Mercedes-Benz X-Class Review

Critic reviews

How does the Mercedes Benz X-Class compare with its peers?

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Name	Product	Payload	ANCAP rating	Price (from)	Finder Score
Ram 1500		845 kg	5 stars	$82,950	86%		loading Fetching your data...
Ford Ranger		945 kg	5 stars	$29,190	85%		loading Fetching your data...
Volkswagen Amarok		1,020 kg	5 stars	$38,490	85%		loading Fetching your data...
Isuzu D-Max		935 kg	5 stars	$31,200	81.5%		loading Fetching your data...
Mazda BT-50		1,039 kg	5 stars	$33,650	81%		loading Fetching your data...
Mitsubishi Triton		855 kg	5 stars	$22,490	80.5%		loading Fetching your data...
Holden Colorado		1,029 kg	5 stars	$29,490	80%		loading Fetching your data...
Nissan Navara		1,013 kg	5 stars	$32,300	79.8%		loading Fetching your data...
Toyota HiLux		995 kg	5 stars	$29,850	79.67%		loading Fetching your data...
GWM Ute		1,050 kg	5 stars	$34,990	78%		loading Fetching your data...
Mercedes-Benz X-Class		1,188 kg	5 stars	$45,450	72.5%		loading Fetching your data...

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Mercedes Benz X-Class Pricing

The X-Class ute starts from $51,554.85. This has to be the most expensive work spec ute on the market. For the money, you'll get a two-wheel-drive ute with a cab chassis, ready for fitting a tray. This model has more plastic trim around the body for increased protection.

The most expensive ute is the X350d POWER model with 4WD and a seven-speed automatic gearbox. This model retails for $86,933.85 drive away.

Metallic paints are an optional extra cost.

Prices shown are for NSW.

Click on the model you're interested in to compare finance options.

X-Class PURE

X-Class PROGRESSIVE

X-Class POWER

The above prices are the manufacturer's recommended driveaway price (MRDP). These costs include 12 months' rego and compulsory third-party insurance (average cost for a 40-year-old driver). They also include dealer-delivery rates and stamp duty.

Engine and performance

The Mercedes-Benz X-Class is available with either a 2.3-litre four-cylinder diesel or a V6 diesel. The four-cylinder diesel was jointly developed by Nissan and Renault and comes in two different tunes. As the X220d, it makes 120kw @ 3,750rpm. 403 Nm of torque hits between 1,500rpm and 2,500rpm. Benz turns up the dial on the engine for the X250d Pure, Progressive and Power models. This engine is twin turbocharged (as opposed to single) and creates another 20kw, making 140kw @ 3,750rpm. Torque figures also jump to a pretty much class standard of 450 Nm @ 1,500-2,500rpm.

Mercedes also gives buyers the option of a V6 engine. This 3.0-litre monster is an all Benz engine and appears to be gunning for homeland competitors like VW's Amarok V6.

Buyers after the larger V6 can pick between the X350d Progressive or X350d Power. In these utes, the engine conjures up 190kW @ 3,400rpm. Regular trailer and caravan towers will enjoy 550 Nm of torque at their disposal from 1,400-3,200rpm.

Car reviewers thoughts on the Mercedes-Benz X-Class engine/gearbox line-up

How did reviewers rate the Merc's engine solid and transmission pairings? For the 250d, testers felt the engine was refined and was highly useable. With the seven-speed auto making use of taller gearing, journalists applauded Mercedes for a commendable effort.

On the roads, it was summed up as delivering a solid performance. It seems that most testers preferred the V6, but with a larger displacement, power output and kerb weight, it will drink more fuel than the four-cylinder-equipped utes. Merc invited reviewers to a Slovenia launch for the V6 X-Class. There, the speed limit is 130km/h and many journos said even at that speed, the engine was barely having to work. The 350d trim was also described as flagship, with more Mercedes parts added to the Nissan F-Alpha platform-based pick-up.

Transmission-wise, the X-Class can be had with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic gearbox. Across all four-cylinder X-Class utes, the manual transmission is a standard fitment. For 250d Pure and Progressive dual-cabs, you can opt for the automatic and on V6 models the automatic is your only option. Unusually for the ute market, there's no automatic RWD model. Instead, your automatic Benz pick-up is permanently 4WD.

Reviewers praised the autobox models for snappy shifts and the ability to select comfort or sport modes. One or two noted while cog-swapping is generally seamless, when towing, downshifts are occasionally clunky.

For those who need to venture beyond the asphalt, there's the ability to swap into low-range and an optional locking diff.

Mercedes-Benz X-Class engine and transmission statistics

Fuel Efficiency

X-Class fuel economy figures are pretty much in line with those of its competitors. We've listed the official figures below.

