front bumper cover, while mid-spec Progressive and high-grade Power models receive a painted bumper, the latter with chrome accents. The three variants feature 17, 18 or 19-inch wheels respectively and are offered in a choice of nine paint colours.
Inside, the X-Class promises a quieter, more refined cabin than its Nissan donor. It’s styled with a concaved dashboard punctuated with a 8.4-inch floating, tablet style centre screen and circular air vents. Mid and high-grade models receive a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Cloth and leather upholstery is offered dependant on grade.
From Progressive grade upwards the X-Class offers Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND Online infotainment array with digital radio controlled via a multifunction touchpad in the centre console. High-grade Power receives a 360-degree camera and satellite navigation. All variants receive a reversing camera as standard.
The X-Class also boasts best in class safety equipment including four-wheel disc brakes, seven airbags, AEB, tyre pressure monitoring, lane-keeping assist and trailer sway assistant. It is expected to receive a five-star ANCAP safety rating.
Under the bonnet the X-Class will initially be offered with a choice of 2.3-litre turbo-diesel engines familiar to the Navara range. In single-turbo X220d variants that translates to 120kW/403Nm while the twin-turbo X250d makes 140kW/450Nm.
The X220d is offered only with a six-speed manual transmission while the X250d is available with the manual and optional seven-speed automatic. Both variants are offered in 4x2 or 4x4 format, the latter with rear differential lock.
Mercedes-Benz will also offer its X350d from mid 2018, that model powered by a 3.0-litre V6 developing 190kW/550Nm. It is mated exclusively to Merc’s 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system.
A manual-only, petrol-powered variant dubbed X200 (122kW/238Nm) will be offered in select left-hand drive markets only.
All ride on a modified version of Nissan’s double wishbone front and multi-link coil rear suspension arrangement. Mercedes lists ground clearance at 202mm front and 221mm rear with a 20mm higher suspension tune optional. Wading is listed at 600mm.
“Our Mercedes-Benz pick-up is ready to be a leading force in the transformation of the segment,” explained Mercedes-Benz chairman Dr Dieter Zetsche via video.
“It will still be a reliable workhorse and companion out in the field… it will be tough where toughness is needed, yet it will add a lot more versatility to a class of vehicle now performing many different roles to perfection.”
The X-Class will make its public debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September ahead of its global press launch in October.
More details on the Australian plans for X-Class and equipment levels etc are here.
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