Mercedes-Benz X-Class ute interest prompts supply concerns

Mercedes is yet to reveal the final production version of its production X-Class light commercial ute, but significant and sustained interest in the new model is already prompting the car-maker to consider following the lead of its UK counterparts by taking deposits for the eagerly-awaited model.

A global reveal date has not yet been confirmed, but keen customers have been driven to place ₤1000 ($A1624) deposits in the UK by the concept vehicle alone, as well as news that the Mercedes will share a platform with the also popular Nissan Navara.

Mercedes-Benz Australia PR boss David McCarthy said the company was considering the best response to thousands of X-Class enquiries.

“We'll be looking at doing something later this year in terms of providing an easier vehicle for people to register their interest,” he said.

“We have a website where people can advise their details, and dealers are currently taking details. Expressions of interest are really, really high. We’re talking thousands and thousands.”

If every single one of those expressions of interest bought a car, we’re not going to be able to supply.

The Frankfurt motor show in September is one possible venue for a reveal, but in the absence of an official global launch date, Mr McCarthy said it was difficult to predict but 2018 was the most likely forecast.

“We’re still looking next year. The date’s a bit moveable at the moment; the earlier the better for us. Interest is off the dial.”

With such high demand despite the absence of any technical details or a full view of the vehicle, Mr McCarthy predicted that the X-Class could have a respectable waiting list before the first versions even arrive on local turf.

“If every single one of those expressions of interest bought a car, we’re not going to be able to supply,” he said. “We’ve seen the rise in popularity of dual cabs, and it's only going to grow. The level of interest is extraordinary.”

Exact Australian specifications and pricing is still a long way off, but sales are expected to be strong from both the commercial and private markets – much like the existing pool of one-tonners.

While the German car-maker is not new to the commercial sector with a range of light vans, the ute segment is largely uncharted territory for the three-pointed star, but Mr McCarthy said the recent introduction of the G-Professional marked the company’s commitment to the market.

Mercedes will be eyeing the maximum five-star award from ANCAP when the X-Class goes on sale, which would give the ute a significant advantage in the fleet and commercial market.

A range of accessories for customisation and boosting off-road ability, practicality and aesthetics is expected, with parts sourced from both local and overseas suppliers.

Would you stump cash to reserve one of the first Mercedes X-Class utes? Tell us what you think in the comments below.