Merc ute Nz-bound early-2018
First-ever onetonner from German maker aims to cover all of the bases, from fleet to luxury-lifestyle. By David Linklater.
The wraps have come off the production version of Mercedes-benz’s X-class ute - the German maker’s rival for the likes of the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux and Volkswagen Amarok.
A product of Mercedes-benz Vans – distinct from the car division – the X-class will be launched in Europe first, in November. But its most important markets are ute-centric South Africa, Australia and New Zealand: we’ll see it in early-2018. Argentina and Brazil will follow at the beginning of 2019.
Five of the top 10 selling vehicles in NZ year-to-date are utes. ‘‘The new X-class finds the perfect balance between the stylish design expected of a Mercedes-benz and the uncompromising robustness and functionality demanded of the category,’’ says Mercedes-benz Vans Australia and New Zealand managing director, Diane Tarr.
‘‘As a result, with the X-class, we can effectively provide a solution for trade and fleet customers, and we will find out just how far this category can evolve for private customers who need the vehicle to support their lifestyle.
‘‘The Mercedes-benz X-class has been specifically developed for the changing requirements of the ute market in mind. The demand for midsize utes with typical passenger car characteristics and comfort features has been steadily on the rise for years. At the same time, the number of utes for private use is increasing. They are no longer viewed purely as workhorses.’’
There will be three design and equipment variants to choose from as well as four or six-cylinder engines, rear-wheel drive and engagable or permanent all-wheel drive, a six-speed manual transmission and a seven-speed automatic transmission.
The X220d (120kw) and X250d (140kw) turbo-diesel fours will be available from launch. A flagship V6 turbo-diesel with 190kw will be launched later in 2018.
The new ute is built on a ladder-type frame chassis (the basic structure is borrowed from the Nissan Navara), with a rear multi-link solid axle, independent front suspension and coil springs on both axles. Wheel sizes range from 17 to 19 inches, depending on specification.
Mercedes-benz claims a payload of 1042kg, which the company says is enough to carry ‘‘17 full 50-litre barrels of beer’’. Braked tow rating is 3.5 tonnes, which is even more beer.
At 5340mm in length, the X-class is slightly shorter than a Ford Ranger (5351mm). The wheelbase is 70mm shorter on the X-class, but the double-cab’s load tray is actually 38mm longer than the Ranger’s.
The X-class will be available in three model variants.
The basic X-class Pure is the functional/fleet version.
The X-class Progressive is aimed at people seeking a ‘‘rugged ute with extra styling and comfort functions’’, says Mercedes-benz.
The X-class Power is the highend design and equipment line that puts more of an emphasis on styling, performance and comfort.
Each model will have a slightly different look.
On the Pure the bumpers are unpainted, while on the Progressive and Power they are body-colour. The Power also has a chrome underbody panel.
The rear bumper has an integral step to assist with loading.
If the standard 90-degree tailgate opening is not adequate, the X-class can also be ordered without the rear bumper; then the tailgate opens to 180 degrees.
The load bed has been designed to fit a European-sized pallet straight between the wheel arches.
Lighting in the cargo area is standard: the third brake light contains LEDS which illuminate the whole tray.
A 12-volt socket to power additional equipment is also fitted to the load bed.