For the X220d PURE RWD X-Class model, fuel usage is listed as follows:

• Combined: 7.6L/100km
• Urban: 8.3L/100km
• Extra urban: 7.2L/100km

4MATIC PURE models with the extra set of driven wheels have more rotating mass to the drivetrain and a higher kerb weight.

• Combined: 7.8L/100km
• Urban: 8.5L/100km
• Extra urban: 7.4L/100km

The X250d engine has more power and torque, again affecting fuel consumption.

• Combined: 7.7L/100km manual or 7.9L/100km automatic
• Urban: 8.5L/100km manual or 9.7L/100km automatic
• Extra urban: 7.3L/100km manual or 6.9L/100km automatic

Finally, the X350d models are heavier again, with more equipment and the larger engine adding kilos on to the kerb weight.

• Combined: 8.8L/100km
• Urban: 10L/100km
• Extra urban: 8.1L/100km

If fuel use is a concern or you spend a lot of time driving around urban areas, the V6 will prove pretty costly. On the other hand, an X220d Pure RWD is acceptably frugal.

One thing to note: the official figures are calculated using 81/02 ADR tests. Real-world and achievable fuel economy numbers differ from these tests. On public roads, there are many factors that will impact on fuel usage including an individual's driving style, road conditions, traffic, environmental factors, vehicle maintenance and the number of accessories fitted. Use these brochure numbers only as a guide for comparing different models.

Testers typically achieved figures about 0.7L/100km higher and when towing the difference can grow up to 15% from the factory figures.

Handling

Overall, it seems the X-Class improves upon the Navara’s handling, thanks to a few key changes. Merc engineers widened the track by 70mm and sped up the steering rack. This contributes to what most appraisers said was a planted drive. While not class-leading, one motoring critic said it was “fairly impressive”.

Other media outlets warned buyers not to expect a Mercedes passenger car-like ride. But let’s be fair, this is a ute. You should anticipate the handling to be firm. Testers found the X-Class to occasionally jolt over large bumps at the rear but discovered the suspension settled things down pretty quickly. Other reviews talked about the steering on the X-Class being reasonably responsive.

Like its twin under the skin, the Navara, things become unstuck once loaded up. This is in part thanks to the rear coil-spring suspension, where most ute builders fit some good old fashioned leaf-springs. In pictures of the X-Class carrying loads back in the tray, you’ll see it sags noticeably.

Off-road, an X-Class can hold its own. Thanks to a high/low range transfer case, Hill Descent Control and other clever tech such as a 360-degree camera, journalists realised that the X-Class works well once the terrain gets uneven. It doesn’t have best in class offroad dimensions but it certainly appears to get by.

Interior

The ute market has evolved a lot over the last decade, with buyers asking manufacturers to create high-end premium lifestyle dual-cabs, in addition to workhorse models. Mercedes is no exception.

First, universally all reviewers picked up on how the Merc is extremely quiet internally. Engineers obviously spent a lot of time endeavouring to lower the noise, vibration and harshness. Their efforts were not in vain. Some testers even likened it to a passenger car in terms of cancelling out the droning rumble of wind and tyres.

Tradies and farmers, who can be quite hard on their vehicles, should probably stick to Pure line utes. Mercedes strips out the high-end cabin luxuries of the premium models and sticks to tough plastics. You’ll find that the steering wheel and gear selector are plastic and that the centre console lacks a lid. Rubber floors finish off this utilitarian interior.

Progressive spec starts to move away from the basic workhorse cabin and brings with it a DAB radio and eight speakers. The steering wheel is covered in a leather material with chrome highlights.

For buyers who want a little refinement and class, the Power trim introduces man-made leather to the steering wheel and seats. You also get keyless entry, dual-zone climate control and a larger 8.4-inch infotainment screen.

Most reviewers lamented the lack of interior storage when compared with the Navara. The rear of the cabin, despite being wider than the Navara, was still said to be too cramped to be properly comfortable.

Mercedes-Benz X-Class safety and driver assists

The X-Class has a long list of safety equipment as standard.

Mercedes-Benz X-Class communication and in-vehicle features

Mercedes-Benz X-Class exterior features

Verdict

The X-Class is well equipped, well built and has a long list of safety tech and equipment. Almost all reviews couldn't overlook the price. It has to be one of the most expensive, non-American import utes in Australia. While it offers a lot of goodies to make up for that, including a quiet interior, a silky smooth V6 and the Benz badge, you may consider opting instead for something like a V6 Amarok.

