Mercedes-Benz X-Class V6 confirmed for 2018 arrival

Mercedes-Benz Vans has confirmed the V6 all-wheel drive X350d will join the X-Class line-up towards the end of this year following the four-cylinder X220d and X250d launch in April.

Under the bonnet of the X350d is a 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel V6 engine, matched up to a seven-speed automatic transmission, sending power to a permanent all-wheel-drive system.

The bigger engine helps deliver a 0-100km/h sprint time of 7.9 seconds, up from 11.8 seconds in the top-spec four-cylinder X250d variant.

The diesel six-cylinder is pegged at 190kW/3400rpm and 550Nm/1400-3200rpm, with claimed, combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 9.0L/100km, and a CO2 emissions rating of 237g/km.

For perspective, the Nissan Navara-sourced 2.3-litre engine found in the X220d and X250d is rated at 120kW/403Nm and 140kW/450Nm, respectively.

The X350d features five 'Dynamic Select' driver modes: 'Comfort', 'ECO', 'Sport', 'Manual' and 'Offroad', with each mode modifying the engine and transmission characteristics.

Comfort and ECO mode changes gears at particularly low engine speeds, Sport ups the throttle sensitivity and allows for a broader use of the rev-range, Manual lets the driver shift manually via the steering wheel paddles and Offroad adjusts the mapping to suit difficult terrain.

Manual mode lets the driver shift gears manually via the steering wheel paddles.

In addition to the five Dynamic Select driver modes, the all-wheel drive system features three modes; 4MAT, 4H and low-range 4L.

Mercedes-Benz Vans Australia is yet to reveal pricing details, although we know the X350d is available for €53,360 (AU$84,045) in Germany. If the European figure reflects local pricing, then the V6 X-Class could be the most expensive ute on the Australian market.

Pricing for the four-cylinder X-Class models will range between $45,450 and $64,500 before on-road costs when it is launched locally in April.

While the four-cylinder X-Class will be offered in three trim levels, the V6 will be available in just two; 'Progressive' and 'Power'.

The entry-level Progressive variant is equipped with 17-inch wheels, leather-lined steering wheel, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, black fabric seats and an eight-speaker sound system.

The Power variant adds 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, chrome-plated front bash plate and rear bumper, an Artico-leather interior and electronically-adjustable seats.

Does the addition of V6 power make the X-Class more appealing? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.