Mercedes has officially unveiled the new X-Class pickup truck.
Billed as the first pickup from a premium manufacturer, the X-Class features a prominent grille which is flanked by LED-infused headlights. The truck has also been equipped with plastic body cladding, muscular wheel arches, and vertical taillights.
Three different configurations will be offered including a work-focused X-Class Pure, a consumer-grade X-Class Progressive, and a lifestyle variant dubbed the X-Class Power.
Regardless of which model is selected, all will feature a practical bed that comes standard with cargo area lighting and a 12-volt socket which can be used to power equipment such as air compressors and saws. The truck also has a rear bumper with an integrated step but that can be removed to allow the tailgate to open a full 180 degrees.
The interior doesn’t live up to the luxurious X-Class concepts but it comes equipped a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel and circular air vents. Entry-level models have black fabric seats but higher-end variants can be ordered with leather upholstery.
A variety of different options will be available including a leather-wrapped dashboard, woodgrain trim, and a freestanding infotainment system with an 8.4-inch display.
At launch, the X-Class will be offered with two different four-cylinder engines. The X 220 d will have a 2.3-liter turbo-diesel that produces 163 PS (120 kW), while the X 250 d will have a biturbo-diesel developing 190 PS (140 kW).
The company also has plans to offer an X 200 with 165 PS (122 kW) and an X 350 d with a V6 engine producing 258 PS (190 kW) and 550 Nm (405 lb-ft) of torque.
Depending on which engine is selected, it can be paired to either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive will come standard on most models but all-wheel drive will also be available.
Despite wearing a tri-star logo, Mercedes says the truck is fully-capable of handling work duty as it features a ladder-type frame and a solid rear axle. The company also notes the truck has a payload capacity of 1.1 tonnes (1.2 tons) which is enough to carry 17 barrels of beer. Customers will also be happy to know the model can tow up to 3.5 tonnes (3.8 tons) which is enough to haul a trailer carrying three horses.
Speaking of capability, the X-Class comes standard with 202mm (7.9 inches) of ground clearance but that can be increased to 222mm (8.7 inches) with an optional off-road suspension. The model also has a breakover angle of 20.4°, a fording depth of 600mm (23.6 inches), and approach/departure angles of up to 30.1° and 25.9°.
The X-Class will go on sale in Europe this November and German pricing starts at €37,294. It will eventually be offered in a number of other countries including Australia, Argentina, Brazil, and South Africa.