Compare some options to finance a Mercedes Benz X-Class

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Name	Interest Rate (p.a.)	Comp. Rate (p.a.)	Application Fee	Monthly Fee	Monthly Repayment
loans.com.au - New - Variable Rate Special Variable3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 6.24% to 7.74%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 7.36% to 8.85%	Application Fee $400	Monthly Fee $8	Monthly Repayment $936.14	Go to siteMore Info Compare
OurMoneyMarket New Car Loan Fixed1 - 7 Years $2,001 - $75,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 6.57% to 18.99%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 7.19% to 21.78%	Application Fee $250 min.	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $934.23	Go to siteMore Info Compare
Stratton Finance New Car Loan Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $300,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 6.52% to 18%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 6.95% to 23%	Application Fee $395	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $931.85	Go to siteMore Info Compare	You'll receive a fixed rate from 6.52% p.a. depending on the lender you are approved with. Apply for up to $300,000 and use cash or trade in a vehicle to use as a deposit. Optional balloon payment available.
Verified Lending Used Car Loan Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $200,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 7.1% to 18.99%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 8.06% to 22.99%	Application Fee $395	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $939.9	Go to siteMore Info Compare
NRMA New Car Loan Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $130,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 7.29% to 16.99%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 8% to 17.77%	Application Fee $499	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $945.77	Go to siteMore Info Compare	Note: Take out a loan for an eligible electric vehicle and receive a 1.5% discount on your personalised interest rate (interest rates start from 5.79% p.a. and comparison rates from 6.49% p.a.)
OurMoneyMarket Used Car Loan - No Vehicle Age Limit Fixed1 - 7 Years $2,001 - $75,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 6.57% to 18.99%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 7.19% to 21.78%	Application Fee $250 min.	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $934.23	Go to siteMore Info Compare
NRMA Used Car Loan Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $130,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 8.49% to 16.99%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 9.21% to 17.77%	Application Fee $499	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $962.64	Go to siteMore Info Compare	You'll receive a fixed rate from 8.49% p.a. Finance a used car with NRMA and benefit from a fixed rate term and no monthly fees. Pre-approval available within 5 business hours.
Stratton Finance Used Car Loan Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $300,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 6.52% to 18%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 6.95% to 23%	Application Fee $395	Monthly Fee $0	Monthly Repayment $931.85	Go to siteMore Info Compare	You'll receive a fixed rate loan from 6.52% p.a. with a comparison rate of 6.95% p.a. A used car loan of up to $300,000 with quick approval times and balloon payment options.
loans.com.au - Variable Rate Used Car < 5 years Variable3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000	Interest Rate (p.a.) 7.74% to 7.74%	Comp. Rate (p.a.) 8.85% to 8.99%	Application Fee $400	Monthly Fee $8	Monthly Repayment $956.98	Go to siteMore Info Compare

