Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its X-Class pickup truck and it’s an absolute monster

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Ever wondered what luxury car enthusiasts do when they have to, say, haul a cow carcass across many acres of rough farmland?

Well, wonder no more – for Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its X-Class pickup truck, and it is a total monster.

Mercedes said its first "premium truck" comes in two catchily-named versions. First, the "powerful adventurer", featuring all the strengths of a classic pickup – tough, functional, strong and with off-road capability. Secondly, the "stylish explorer", which "shows what will distinguish the pickup bearing the Mercedes star"

Mercedes said it's planning to spend "in the high nine figures" on the new model – making it the first premium manufacturer to muscle into the mid-size pickup truck market. The new trucks will launch in 2017 – although the company gave no details on price, beyond the fact it will be "attractive". 

Read more: Meet Rolls-Royce's crazy supercar and the Mini of the future

An ugly silver pickup sits in a cityscape next to a clothing store
The stylish explorer: for when you've shopped too much (Source: Mercedes-Benz)

"With the Mercedes-Benz pickup, we will close one of the last gaps in our portfolio," said Dieter Zetsche, chairman of Daimler, which owns Mercedes. 

"Our target: we want to offer customers vehicles matching their specific needs. The X-Class will set new standards in a growing segment."

The launch illustrates a shift in the luxury car market towards new vehicle classes: while some traditional sports car manufacturers, such as Aston Martin and Ferrari, have embraced a move towards SUVs and sedans; others, such as the UK's McLaren, would rather stay in their traditional markets. 

Having already moved into the sports utility vehicle market, earlier this month Aston Martin chief executive Andy Palmer told City PM he is planning on dramatically expanding his brand.

“We believe it’s credible that you could own an Aston Martin apartment, wear an Aston Martin suit, drive your Aston Martin down to the harbour, and spend the weekend in your Aston Martin boat," he said.