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Mercedes-Benz’ Ute Will Be Using Nissan Navara Underpinnings

Mercedes-Benz confirmed they are working on a 1-ton ute not too long ago, and now we’re getting a bit more light into the matter. According to a recent press release, the new premium pickup will be built with the help of the Nissan-Renault conglomerate.
Mercedes-Benz ute sketch 1 photo
Photo: Mercedes-Benz
Furthermore, the Germans weren’t too shy to admit that the car will be sharing most of its underpinnings with the upcoming Nissan NP300 model, better known as Navara. That will allow the three-pointed star company to drop the costs needed to develop a new model and also to manufacture it.

Of course, according to the CEO, Mr. Dieter Zetsche, the final product will have all the amenities a Mercedes-Benz should. That includes the materials, fit and finish inside the cabin. However, we’ll always know there’s a Nissan hiding under the body somewhere.

The same platform will, therefore, be the basis for three models: the Mercedes-Benz ute, the Nissan Navara and a Renault equivalent. The production will be split between two factories, both of them belonging to the Japanese-French association.

For South America, the production will be moved to Argentina at Renault’s plant while Nissan’s Barcelona factory will be responsible for the Mercedes-Benz ute, the Navara and the upcoming Renault.

Unfortunately, the US won’t be getting the Benz truck, the company already confirming that their creation will be sold in Europe, Australia, South Africa and Latin America. The USA is apparently being left out. It will also be interesting to see what engines will be used in the double-cab model and if a plug-in hybrid alternative will be available. Expect the Mercedes-Benz ute to come out in 2017.
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