Mercedes-Benz teases X-Class ahead of July 18 reveal

MERCEDES-BENZ has commenced a teaser campaign for its first-ever pick-up, the X-Class, with a video of the new model in production trim released ahead of an official reveal on July 18.

The 65-second clip offers the first glimpse at Mercedes’ fourth commercial vehicle, revealing several elements of its exterior look in dimly lit conditions with the tagline “first of a new kind’’.

Riding on the same underpinnings as the Nissan Navara/Renault Alaskan twins, the X-Class appears to share exact dual-cab design elements – including doors, glasshouse, roof racks and side steps – with its Japanese counterpart, but with wider front and rear tracks.

Meanwhile, large 12-spoke alloy wheels and a sports bar complete its side profile look.

The X-Class’ squarish front-end design is reminiscent of the German car-maker’s GLS full-size SUV, with chrome-accented twin-bar grille and bumper bar insert, as well as LED daytime running lights (DRLs) that wrap around its headlights.

Thus, the final design is not as pronounced as the two Concept X-Class one-tonne utes revealed in October last year, which had slim headlights and a large mesh front bumper bar insert.

However, the rear-end is closer to form with its vertical tail-lights that feature two LED lines around their outer-circumference, specifically matching that of the Powerful Adventurer concept.

A chrome rear bumper bar is located beneath with a single exhaust pipe on the right-hand side, eschewing both concepts’ designs for a more traditional look.

As previously reported, the X-Class will only be offered with a dual-cab body style, while it will not be marketed as a rugged workhouse for tradespeople or off-road enthusiasts.

Benz’s utility will be available in several model grades – ranging from entry-level to high-end – but will be pitched as a premium product above the venerable Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger.

Exact powertrain details remain under wraps, but two Renault-Nissan four-cylinder engines – one diesel and one petrol – have already been confirmed, as well as a manual gearbox and 4x2 driveline.

Flagship variants will be propelled by Mercedes’ own V6 turbo diesel, with power sent to the ground via the company’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.

Additionally, the pick-up will sport a unique five-link rear suspension with coil springs, as well as a specially calibrated spring and damper setup.

Australia will source the X-Class from a Renault-Nissan Alliance factory in Barcelona, Spain, whereas the local Navara is imported from Thailand.

Other than Australia, primary markets for the one-tonner include Argentina, Brazil, South Africa and Europe.

Demand for the X-Class is so high in the United Kingdom that, since February, local Benz dealers have been charging 1000 ($A1492) deposits to secure a place on its waiting list.

Production of the utility will kick off later this year, with Aussie deliveries scheduled to begin in 2018.

The X-Class’s arrival cannot come a moment sooner for Mercedes as local pick-up sales are booming, with both the HiLux and Ranger – the country’s two best-selling new cars – exceeding 5000 units sold each last month.