SA’s priciest bakkie almost here
The much-anticipated V6 version of the Mercedes-Benz XClass bakkie will flirt with the R1m mark when it is launched here at the end of November.
Following the market launch of the four-cylinder Mercedes-Benz X220d and the X250d earlier in 2018, Mercedes-Benz Vans SA has announced the pricing of the V6 X-Class X350d, which is already available on order.
It comes in two versions – the Progressive, priced at R904,188, and the Power at R973,188.
The standard six-year/ 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,” Mercedes-Benz Vans Southern Africa vice-president Nadia Trimmel said.
“The V6 X350d reflects luxury and performance, best characterised by quality engineering and, of course, power like no other.”
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, 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 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic gearbox with steeringmounted gearshift paddles, and has a permanent fourwheel-drive system instead of the selectable 4WD of the fourcylinder X-Class models.
The off-road 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. – BDLive