In the not-too-distant future, Mercedes-Benz will whip the covers off its first bakkie, which will be based on the latest Nissan Navara.
The news that the Stuttgart-based automaker will enter the pickup market – and essentially create a whole new segment of premium double-cabs in the process – has sparked plenty of speculation.
In fact, we’ve already reported that BMW is watching the segment “closely”, while an Audi executive has admitted that an Amarok-based bakkie would be an “interesting” addition to the Ingolstadt automaker’s range.
So, we commissioned Rudi Stadler of Rooster Creative (check out his Instagram and Facebook pages) to create renderings of five posh, possible future pickups, including the upcoming Mercedes. Take note, of course, that this is all rather tongue-in-cheek…
1. Audi
If Audi were to build a blinged-up bakkie, one would expect it to be based on the Amarok, since the platform already exists within the Volkswagen Group. Indeed, since this VW pickup is one of the more car-like offerings around, a premium version sporting four rings wouldn’t be too far a stretch. And, of course, Audi has plenty of quattro knowledge on which to call…
2. BMW
Whenever one of Mercedes-Benz or BMW finds and fills a new niche, the other generally follows suit. So a bakkie from the Bavarians is by no means impossible. The Munich-based brand doesn’t really have a suitable donor vehicle within the group, although it does have some experience with all-wheel drive. Anyway, its recent sportscar tie-up with Toyota could at least pave the way for a similar joint venture in the pickup segment…
3. Jaguar
Not too long ago, Jaguar had never built an SUV. Now the F-Pace is considered a pretty darn important part of its range. Will the British automaker enter the bakkie segment, too? While it seems improbable, Jaguar’s close links to Land Rover means it at least has access to some proper off-roading technology…
4. Lexus
The Toyota Hilux is an incredibly popular bakkie in many parts of the world, and the opportunity is there for Lexus to grab a slice of the pie. Add some typically edgy exterior styling, fit the cabin with a few luxury features and throw in some multi-link rear suspension (for comfort over ability), and behold! A Lexus bakkie appears…
5. Mercedes-Benz
This is the only vehicle on the list that we’ll see any time soon. Widely expected to be badged as the Mercedes-Benz GLT, the bakkie will be based on the latest Nissan Navara, although the German automaker insists that the final product will bear all the “characteristics and features” of a proper Mercedes. We’re still waiting to see exactly what it’ll look like, though…
Also read:
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