[X-Man]

TopSpeed took a close look at the new Mercedes X-Class and found its capabilities lacking. Right now it seems like people are equating it to a slightly modified Nissan Navara, just with more luxury trimming but not much else. A V-8 powered version wouldn't hurt its competitive edge, or maybe a V-6-powered X43 version.

 

[AMG]

From my perspective, Mercedes should make a rival for Navara, Toyota Hilux and other competitors in that segment, but with a more luxurious features to keep the brand name on the same level. Excluding interior beauties, Mercedes should definitely consider putting V-8 under the hood of X-Class, but I doubt that we will see it.

 

[benzventure]

From my perspective, Mercedes should make a rival for Navara, Toyota Hilux and other competitors in that segment, but with a more luxurious features to keep the brand name on the same level. Excluding interior beauties, Mercedes should definitely consider putting V-8 under the hood of X-Class, but I doubt that we will see it.

Well by default Mercedes can't do that in North America or any developed market like it for the fact people expect premium and that comes at a price well beyond a Narava or Hilux, but in smaller markets they can offer cheaper versions.

 

[X-Man]

The thing with the X-Class is that the pickup doesn't prioritize performance, that's not what it was designed to be. Perhaps with enough interested, they can produce limited edition performance models, but those will cost a lot more than what some are willing to pay.

 

[AMG]

Agree. For this type of pickups, performance isn't the first thing that car makers think about. In my opinion, the X-class' target market is not interested in the performance of this vehicle. The X-class meets the requirements of the modern and luxurious pickup segment, especially if Mercedes will come up with the AMG model.

 

[X-Man]

They're even promoting it to the outdoor sports buyers and they're generally appreciative or more power.

 

[benzventure]

Perfect example of who these will be sold to which comes back to that whole idea of people wanting the luxury of the typical mid-to-high end SUV but the level of utility rarely found. I always thought SUT's were great, too bad the H2T and the like release years before people really wanted them.

 

[X-Man]

There's always going to be those who wish for more in a pickup aside from just hauling the family and everything else from point a to b. Those are the people who would want the X-Class and why shouldn't we travel in comfort? There's plenty of utility models out there, but nothing that really stands out in quality.

 

[benzventure]

There's always going to be those who wish for more in a pickup aside from just hauling the family and everything else from point a to b. Those are the people who would want the X-Class and why shouldn't we travel in comfort? There's plenty of utility models out there, but nothing that really stands out in quality.

That's what i'm saying.... this is the perfect product which essentially builds on the utility part of SUV's. Just look at who is often driving these and you will see young professionals without kids and still have many years to enjoy life before settling down... then in that these active lifestyle choices come into play.

 

[Henrik]

I'm not sure that Mercedes is even interested in making a fully off road capable truck. It has already distinguished itself as a luxury pickup and I have a hard time believing, that those looking for a utility pickup will opt for Mercedes. IMO the possibilities of a more capable off road performance trims is low, as that's going to raise the price substantially higher than most would be willing to pay. Doesn't mean it cant happen, just think its unlikely.