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We are not talking about Mercedes-Benz merely slapping a bed on the G-Wagon, this new venture would be a ground up build that is expected set the auto industry on its head. In March of this year Daimler revealed they have plans to release a new midsize pickup line from a premium manufacturer before 2020.
Mercedes-Benz vans division has been the leader in the new commercial van segment of the market and they are ready to take on the task of creating a luxury midsize pickup. At the New York International Auto Show Stephen Cannon, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA said “It is something we are going to look at. We’re going to evaluate and see if it makes sense for the U.S. market. This is the largest pickup market in the world.”
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Gas prices are lower than in recent years, and now many Americans have options for luxury pickups getting similar MPG to their sedan counterparts. This classification of pickup trucks did not exist just a few years ago. We can agree that the US midsize pickup segment is transforming.
Busy lives with corporate jobs and weekend hobbies tended to require two separate vehicles. Step back just 20 years ago with Mercedes-Benz’s introduction of the M-class SUV which offered the sporty feel of a car yet had ample storage space. Ditch the hatchback for a tailgate and you might just be on to something. Daimler is set on creating a pickup line, but we will have to wait until presumably next summer to hear the decision they reach.
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Imagine having the power and handling of a Mercedes-Benz car, yet having to ability for haul an estimated metric ton in the bed. Granted the local Joe the Plumber probably wont be in the targeted demographic, but the business executive needing a bigger trunk for their golf clubs may find this truck to be the best vehicle for his needs. Take the style and comfort from the coupes and sedans Mercedes-Benz is known for and add that to the utility and versatility of a truck bed and, voila, a segment shattering pickup is born.
We think AMG should be consulted to add their flavor to this pickup to really help Daimler make a statement to the other luxury pickup manufacturers; don’t you? Tell us in the comments below!