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Name	Product	Roadside assistance	Accidental damage	Storm	Choice of repairer	Agreed or Market Value
Budget Direct Comprehensive Finder Award		Optional			Optional	Agreed or Market	Finder's summary: The 2024 winner of our Best Value Car Insurance award. It's cheaper than most, plus you can lower costs by adding age restrictions. ⭐ Current offer: 15% off your first year's premium when you take out a policy online. T&Cs apply. Who it might be good for: Anyone who wants a good value policy.	Get Quote View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Youi Comprehensive Finder Award					Optional	Agreed or Market	Finder's summary: The 2023 winner of our Best Features Car Insurance award. Plus, it's one of the only insurers to automatically include roadside assistance. Who it might be good for: Those who want good customer service with lots of inclusions.	Get Quote View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Australia Post Comprehensive					Optional	Agreed or Market	Finder's summary: Covers a little more than other insurers. You don’t need to pay an excess for windscreen repairs and cover applies to anyone who uses your car. ⭐ Current offer: Get $75 off your first year's comprehensive car insurance premium when you buy online. T&Cs apply. Who it might be good for: Multiple people using one car.	Get Quote View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
ROLLiN' Comprehensive						Agreed	Finder's summary: One of the most cost-effective insurers for under 25s, according to Finder research, with no aged-based excess. Who it might be good for: Young drivers looking to keep costs down and anyone who’d like to get more flexibility from their car insurance.	Get Quote View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
QBE Comprehensive Green Company					Optional	Agreed or Market	Finder's summary: Our best-rated Car Insurer for Customer Satisfaction in 2021/2022 and Green Insurer for the last 3 years. ⭐ Current offer: Save $75 when you purchase a new comprehensive policy online. T&Cs apply. Who it might be good for: Those who want a trustworthy insurer and more cover than other brands, such as 3-year new car replacement (e.g. they'll give you money for a new car for up to 3 years if yours is written off).	Get Quote View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Bingle Comprehensive Finder Award						Market	Finder's summary: Our data shows it’s the cheapest comprehensive policy. It just covers the basics such as damage to your car, theft and storms – it doesn’t go in for add-ons and extras. Who it might be good for: Those wanting a low-cost, no-frills policy.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Kogan Comprehensive					Optional	Agreed or Market	Finder's summary: Kogan comes with all the perks that most comprehensive car insurance policies include, but you'll also be entitled to some benefits from its online store. This usually comes in the form of a gift voucher or discount if you buy online. ⭐ Current offer: Get $80 off first year premiums when you purchase Kogan Comprehensive Car Insurance online + $10 monthly kogan.com credit. T&Cs apply. Who it might be good for: Kogan shoppers and those after a good range of policy options.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Qantas Comprehensive		Optional			Optional	Agreed or Market	Finder's summary: You need car insurance so why not get one that lets you earn Qantas Points? It's good value too (it's underwritten by the same insurer as Budget Direct). ⭐ Current offer: Earn up to 30,000 Qantas Points with every Qantas Car Insurance policy you take out by 28 May. T&Cs apply. Who it might be good for: People who want more bang for their buck with Qantas Points.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
ahm Comprehensive		Optional				Agreed or Market	Finder's summary: Its "pay as you drive" cover can save you up to 30% compared to its standard comprehensive cover. There's also no excess to pay if you hit a Kanga or other animal. ⭐ Current offer: Get 12 months of roadside assistance included when you take out a new comprehensive car insurance policy. T&Cs apply. Who it might be good for: Rural drivers and those who drive less than 15,000 km a year.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Club Comprehensive 4x4 Insurance		Optional				Agreed or Market	Finder's summary: With Club 4X4, you can take advantage of Australia-wide cover for your 4WDs or 4x4. Importantly, insurance extends to modifications and accessories. Also, get peace of mind with personal effects cover of up to $2,000, plus, up to $1500 towards the cost of recovering your off-road vehicle if you get in trouble. Who it might be good for: Drivers of 4WDs or 4x4s looking for wide-ranging protection ahead of their next driving adventure.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Coles Comprehensive		Optional				Agreed or Market	Finder’s summary: Mid-range cover and price but very good for perks. Double Flybuys points and $10 off at Coles every time you redeem 2,000 points, plus 1-week turnaround on repairs. ⭐ Current offer: 15% off your first year’s premium when you take out a policy online. T&Cs apply. Who it might be good for: Those who want a wide-ranging policy with added bonuses that allow savings on everyday bills.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Bendigo Bank Comprehensive						Agreed or Market	Finder's summary: On top of the essentials, cover includes a nationwide repair network, 3-year new car replacement and up to $30m in liability insurance. Who it might be good for: Those wanting peace of mind with lots of benefits.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Huddle Black Comprehensive						Agreed or Market	Finder's summary: This goes further than most insurers. You get up to 2k for stolen keys, roadside assistance and rental car excess cover (for car rentals in Australia). Who it might be good for: Those who want top cover for their car.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Huddle Comprehensive		Optional				Agreed or Market	Finder's summary: Huddle's comprehensive policy will cover you if your vehicle is damaged or lost as a result of a collision, a natural event, a malicious act, theft or fire. It also includes up to $500 for essential repairs. Who it might be good for: Someone who drives less than 15,000 km a year can opt for Pay As You Drive cover.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
KOBA Pay per KM						Agreed	Finder's summary: KOBA uses a pay-per-km system – ideal if you drive less. Its app is easy to use and costs can be as cheap as 3¢ per kilometre. Who it might be good for: Those who don't drive long distances, such as city drivers.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Budget Direct Third Party Property, Fire and Theft Finder Award		Optional				Market	Save 15% on your first year's premium when you purchase a new policy online. T&Cs apply.	Get Quote View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Youi Third Party Fire and Theft					Optional	Agreed or Market	Up to $20 million legal liability cover and 24/7 claims team.	Get Quote View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Bendigo Bank Third Party Fire and Theft						Agreed or Market	Get up to $30m in liability cover, $5,000 in protection against uninsured drivers, towing costs and more with Bendigo Bank’s midweight policy.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Qantas Third Party Property, Fire and Theft		Optional				Market	Earn Qantas Points when you sign up. T&Cs apply.	View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Youi Third Party Property Damage							⭐ Current offer: Covered up to $5,000 for accidental damage to your car caused by an uninsured third party. Who it might be good for: Drivers who want a reliable insurer. It was the 2022 Insurer of the Year for Customer Satisfaction.	Get Quote View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...

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Pictures: Mercedes Benz