CAR OF THE WEEK

The Xtreme Pickup - Mercedes-Benz X350d Power V6

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Many have argued that, as it is based on the Nissan Navara, the ‘ultra-swanky’ Mercedes-Benz X Class is not deserving of its three-pointed star. Hmmm. Well, I suppose it is true that our X350d does, indeed, remind you of the Navara which provides the bedrock for much of its technical setup. But this is a good thing. Something to breathe a sigh of relief over.

Rather than start completely afresh, experimenting with the odd off-road setting here, and utilising bits of various Mercedes passenger cars there, they instead opted for the know-how, tried-and-tested recipe of one of the world’s toughest, most dedicated car manufacturers. The fact of the matter is, the Nissan Navara, being driven by farmers, builders, and, well, pretty much anyone in a manual industry – poses the perfect base for a more luxurious version – the X350d. Well done Mercedes.

By leaving the difficult stuff to the Japanese, Mercedes could concentrate on what people are going to buy the Merc for – its classy, elegant, professional, executive appeal. Everyone wants a Merc – and if they don’t, they can sure appreciate the history, attention to detail, and build quality that the brand exudes the world over.

If you were dropped in an obscure African country – miles from anywhere – there would be a very high chance that the first car you saw would have a three-pointed star affixed to its front. And that is just about everything that needs to be said.

But, getting back to the X350d…it’s pretty fantastic really. Powered by a 254bhp V6 twin-turbo V6 paired to a tremendous 7-speed automatic gearbox, and trick double wishbone and multi-link rear suspension, you can be sure that this pickup is as refined as any SUV you’ll come across.

The interior is covered in supple Black leather and DINAMICA suede, making it a lovely place to be, and you’ve got all the mod cons you could want. Importantly, the 4Matic system is no gimmick. Change between 4High and 4Low depending on which terrain you’re on. Massive torque reserves (550Nm in all) and clever hill-descent control allow for maximum adjustability.

Have you always wanted a pickup but always felt like you would be forced to compromise on comfort? Well, this is the car for you. Equally, if you’ve been used to the same utilitarian machinery for too long, and fancy a change, just give us a call.

Nissan and Mercedes. You don’t need to whisper that the latter is inspired by the former. The two complement one another wonderfully.

Finished in Kabara Black metallic with Black leather and DINAMICA microfibre interior. Our One Owner Mercedes-Benz X350d Power 4Matic V6 is offered in excellent condition and has covered 13,550 miles. The vehicle comes with a Mercedes-Benz main dealer Service History. All cars come with a comprehensive platinum 6-month RAC warranty and the benefit of a 12-month roadside assist. Why not request a personal video on this vehicle?

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