The new Mercedes-Benz X-Class pickup is now available to buy in the UK.

The Mercedes-Benz X-Class pickup is now on sale at UK dealers. Prices start from £27,310 +VAT and first deliveries are now expected in January 2018.

Customers who took advantage of Mercedes’ reservation offer earlier this year will be able to get a jump on new buyers, as their vehicles are expected in November/December.

In either case, first impressions are that X-Class buyers will be treated to a high-spec pickup that’s great to drive and is far more than just a rebadged Nissan Navara.

The X-Class is available in a refreshingly small number of combinations. Only three trim levels are available, and all models will feature a crew cab. Here’s a summary of what to expect:

• Engine: Renault-sourced 2.3l common rail diesel engine. Available with a single turbocharger and 163hp, or with a two-stage turbo setup and 190hp.
• Payload & towing: A one-tonne payload for the load bed, plus a hefty 3.5-tonne towing capacity.
• Trim levels: In ascending order of luxury, buyers can choose PURE, PROGRESSIVE or POWER variants. Pure is billed as being for “classic robust use” and features unpainted bumpers and steel wheels. At the other end of the spectrum, Power is “a high-end variant for urban lifestyles” and comes with leather, 18-inch alloys, chrome trim, electric seats and keyless ignition.
• V6 / AMG model: Of course, this is a Mercedes, so a performance version isn’t optional. A V6-engined X-Class delivering 258hp is expected at some point in 2018. Expect an AMG performance version to follow a little later…

Inside the Mercedes-Benz X-Class

As you’d expect from a German car maker, there’s a fairly sizeable option list. The X-Class is available with seven option packages, tailored to different trim levels.

For example, X-Class Power buyers can opt for a Style Package with privacy glass, larger alloy wheels and running boards.

At the other end of the scale, buyers of Pure models may want to opt for the Plus Package, which adds parking sensors and a load rail securing system.

Buyers of all models who actually plan to use their vehicles off road may want to consider the optional diff lock, which is available for £495 +VAT. An extra 20mm of ground clearance can be added for £220 +VAT.

In my view, it’s clear that Mercedes is aiming squarely for lifestyle and owner/driver buyers. I don’t see corporate fleets buying many of these.

But early reviews indicate that it’s one of the best models on the market to drive and has a quality interior. Anyone who ends up behind the wheel seems likely to be fairly happy with their choice.