In recent years though, the bakkie has been sent in a different direction, with premium levels of everything rating above load-lugging. As its focus has shifted, so has the uptake of decidedly un-bakkie manufactures, namely Volkswagen with the Amarok and off course more recently, Mercedes-Benz with the somewhat controversial X-class.
Now months after the much hyped-up launch of the three-pointed star’s first bakkie, which soon after becoming the topic of ridicule by some for being described as an overpriced, re-skinned and slightly plusher version of the model on which it is based, the Nissan Navara, as well as being powered by the same range of Renault sourced engines, Mercedes-Benz has now gone all-out by introducing the X350d.
Officially the most powerful new bakke on-sale in the country today, I recently flew down to Cape Town to sample what also the most expensive double cab you can buy at present.
The looks
Aside from the addition of a “V6 Turbo” badge on the front fenders and an “X350d” logo on the tailgate, there is very little to differentiate the newcomer from its lesser X250d sibling on first glance. In fact, while I would have personally liked a few more tell-tail cues, the X350d’s discreet touches works in its favour as it still looks as classy as before, but with the obvious difference reserved for underneath its bonnet.
What about inside?
Like with its exterior, the X350d’s interior is nearly unchanged from lesser X-class models, with most of the bits-and-pieces appearing to have been lifted from the C-class, namely the tablet-like Comand infotainment system with its rotary dial and the steering wheel.
The not-to-unexpected bugbear, however, is the presence of parts taken out from the Nissan parts-bin, such as the gear lever, window switches and key, in spite of the vehicle at launch being fitted with plush looking, if impractical, tan leather upholstery and a slab of faux wood detailing on the dashboard.
That engine
As indicated, the main talking point of the X350d is its engine, which, in typical Mercedes-Benz fashion, does not conform to the designation it portrays. In fact, like the Volkswagen Amarok V6 TDI, the X350d’s motor displaces 3.0-litres and is a Benz specific unit currently being used in the S-class and GLS.
With its outputs of 190kW/550Nm, the bent-six not only made for smooth and effortless progress, but the latter output also came to the fore off-road. Equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic permanent four-wheel drive system with three modes; 4MAT, 4H and 4L, I was able to complete the laid-out route in the former setting without needing to engage low range or activate the rear or centre diff-lock.
On the road
Out on the twisty bits of the flowing roads and passes surrounding the Mother City, the X350d really came into its own. Admittedly, while the big Benz is no sports car and felt a bit heavy, it still has a fair degree of dynamism about it, while the 7G Tronic gearbox and updated ride made for an overall enjoyable experience.
Verdict
It might have the power, the prestige of the three-pointed star logo on its grille and arguably the ability to give a few hot hatches a bloody nose between the lights in its favour, the biggest and most troubling elephant in the room remains the X350d’s price tag.
Regardless whether you opt for the entry-level Progressive or the flagship Power, the attributes that make it good simply don’t justify a near-on one-million Rand sticker price for a bakkie also wanting to be a luxury SUV, and which will, unfortunately, continue to be seen as anything but a true Mercedes-Benz.
Pricing
X350d Progressive R904 188
X350d Power R973 188
