Mercedes-Benz Vans has unveiled its new flagship ute based on the diesel V6-powered X 350d 4MATIC: the Mercedes-Benz X-Class Edition 1.
On sale now ahead of first deliveries in July, the special-edition 4x4 dual-cab ute – of which only a “limited” but unspecified number will be available in Australia – is priced at $87,500 plus on-road costs.
The Edition 1 is pricier than the Volkswagen Amarok TDI580 Ultimate ($72,790) and Ford Ranger Raptor ($75,390) -- and also eclipses the cheapest large pick-up, the RAM 1500 Express (from $79,950).
Similar in positioning to special Edition 1 variants of the Mercedes-Benz C 63, GLC 63 and AMG GT models, the three-pointed star’s latest Edition 1 brings a range of blacktops-style cosmetic enhancements over the standard X-Class, which is based on the Nissan Navara.
These include a black three-pointed star and twin-louvre grille, fog light surrounds, plus black bumper highlights, tailgate handle, beltline trim strip, roof rails and 19-inch alloy wheels.
The Edition 1’s blacked-out bling extends to a black rear sports bar, tubular side steps, protective tray-liner and hard tonneau cover.
Three standard metallic paint colours are offered – Kabara black, Bering white and Rock grey – all with contrasting exterior sports stripes on the bonnet, tailgate, lower sides, mirrors and V6 Turbo badge surrounds.
In Kabara black, all exterior parts and stripes are a high-gloss finish with contrasting grey sports stripes, while Bering white and Rock grey models feature a matt-black finish for all exterior parts and stripes, and a colour-coded bed liner.
There are more additions inside: leather-trimmed and heated seats, tinted rear windows, an electric rear window, floor mats with Edition 1 embroidery and a chromed Edition 1 badge on the dash.
The Edition 1 is mechanically unchanged from the Mercedes-Benz X 350d released last December, so it's powered by the same 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 with 190kW and 570Nm, matched with a seven-speed automatic with low-range transfer case and permanent four-wheel drive.