Mercedes Doubles Down on Concept Pickups

Daimler AG’s Mercedes-Benz unit has introduced a pair of concept vehicles that preview the brand’s X-Class midsize pickup truck expected to debut in international markets next year.

The production model—Mercedes' first pickup—is expected to combine elements of the "Stylish Explorer" (right) and the "Powerful Adventurer" (left) concepts. The former features SUV-like styling, while that latter looks more like a rugged traditional pickup.

Mercedes is investing nearly €1 billion in the X-Class, which will share a platform with the Nissan NP300/Navara and Renault Alaskan trucks. The vehicle will be sold in Latin America, Australia, South Africa and Europe. Daimler says there are no immediate plans to offer it in the U.S.

Nissan will build the X-Class for Mercedes in Spain starting next year. Renault will add production a year later in Argentina.

Mercedes vows that the all-wheel-drive pickup will maintain the comfort, safety and driving dynamics its customers expect. Power will be supplied by a V-6 diesel engine.