Mercedes-Benz will launch its first one-tonne pickup truck next year, as part of its ongoing partnership with the Renault-Nissan Alliance.
Claimed to be the world’s first premium-brand pickup truck, the X-Class Concept shares its platform with the Nissan Navara and forthcoming Renault Alaskan – the three vehicles will be produced on the same line in Barcelona. It will launch in late 2017 following a “nine-figure investment” taking the brand’s van line-up into a new sector.
The X-Class will use a ladder-frame chassis and feature permanent four-wheel drive mated to a V6 diesel engine, offering a 1.1-tonne capacity and 3.5-tonne towing capabilities. Its cabin features seating and technology from Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, including connectivity services, and the two concept versions suggest it will be possible to equip it for utilitarian or lifestyle customers.
Dr Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the board of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, commented: “With the Mercedes-Benz pickup, we will close one of the last gaps in our portfolio. Our target: we want to offer customers vehicles matching their specific needs. The X-Class will set new standards in a growing segment.”
