MERCEDES-BENZ X350d
Special delivery: the Star dual-cab we originally ordered
Three-pointed trayback now closer to the pointy end
BELIEF was justifiably high when Merc announced a dual-cab ute foray, but the X250d’s carryover Nissan drivetrain meant it wasn’t quite as Benz-like as anticipated. Some found it hard to believe, despite its advances, that X-class was more than a Navara with a three-pointed star on it.
The X350d is the one with the potential to get the message through. It scores a Mercedes engine and gearbox, and other fundamental changes that support its performance hike. It’s radically different under the skin, not only to the Spanish-built Navara with which it shares a production line, but to the X250d as well.
The engine is a burly 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 producing 190kw and 550Nm – 50kw and 100Nm more than the 2.3-litre X250d. It’s mated to a seven-speed auto that’s controllable via paddle shifters, and feeds a permanent all-wheeldrive system with a fixed 40:60 rear-biased torque split. Official fuel economy is 9.0L/100km.
With a claimed 7.5sec 0-100km/h the X350d sits alongside the Volkswagen Amarok V6 as one of the segment’s quickest, and it gets there without the harshness associated with most oilers. It’s an effortlessly fluid powertrain.
A heavy focus on creating a carlike driving experience included a more comprehensive approach to improving on already impressive levels of noise suppression and cabin refinement. The light steering is unchanged from the X250d and a Sport mode sharpens throttle response and alters gear shift points for greater urgency. There are also Eco and Comfort modes and a manual setting.
We’ll reserve judgment on the X350d’s revised suspension until the local launch late this year because Australian versions will get a raised suspension set-up and 222mm of ground clearance. Initial impressions of the overseas spec with an unladen tray suggest that, while firm, Mercedes has struck a ride and handling balance that’s more cooperative for fast road driving than other bouncy dualcabs. The X350d’s composure on gravel is equally impressive.
The rear axle is variant-specific, with the option of an electronically activated locking differential. The transfer case is also new, borrowed from G-class, and allows the selection of the low-range gearset while on the move.
Hit the trails and the X350d will handle as much as most people will ever throw it at. The off-roadspecific mode tackles 45-degree inclines and will wade through water up to 600mm deep.
An upgraded braking package brings ventilated discs to all four corners plus a stronger booster and larger diameter master cylinder. Stopping confidence could be improved by reducing pedal stroke and removing the spongy feel.
Wide tracks translate upwards to a cabin that’s 50mm broader as well as 30mm taller than Navara’s. Space is generous, though there’s minimal tradie focus with a lack of storage or workhorse features. But the cabin is a calm, comfortable place, even after hours of driving. Standard equipment is at the pointy end of the class, including a comprehensive active safety suite.
Two variants will be available locally – Progressive and Power. Pricing and spec will be announced closer to the launch in December, though expect starting money in the mid-$70k range, where it will meet the Ford Ranger Raptor.
Anybody who felt that the X250d failed to deliver the complete Benz experience will be pleased by the X350d. This feels like the vehicle Mercedes had in mind when it promised a dual-cab ute. It’s a little more polished, more capable on and off the road, and aligns with what’s expected when there’s a three-pointed star on the snout.