First pictures of Mercdes-Benz 1-tonne pick-up

The first pictures of the Mercedes-Benz 1-tonne pick-up have been released, showing hot weather testing in Spain. The manufacturer had already announced its plans to enter the intensely contested pick-up market but is expected to reveal the truck by the end of the year, possibly at the Paris motor show, where it could be given the name X-Class.

Alternative rumours suggest the model could continue the company’s 4x4 naming strategy and be given a GLT badge, a nod to the GLS name used on its large premium SUV. The pick-up is likely to be aimed at the higher end of the 4x4 market, a competitor to the Volkswagen Amarok, which gets a powerful V6 engine.

The Mercedes truck will use the Nissan NP300 Navara platform and with it, is likely to adopt the 2.3-litre 4-cylinder diesel and multi-link coil-sprung rear suspension. Expect a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, excellent on- and off-road driving manners, and the option of a full leather interior with plenty of chrome – not to mention a suitably expensive price tag.