Benz’s powerful bakkie out in November
BAKKIE NEWS/ Order books open for much-awaited 190kW Benz bakkie, which goes on sale next month, writes Denis Droppa
The much-anticipated V6 version of the Mercedes-Benz XClass bakkie will flirt with the R1m mark when it’s launched here at the end of November.
Following the market launch of the four-cylinder MercedesBenz X220d and the X250d earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz Vans SA has announced the pricing of the V6 X-Class X350d, which is now available to order. It will be available in two versions: the Progressive, priced at R904,188, and the Power at R973,188. The standard sixyear/100,000km warranty and maintenance plan is included.
However, these prices exclude the various optional extras and accessories available — including a canopy, style bars and bed liner — which could tip the price over R1m.
“We are confident that the new V6 X-Class range-topper presents a next to none offering — combining modern design, safety, sophistication and a supreme level of comfort.
“The V6 X350d reflects luxury and performance, best characterised by quality engineering and of course, power like no other,” says Nadia Trimmel, the vice-president of Mercedes-Benz Vans Southern Africa.
While the four-cylinder turbodiesel used in the Mercedes X220d and X250d is a Nissan engine, the 3.0l V6 powering the X350d is made by Mercedes-Benz. Producing outputs of 190kW and 550Nm, the X350d will be SA’s most powerful bakkie when it arrives next month, inheriting the title from Volkswagen’s 165kW/ 550Nm V6 Amarok.
Mercedes-Benz claims a 7.9 second 0-100km sprint time for the X350d.
The engine is mated to a 7GTronic seven-speed automatic gearbox with steering-mounted gearshift paddles, and has a permanent four-wheel-drive system instead of the selectable 4WD of the four-cylinder XClass models. The offroad ability is enhanced by a selectable low range reduction gear and a rear diff lock.
With the standard-fitted Dynamic Select system, drivers can switch between a choice of five driving modes that can be changed by fingertip control.
With solid-axle rear suspension paired with coils, instead of the traditional leaf springs, a smooth ride is one of the selling points of the X-Class.
Full specifications and details will be made available at the November launch.