Currently a powerful force in the commercial van market, it appears like Mercedes is now prepared to make its mark in the light truck section. Prospective competitors include the Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux and Volkswagen Amarok, plus the abovementioned related models from Nissan and Renault.
These are our newest spy shots of a prototype for a new mid-size pickup from Mercedes-Benz. The truck will be called an X-Class and was previewed last fall by a principle of the very same name.
This isn’t really a lifestyle offering we’re talking about– although there will be lifestyle-oriented versions– but a severe workhorse with some common Mercedes high-end included.
The X-Class is based on the rugged body-on-frame platform found in the latest Nissan NP300 Navara, and at the moment the model still shares some components with the Nissan. The grille is clearly a Mercedes unit, however. Nissan’s alliance partner Renault has its own version of the NP300 Navara called the Alaskan.
All 3 trucks are due to be developed at Nissan’s plant located in Barcelona, Spain, in addition to a Renault plant in Cordoba, Argentina. Distinct styling and interiors are being used to separate them.
For example, the interior of the X-Class idea included the rotary dial and touchpad controller system found in the most recent Mercedes models, in addition to superior products on the dash and a big infotainment screen.
It’s possible Mercedes will likewise use its own engines for its truck. The X-Class idea came powered by a turbocharged V-6 diesel which was paired with an automatic transmission. Other mechanicals consisted of a live rear axle with spring dampers, which Mercedes said assists to smooth on and off-road driving.
We can expect a debut of the X-Class in its final form in late 2017 or early the following year. Unfortunately, Mercedes has no strategies to provide the X-Class in the United States at this minute.
Copyright © 2017 by New Autocar Review.