Mercedes-Benz X-Class spied

The long anticipate Mercedes ute has been seen trucking through the Arctic Circle ahead of its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

The ute, which is expected to be badged as a Mercedes-Benz X-Class, appears to carry styling cues from Mercedes’ SUVs, the Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLE Coupe, and features a wide grille and swept back headlights and a double-cab body on a ladder chassis.

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The rear features slim tail-lights and a removable bumper to make loading the tray easier.

True to Mercedes form, we can expect a premium interior with a focus on design and technology. The ute will likely be packed with safety features and driver assistance, as the German-brand moves into the ute segment to offer a more comfortable and luxurious offering while still carrying the same ruggedness and tough off-road ability as its competitors.

Underneath, the X-Class will share a platform with the Nissan Navara, although a four-litre petrol and six-cylinder diesel engine are probably more likely for the workhorse ute, with rumours also suggesting a petrol-hybrid variant.

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The spy shots confirmed speculation of the Mercedes-Benz ute after the automaker unveiled a concept in Stockholm, Sweden last year. Two models were shown at the time with a Concept X-Class Stylish Explorer and a Concept X-Class Powerful Explorer, one featuring luxe, urban-friendly interiors while the other taking on a more adventurous look.

“With the Mercedes-Benz pick-up, we will close one of the last gaps in our portfolio," Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the board of Daimler AG and head of Mercedes-Benz Cars said at the time of the concept reveal. "Our target: we want to offer customers vehicles matching their specific needs. The X-Class will set new standards in a growing segment.”

At this stage, Australia is expected to be one of the five key markets to receive the X-Class along with Argentina, Brazil, South Africa and Europe.