Mercedes-Benz unveiled its X-Class bakkie to the world’s media at the global launch in Cape Town in July. Currently the X-Class is on display at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show for anyone to ogle, ahead of its release into the market in a couple of months time.
In case you missed all the hype and the information already released about this luxury bakkie, or ‘posh pickup’ as it has been referred to by media in the UK, here is a recap:
Three design and equipment lines
The bakkie bearing the three-pointed star comes in three design and equipment variants, namely the entry level X-Class Pure, described by the German marque as a workhorse that is ‘deal for rugged, functional use.’
One more rung up the ladder introduces the X-Class Progressive aimed at ‘people seeking a rugged pickup with extra styling and comfort functions.
Finally at the top of the heap is the high-end X-Class Power ‘lifestyle vehicle’ aimed at customers who demand ‘styling, performance and comfort.’
Under the hood
The X-Class will be launched with the choice of two four-cylinder engines: the 2.3-litre common-rail diesel will come with a choice of two power outputs. In the X 220d with a single turbocharger it generates 120 kW and in the biturbo X 250d you’ll get 140kW. Both diesel models come with the option of either two-wheel or engageable all-wheel drive. These engine are mated to a six-speed manual transmission, although a seven-speed auto box is available for the 140 kW X 250 d and X 250 d 4MATIC models.
The range-topping X 350d 4Matic model will be released in mid-2018 and gets a V6 diesel engine that generates 190kW and a maximum torque of 550Nm, mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission with permanent all-wheel drive. It also features steering-wheel shift paddles and an eco start/stop function.
Customers who buy this top X-Class model will have the option of adding the Dynamic Select system, enabling the driver to select from five drive programs. These include: Comfort, Eco, Sport, Manual and Offroad. Each of these modes modify the engine characteristics, the automatic transmission’s switching points and the Eco start/stop function to adhere to the specific mode and desired performance.
Safety
Merc claims that the X-Class has a high level of occupant protection resulting from its ‘particularly robust bodyshell with its high-strength passenger cell, plus a structure with a front and rear section that can absorb energy through well-aimed deformation.’
Additional it comes with safety systems such as active brake, lane keeping and traffic sign assist, as well as trailer stability control, a tyre pressure monitoring system and an emergency call system, cruise control, as well as LED headlamps that ‘deliver the brightest light output in the segment’. A 360-degree camera is available in addition to the reversing camera.