Haul your load in style with the new Benz X-Class

Mercedes-Benz saw a gap in the midsize pickup segment and decided to throw a premium entry into the mix. The German automaker has announced their Concept X-Class which represents their idea of a traditional utility truck mixed with some Benz luxury.

Two design versions of the concept model will be debuting in Stockholm, Sweden. The first of them is the Concept X-CLASS powerful adventurer, which will illustrate its off-road capability and its classic pickup functionality. The second will be the Concept X-CLASS stylish explorer, displaying the vehicle’s style.

The five-seater one-ton pickup will be closing one of the last gaps in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio. It is also meant to transform from being a workhorse to a stylish transporting-family truck.

The concepts will contain high-end materials such as Nappa leather, wood veneers, and polished aluminium. Modern luxury is rolled out through the round air vents, the free-standing high-resolution central display as well as the central controller and multifunctional touchpad. Similar to a smartphone, all telematics functions can be controlled with the touchpad by using gestures or by entering letters and characters, consequently introducing the most modern control and display concept in the pickup segment.

In terms of engines, a variety is most likely to be available. The range-topping model will be powered by a V6 diesel in combination with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive. The X-Class will have a payload of more than 1.1 ton and a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tons.

Mercedes-Benz becomes the first premium manufacturer to enter the mid-size pickup segment. It is said that Daimler AG will be making investments of nine figures (euro) into the new model series building up to its official market launch, which will be end of 2017. The key markets to receive the Spanish built X-Class will be Argentina, Brazil, South Africa, Australia, and Europe. By 2018 it will also be available to the Latin American markets.