Mercedes-Benz launches new bakkie

WITH A POWERFUL SIX-CYLINDER engine, 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, the new X350d 4MATIC flagship model develops 190 kW and a peak torque of 550Nm.

The tough performance double cab completes the sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds. Permanent all-wheel drive ensures high levels of driving stability and handling dynamics both on and off the road.

The Mercedes-Benz X-Class The demand for midsize double cabs with typical passenger car characteristics and comfort features has been steadily on the rise for years. At the same time, the number of double cabs for private use is increasing. They are no longer viewed purely as ‘workhorses’. As the first premium manufacturer, expect Mercedes-Benz to lead the way once again, having flexed itself from commercial and off-road vehicles such as the Unimog and the G-Class for ‘tough work’ to the V-Class and Vito, which are equally suitable for work or leisure. When it comes to double cabs, the four-cylinder X-Class ushered in the premium segment, and now, with the X-Class V6, the three-pointed star is aiming straight for executive-level businessowners, families with an affinity for premium products, trend-conscious individuals, as well as sporty and enthusiastic adventurers.

Superior performance and fast gearshifts The 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel engine with common-rail direct injection impresses with its sheer assertiveness. Its maximum torque of 550Nm is available over a wide engine speed range from 1400 to 3200rpm. This means that high torque is already available from low engine speeds.

DYNAMIC SELECT for an individual choice of driving characteristics With a choice of five driving modes, the engine response can be changed by fingertip control – from relaxed and comfortable to sporty and dynamic. Comfort: This mode is activated automatically when the engine starts. It provides comfort, emphasising harmonious accelerator characteristics as well as early shift points. Eco: 7G-TRONIC PLUS changes the gears at particularly low engine speeds. Sport: The engine responds more immediately to throttle input. The automatic transmission makes use of the entire engine speed range to change gears, and shifts at higher engine speeds. Manual: The automatic transmission can be manually operated using the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. This leads to far shorter shift times than in the Comfort and Eco programmes. Off-road: This mode is suitable for driving on challenging terrain. It offers higher shift points and a flatter, and therefore more precisely adjustable, accelerator characteristic curve.

The ECO start/stop function is available in all driving modes except off-road mode.

4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive for driving on and off the road The 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with low-range reduction gear and differential lock on the rear axle ensures excellent performance and traction on a wide range of driving surfaces.

Choose from three all-wheeldrive modes.