What's the news?
Mercedes-Benz will reveal the expected V6 version of its X-Class one-tonne pick-up at the Geneva Motor Show, taking it to the top of the truck pile in the process.
To be badged the X 350 d 4Matic, this utility vehicle packs a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel, delivering 258hp at 3,400rpm and a giant 550Nm from 1,400- to 3,200rpm. That's enough to shove the X-Class from 0-100km/h in just 7.9 seconds - crucially making it faster than the current benchmark, the Volkswagen Amarok with the V6 engine - and on to a top speed of 205km/h. Economy stands at 9.0 litres/100km (31.4mpg) with 237g/km of CO2 emissions.
The X 350 d, as the sportiest of the X-Class line-up, enjoys its own specific set-up for its advanced (for this class) suspension, while it also gets a Mercedes transmission to go with its Mercedes engine; the other X-Class models use Mercedes developments of the Nissan Navara hardware which the German truck borrows. So, the X 350 d has a 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed automatic transmission, plus 4Matic permanent all-wheel drive and a Dynamic Select switch to cycle the pick-up through various driving modes.
But while it aims to be the best-handling model of the X-Class family, the X 350 d is still mighty off the tarmac. Three different all-wheel drive modes go as far as a full low-range setting, with a reduction gearing of 1:2.9. A 100 per cent rear diff lock is also offered as an option for those who really need to get through the worst terrain possible, while ground clearance of 222mm should help in a variety of rocky situations - as should a wading depth of 600mm, the ability to climb 45-degree inclines and the fact it'll tilt over to very nearly 50 degrees without tipping on its side.
As with the current range-topping X 250 d model, Mercedes will sell the X 350 d with just two plusher trim lines, which are Progressive and Power. Either get keyless entry-and-go and dual-zone climate control, while the top model also enjoys 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights, among more.
Anything else?
Mercedes is expanding the range of accessories for the entire X-Class family, including three new designs of alloy wheel (from 17 to 19 inches in size), a Sports Bar for the load bay area, the option to have the roll-cover for the bed in black and a 'Softcover' for the truck too.