MERCEDES is upping the stakes in the hotly contested double-cab bakkie market with the launch of its premium X-Class pick-up!
The German carmaker, which is well-known known for its luxury sedans and SUVs, is for the first time offering a bakkie to take on the range-topping versions of the VW Amarok, Toyota Hilux and Ford Range.
The X-Class is now on sale in Mzansi and it looks to be the most luxurious bakkie ever!
Mercedes and Nissan based the X-Class on the very capable Navara double cab.
For now, the X-Class comes with a 2,3-litre turbodiesel engine available in two states of tunes: 120 kW in the X220d and 140 kW in the X250d.
The X220d is available in rear-wheel drive, while the X250d is offered in rear-wheel drive or with Merc’s selective 4MATIC all-wheel drive, with low range.
The engines are fitted with six-speed manual gearboxes, while the X250d models are also available with a seven-speed automatic.
In 4x4 guise, the X-Class has 222mm ground clearance and 600mm wading depth – making it a capable off-roader too.
A range-topping X350d ,with a high-torque V6 diesel engine, joins the line-up later in the year.
Only the Progressive and Power trim levels are available. The Progressive comes with alloy wheels, a 21,3cm infotainment screen, cruise control, eight-speaker sound system, leather steering wheel and chrome.
Power has leather seats, dual-zone climate control, electrically-adjustable front seats, LED lights and keyless go. They are sold with a six-year/100 000km full maintenance plan.
All X-Class models include seven airbags. Active-brake assist and lane-keeping assist are optionally available.
The range of optional extras include surround-view cameras, electric-sliding back windows, parking sensors, canopies, roll bars, side steps, tow bars, differential locks and a variety of alloy wheel designs.
The X-Class prices range between R642 103 and R791 315.
