Quick Facts | |
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Make | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | X-Class |
Body type | Ute |
Pros |
No Navara clone |
Cons |
Lack of cabin storage space |
Country of manufacture | Germany |
Priced from | $52,400 |
Specifications
Engine | |
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Number of cylinders | 4 |
Engine size | 2.3 L |
Claimed max power (kW) | 140 kW |
Claimed max torque (Nm) | 450 Nm |
Transmission | |
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Type | 7-speed auto |
Fuel Consumption | |
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Claimed fuel consumption | 5.8L/100km |
The Mercedes-Benz X-Class is the luxury carmaker’s first ever ute and much more than just a rebadged Nissan Navara. Prior to the X-Class launch, there was much industry chatter about Mercedes’ decision to partner with Nissan and use the Navara commercial range as a starting point for its first ever ute. Was it classic ‘badge engineering’ (a common practice back in the 1990s, where the only point of difference was literally the badge) or did it go much deeper?
What is it?
Mercedes needed a fast and cost-efficient way to enter the growing dual cab ute market. The chassis and engine/transmission package is shared (until the arrival of the V6), but Mercedes has tweaked almost everything else.
How much is it?
The X 250d dual cab is available in three guises: the entry-level Pure, mid-spec Progressive and top-of-the-range Power. Prices start at $52,400 for the Pure six-speed manual, with the seven-speed auto a $2900 option. The Progressive manual is $54,900 and the Power manual is $61,600. This pricing structure means the range begins at the upper end of the dual-cab ute segment, with Ford’s Wildtrak 3.2 ($62,790) and Volkswagen’s V6 Amarok Ultimate ($68,490) being obvious competitors.
What are the features?
The Nissan four-cylinder 2.3-litre diesel engine, matched to a seven-speed auto, develops 140kW and 450Nm. Mercedes’ 4MATIC AWD system, with low-range and standard differential lock, handles the tough stuff. The basic suspension design is lifted from the Navara’s double wishbone front axle and multi-link coils at the rear, but with Mercedes-developed springs and dampers. Like the Navara, the X-Class can tow up to 3500kg.
The Power’s standard features list is extensive, headed by an infotainment COMAND system with navigation and touchpad. There’s also climate control, keyless entry/button start, LED headlamps, leather trim, rear-view camera, digital audio with eight speakers, and 18-inch alloy wheels. welcome change it now impinges on space, of which there is not a lot apart from two small cup holders and a small storage compartment in front of the gear lever (that also houses a 12-volt charger) which ended up being the place for the key.