If there is one vehicle that has divided opinion since its local launch, it has been the Mercedes-Benz X-Class.
But that is primary because people are a little uneducated about the X-Class. The reality is, the X-Class is not just a ‘Navara with Mascara’ as some term it. The only thing it really shares with the Navara are its underpinnings – everything else has been ‘re-touched’ by Mercedes.
Make no bones about it, the X-Class, Mercedes’ first real pickup, is the first premium pickup available in South Africa – after all, it does wear the three pointed star. And while the X220d and X250d have soldiered on, Mercedes-Benz South Africa has finally released pricing for their range-topping X350d.
Two derivatives of the X350d will be available locally - the rugged 'Progressive' spec, and the luxurious 'Power' spec, with them priced at R904 188 and R973 188 respectively.
- The X350d Progressive is aimed at people seeking a rugged double cab with extra styling and comfort functions, while also being a comfortable yet prestigious vehicle for private or dual use;
- The X350d Power is the high-end line. It is aimed at customers for whom styling, performance and comfort are paramount. As a lifestyle vehicle beyond the mainstream, it is suitable for urban environments as well as for sports and leisure activities off the beaten track. Its design and high level of equipment reflect an independent and individualistic lifestyle
Whereas the lesser X-Class models use a Nissan-derived 2.3-litre turbodiesel motor, the X350d uses a Mercedes-Benz built 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 that produces 190kw and peak torque of 550nm, available from 1,400 to 3,200rpm. The motor – which is a slightly detuned version of the one used in the GLC350d - is paired with a 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission, and features 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive as standard, with 60% of available torque sent to the rear wheels in standard guise.
There is also a low-range transfer case is fitted (with 4MAT, 4H and 4L modes) for proper off-roading; as well as Dynamic Select, which offers 5 driving modes: Sport, Eco, Off-Road, Comfort and Manual. It’s also capable of 0-100kph in 7.5 sec and will run to a 205kph top speed. Mercedes-Benz claims a combined fuel consumption figure of 9.0L/100km.
“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, Vice-President of Mercedes-Benz Vans Southern Africa.
The prices detailed are the manufacturer’s recommended retail prices, and exclude optional extras and any dealer associated costs, such as registration, delivery, etc. The V6 X350d is available with a full range of accessories, which are excluded from the recommended retail prices above.
Deliveries of the Mercedes-Benz X350d are expected to kick off before the end of 2018.
