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George - From the world reveal in Cape Town last year to driving the bakkie in Chile, we've been covering Mercedes-Benz's new bakkie, the X-Class, since it was first revealed as a concept.
New bakkie for SA
In March 2018, Wheels24 revealed how much the four-model line up will cost in South Africa , as well as specifications for the Progressive and Power models. The new bakkie will be launched locally in George.
Prices for the new bakkie start from R642 103 for the X220d 4x2 (manual) to R818 340 for the X250d (4X4 Power auto); Auto transmissions are available as an option at an additional R27 025.
Mercedes SA confirms the top-of-the-range V6 X-Class will arrive locally later in 2018.
Prices - effective from April 1: Including VAT and CO2 tax
X-Class X220d 4X2 Progressive (Manual Transmission) - R642 103
X-Class X250d 4X2 Progressive (Automatic Transmission) - R694 025
X-Class X250d 4X4 Progressive (Manual Transmission)- R696 785
X-Class X250d 4X4 Progressive (Automatic Transmission) - R723 810
X-Class X250d 4X4 Power (Manual Transmission) - R791 315
X-Class X250d 4X4 Power (Automatic Transmission) - R818 340
What do you think of the new X-Class pricing? Will it be competitive in South Africa? Email us
Mercedes-Benz has raised the bar in the utility market by creating a unique product – the world’s first "premium bakkie". It says a lot about South Africa’s love of bakkies that the arrival of the new X-Class has been so highly anticipated. Ever since the concept first made its debut, SA fans have been eager to get to grips with Mercedes’ next-generation pick-up.
GALLERY: 2017 Mercedes-Benz X-Class
It combines the comforts of a Mercedes-badged sedan with the practicality of the German automaker’s SUVs, resulting in a vehicle that’s as capable as a lifestyle model as it is taking on the outdoors.
Not a just a fancy Navara!
No, it’s not a ‘Navara with Mascara’… Mercedes is adamant that although the two bakkies share DNA they are vastly different. The X-class has a stiffened chassis, wider body, retuned suspension, infinitely better-equipped interior and vastly better cabin insulation. That being said the four-cylinder variants of the X-Class will use Nissan/Renault engines and transmissions, not to mention the X-Class is built at a Nissan factory alongside the Navara.
Inside, the cabin has all the trimmings and luxury you’d expect from Mercedes, with many elements borrowed from the automaker’s sedans and SUVs (eg floating air vents, pop-out touch screen). Overall it's a great environment to be in with ample space for all passengers. Then there's the tech. Mercedes-Benz has packed its pick-up with the full arsenal of its advanced safety systems and the X-Class benefits from the latest app technology - Mercedes Me. It's an app that allows drivers to access information about their bakkie (i.e servicing, status etc.) via a smartphone, you can even locate it remotely.
There are however elements that speak to its utility focus; harsh, plastic surfaces, utilitarian mats, a simple gearshift lever as well as a serious down grade to its key-fob (it belongs to the Navara!
The design however is outstanding; it’s possibly one the best-looking bakkies on the market. Sure, there are similarities with the Navara but the X-Class has a unique design. The front-end has an aggressive stance with huge chromed-slats and massive LEDs. The rear however is pedestrian in comparison while in profile it has a great silhouette, easily recognisable as something special.
What about optional extras?
Mercedes-Benz Vans Southern Africa said: "Prices detailed are the manufacturer’s recommended retail prices, and exclude optional extras and any dealer associated costs, such as registration, delivery, etc. The X-Class is available with a full range of accessories, which are excluded from the recommended retail prices above."
Mercedes confirmed two design and equipment lines are available in South Africa:
• The X-Class Progressive is aimed at people seeking a rugged bakkie with extra styling and comfort functions, while also being a comfortable yet prestigious vehicle for private or dual use.
• The X-Class Power is the high-end line. Mercedes says 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.
Nadia Trimmel, head of Mercedes-Benz Vans Southern Africa said: "The much-anticipated Mercedes-Benz X-Class is well-positioned to elevate the South African bakkie segment to the next level. It will do this not only by offering a dynamic design paired with luxurious interior and unparalleled performance, but also by being perfectly-priced."
The X-Class comes standard with maintenance plans that covers all models for 100 000km or six-years, whichever occurs first.
According to the automaker: "Mercedes-Benz X-Class is available to be ordered, for delivery from mid-May 2018 (subject to stock availability). To configure your Mercedes-Benz X-Class and for more information on the vehicle and authorised selling outlets, log on to www.x-class.co.za."
Instagram gallery: Click on the arrow (RHS) to view a gallery of the X-Class
