One doesn’t simply slap a Mercedes-Benz logo onto a Nissan Navara and not expect it to retail at close to a bar. Okay, as it stands the new X-Class range tops out at R791,315 in manual (even more with the optional automatic gearbox) which is A LOT OF MONEY! But still quite short of a million Rand.
It is, however, a X250d 4-cyl diesel derivative, not the flagship V6-powered X350d that is due to arrive near the latter half of 2018, blessed with an Amarok 3.0 TDI V6-baiting 190kW and 550Nm V6 mill, a vehicle that will certainly get close to the aforementioned R1,000,000 sticker. Price aside, there’s a lot to reflect on here, such as the fact that there’ll be both 4×2 and 4×4 models available with manual and automatic transmissions.
Now we’ll admit to being facetious about the Nissan Navara connection but the fact that the X-Class is based on the Japanese automaker’s beloved bakkie is no secret – the German truck even shares its engines and gearboxes with the Navara. It’s a double-cab often berated for its price but when seen in comparison to the Merc is suddenly a bargain prospect.
Still, if you absolutely must climb those curbs in something with the three-pointed star on its prow then you’ll now have that privilege as long as you’re paid to pay a premium (calculated on average across several rivals) of approximately R150,000 over competitors in its segment. And that is by any means a lot of money for a badge.
Pricing:
| X220d 4×2 Progressive Manual | R642,103.00 |
| X250d 4×2 Progressive Auto | R694,025.00 |
| X250d 4×4 Progressive manual (optionally with auto) | R696,785.00 |
| X250d 4×4 Power manual (optionally with auto) | R791,315.00 |
