Mercedes-Benz Reveals X-Class Concept Pickup Truck
Published On Oct 26, 2016
The much anticipated pickup truck by Mercedes-Benz is finally out. After creating a frenzy among auto enthusiasts by rolling out a teaser a few days back, the automaker, known for its stylish and premium range of vehicles, has revealed the X-Class Concept pickup. Meant for the mid-sized pickup truck segment, the Concept was unveiled in two variants for addressing two different requirements—the ‘powerful adventurer’ and the ‘stylish explorer’.
The new pickup would be based on the Nissan NP300 Navara platform and will be launched in 2017. The auto maker is aiming key markets such as Latin America, Australia,South Africa and Europe.
The tough and rugged ‘powerful adventurer’ version comes with off-roading capabilities and higher ground clearance. The sleek and premium ‘stylish explorer’ comes with a SUV-like stance with cleaner running lines and 22-inch light alloy wheels. The double-cab, 5-seater pickup will have a payload capacity of 1.1 tons and will be powered by a V6 diesel engine (topmost model).
According to Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, “We will open up and change the segment of mid-size pickups – with the world’s first true premium pickup for the modern urban lifestyle.” He further said, “Our future X-Class will be a pickup that knows no compromise. Ladder-type frame, high-torque six-cylinder engine, and permanent all-wheel drive are compulsory for us. As an added value, we bring safety, comfort, agility, and expressive design – in other words, everything that distinguishes vehicles bearing the Mercedes star.”
The automaker aims to target new customers who have not considered owning a pickup truck before and hopes that the new vehicle will expand the popularity of the sector to drive sales. Mercedes also believes that the X-Class will cater to both private and commercial purposes and not just be another mechanical workhorse.