Mercedes-Benz is busy testing the production-spec X-Class, its mid-size pickup truck developed in partnership with Nissan. We’ve already seen several test mules running about with Nissan bodywork, but this is the first time we’re seeing the Mercedes version. High-end headlights, the large grille, and several other familiar Mercedes details spoil the camouflage’s effectiveness.

Up front, it’s clear this isn’t a Nissan Navara. The headlights feature LED lighting technology, including the familiar daytime running lights eyebrow. The grille is also Mercedes-esque, with a center-mounted logo hidden behind the swirly camo. Squint hard enough, and you’ll even see the horizontal chrome grill hidden behind the wire mesh. Down low, proximity sensors are peppered across the bumper, while the radar beacon for the adaptive cruise controls sits perfectly centered. A single tow hook hides further down on the passenger side.

The hood also shares the two bulges seen on the X-Class Concept truck that debuted back in October of 2016. At the sides, the doors and windows share similar traits to both the X-Class concept and the Nissan Navara, suggesting little will change with the production model. The rear end also receives some changes, including LED taillights and a step bumper.

Under the hood, the X-Class will use Mercedes powertrains. The 3.0-liter V-6 turbodiesel is rumored to be the range-toping engine. Currently offered elsewhere in Mercedes’ lineup, (but not in the U.S.) the engine kicks out 261 brake horsepower and 457 pound-feet of torque. A variety of four-cylinder engines are expected, too. Mercedes is expected to use its 9G nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic AWD system. Should the X-Class actually make it Stateside, it might get Mercedes’ new 3.0-liter inline-six gasoline engine barring any under-hood packaging issues.

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Why It Matters

It’s been a long time coming for Mercedes-Benz to enter the pickup segment. Some might say Mercedes is doing wrong by its high-class heritage, while others (including yours truly) see it as taking advantage of a huge opportunity to capitalize on a growing luxury pickup segment. Mercedes has confirmed the X-Class will be sold in markets around the world, including Europe, Africa, Latin America, and Australia. However, Mercedes is still undecided whether it will include the U.S. in that list. The last we heard, Mercedes was reevaluating the American market.

Keep in mind, Mercedes would have some stiff competition, though none will likely compete with the X-Class’ luxurious appointments and corresponding sticker price. Technically Mercedes could ignite a luxury trim war in the mid-size class. Right now, GMC is the sole entry in this segment with its Canyon Denali. Luxury full-size trucks have proven to be exceedingly popular among consumers and extremely profitable for automakers. That same game plan should work well in the mid-size segment. What sacrifices buyers make in interior volume will translate into exterior nimbleness, urban drivability, and the ability to fit in more people’s garages.

What do you think? Should Mercedes-Benz offer the X-Class inside the U.S.? Would you buy one? Let us know in the comments below.

Read our full review on the upcoming Mercedes-benz truck here.