Mercedes-Benz X-Class review

Although the idea of a premium pick-up truck may seem slightly oxymoronic, the X-Class’s cabin is undoubtedly a cut above its rivals as far as quality and aesthetic appeal is concerned.

Sure, a predominantly utilitarian character still pervades – owing to its chunky switchgear and large expanses of plastics to be found on the dashboard and door cards – but Mercedes has done a good job of masking the X-Class’s relationship with the more financially accessible Navara.

Uninspiring gearlever looks like a relic from the 1990s and is a bit of a giveaway to the car’s Nissan Navara origins

Matt Saunders

Road test editor

Chrome-outlined, X-shaped air vents help to draw the eye in and are surprisingly pleasing to the touch, while a large, patterned panel covers the expanse of the central fascia to provide a welcome visual respite from those plastics found in the lower sections of the cabin.

The 7.0in infotainment display is perched tidily on the upper reaches of the dash, while the familiar combination of touchpad and rotary dial controls lie on the centre console.

In truth, though, chances are you’ll avoid using the touchpad, because it isn’t particularly easy to use while on the move – particularly if you’re right-handed. The rotary dial is far more ergonomic, although the system just isn’t as fluid or responsive as you’d like it to be, with a noticeable delay between physical input and digital output.

Still, features such as Bluetooth connectivity, DAB radio and satellite navigation are all present and correct. For £2670, you can opt to upgrade to the Comand Online navigation system, which adds a larger, 8.4in high-resolution display, 3D mapping and live traffic information, among other features. Our test vehicle was also fitted with the £1098 Parking package, which adds a useful 360deg camera system that provides a bird’s-eye view of the 5.34m-long X-Class.

Despite the greater visual appeal of the X-Class’s cabin over the likes of the Navara and Volkswagen Amarok – which is arguably its closest rival in this segment of the pick-up market – you don’t get the sense that this has come at the expense of outright durability.

All of the major surfaces feel hardwearing and sturdy, and cleaning out any muck dragged in by muddy boots shouldn’t be a delicate, laborious process, either.

Because of its double-cab layout, interior space is also of a useful volume. There are seats for five occupants, and although those in the back sit in a fairly perched position, head space is plentiful thanks to a slight upwards incline in the X-Class’s roofline.

Rear leg room is agreeable, too, although you do sit a touch closer to the floor than you would in a regular car, so your legs may not always sit flat on the seats. However, this is a trait common among pick-ups.