Mercedes-Benz is set to make a significant move by entering the midsize pickup truck market, a segment previously unexplored by the luxury automaker. They’ve announced the X-Class, a double-cab pickup truck, showcasing its vision through two concept models, with production slated to begin by mid-2017.
The X-Class, a name confirmed for the production model, was unveiled in two distinct concept forms by Mercedes-Benz’s design team, each highlighting different facets of this new vehicle.
The “Stylish Explorer” concept is considered a close representation of the initial X-Class model. It features a production-ready steel body, tires and wheels optimized for on-road performance, a moderate ride height, and an interior finished with luxurious leather. This version emphasizes urban appeal and daily usability.
Conversely, the “Powerful Adventurer” concept projects a more robust and rugged image. Designed to tackle challenging terrains, it boasts generous ground clearance, four-wheel drive, enhanced wheel-arch and body-side cladding, and off-road tires designed for maximum traction. This variant is aimed at drivers seeking adventure and off-road capabilities in a Mercedes-benz Pickup Truck.
Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Mercedes-Benz, stated, “With the X-Class, we will close one of the last gaps in our portfolio. Our target is to offer customers vehicles matching their specific needs. The pickup will set new standards in a growing segment.” This statement underscores Mercedes-Benz’s ambition to redefine the pickup truck segment with the X-Class.
The primary markets targeted for the Mercedes-Benz pickup truck X-Class include Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Europe, and South Africa. Production for markets like Australia, Europe, and South Africa is scheduled to commence in 2017 at a Nissan factory in Barcelona, Spain. For the South American markets, the X-Class will be assembled in Cordoba, Argentina, starting in 2018.
Mercedes-Benz is also evaluating the potential for introducing the X-Class to the North American market. According to a company official, while North American sales are not immediately confirmed, possibilities for NAFTA-based production are being explored to potentially market the new model in the U.S. in the future. However, the initial focus remains on establishing the X-Class in the already identified core markets.
The development of the Mercedes-Benz pickup truck is a result of a collaboration with Nissan Navara and Renault Alaskan. The X-Class will share production lines with these models in both Spain and Argentina, indicating a strategic partnership to leverage existing manufacturing infrastructure and expertise.
The design of the X-Class stays consistent with previously released sketches, showcasing a design language similar to the Mercedes-Benz V-Class van. This visual alignment aims to integrate the pickup truck seamlessly within Mercedes-Benz’s commercial vehicle family.
Both concept versions prominently feature Mercedes-Benz’s signature styling elements. The front grilles incorporate the iconic centrally mounted three-pointed star and the company’s latest headlamp designs, ensuring immediate brand recognition.
Adding to its assertive stance, the Powerful Adventurer concept includes a prominent scuff plate integrated into the front bumper and a winch, emphasizing its off-road prowess and appealing to those seeking a capable Mercedes-Benz pickup truck for all terrains. The X-Class will be available in various configurations to maximize its market appeal, catering to a broad spectrum of customer needs.
In contrast, the Stylish Explorer gives the X-Class a more refined and athletic appearance. Features like a hood power dome and flared front wheel arches, designed to accommodate rims up to 22 inches, enhance its visual width and on-road presence.
Four conventional front-hinged doors provide easy access to the cabin, which houses front bucket seats and a rear bench seat accommodating three passengers. This configuration ensures passenger comfort and practicality, making the Mercedes-Benz pickup truck suitable for both work and leisure.
The cargo bed of the X-Class is similar in design to those found on the Nissan Navara and Renault Alaskan, suggesting shared underpinnings and dimensions. However, each concept showcases unique taillamp designs within the tailgate. The Stylish Explorer features a full-width oval taillamp treatment, while the Powerful Adventurer adopts more traditional vertically stacked units, demonstrating design flexibility within the X-Class range.
The Mercedes-Benz pickup truck boasts a substantial load capacity of 2,425 lbs (1,200 kg). The V-6 diesel model will offer a towing capacity reaching up to 7,716 lbs (3,500 kg), making it a highly capable vehicle for both payload and towing needs.
Premium Interior and Robust Chassis
Inside, the Mercedes-Benz pickup truck X-Class elevates the segment with a dashboard and cabin design heavily inspired by the V-Class commercial vehicle and incorporating elements from the C-Class. Notable features include a free-standing central monitor and a rotary controller with integrated touchpad functionalities, blending luxury car interior design with pickup truck functionality.
Advanced technology features planned for the production version include a communication module with an integrated SIM card. This system will enable owners to interact with the infotainment system directly via their smartphones, enhancing connectivity and convenience.
Safety is also a priority for the Mercedes-Benz pickup truck. It will incorporate camera-, radar-, and ultrasound-based driver-assistance systems. Company officials suggest these features will position the X-Class at the forefront of the pickup class in terms of both standard and optional safety equipment, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety innovation across its vehicle lineup.
Volker Mornhinweg, head of the Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle division, confirmed that initial X-Class variants will offer seating for five and are designed as “urban lifestyle and family vehicles,” mirroring the Stylish Explorer concept. A range of accessories, including bed covers, will be available, allowing customers to customize their Mercedes-Benz pickup truck to suit their individual needs and preferences.
A more utilitarian version, reflecting the ruggedness of the Powerful Adventurer concept, will follow. This model will offer enhanced off-road capabilities and features, catering to customers requiring a more robust and adventure-ready Mercedes-Benz pickup truck.
Mornhinweg identified five key customer groups for the new Mercedes-Benz pickup truck: families, tradespeople, landowners, adventurers, and individualists. This broad target audience indicates Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to appeal to both traditional pickup truck buyers and those new to the segment, seeking a blend of luxury and utility.
Engine options for the Mercedes-Benz pickup truck X-Class are planned to include 4-cylinder gasoline (sourced from Nissan) and diesel (from Mercedes-Benz) units, as well as a top-tier V-6 diesel engine, as showcased in the concept vehicles.
Lower-end models will come standard with rear-wheel drive, while 4Matic four-wheel drive will be offered as an option and standard on V-6 models. The 4Matic system will be paired with a low-range transfer case, on-demand differential locks, and electronic traction control, ensuring capable off-road performance when needed in this Mercedes-Benz pickup truck.
The X-Class utilizes a specially tuned version of the chassis found in the Nissan Navara and Renault Alaskan. It features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a 5-link rear suspension, engineered to provide a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability.
With the introduction of the X-Class, Mercedes-Benz is strategically entering a substantial global mid-size pickup market, estimated at around 2.3 million units annually. The market is currently dominated by Toyota, with its Hilux/Tacoma models selling approximately 700,000 units globally each year. In the premium segment, the X-Class will compete with models like the Volkswagen Amarok, aiming to capture a share of the growing market for luxury and capable pickup trucks.
