Mercedes-Benz GLT Midsize Pickup Truck May Arrive in Europe as Early as 2017

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris
There’s a possibility that the highly anticipated Mercedes-Benz GLT Midsize pickup truck could be in European dealerships as early as 2017. We recently learned about the leaked name and possible release date from Autocar on the Mercedes-Benz GLT truck. Combined with our earlier post regarding earlier details (Mercedes-Benz Pickup Truck possible names), we are beginning to get a clearer picture of the Mercedes-Benz GLT Midsize pickup truck.

For those of you who don’t know, the Mercedes-Benz GLT Midsize pickup truck will be based on a Nissan NP300 Navara platform. While many of the mechanical components will be shared between the two trucks, the Mercedes-Benz GLT pickup truck will have a unique exterior, upscale interior and, possibly a unique suspension system as well.

According to the Autocar article: “Autocar understands that due to the partnership with the Renault-Nissan Alliance, the GLT will be built alongside Renault and Nissan pick-ups, with production split between Renault’s Argentinian plant and Nissan’s Barcelona factory.”

mercedes benz x class

According to the TopSpeed Mercedes-Benz GLT truck information article: “We still suspect Mercedes will call its pickup the GLT and give it styling cues from the GL-Class SUV. The GLT is also likely to borrow its powertrain options from the GL-Class, giving it access to several options that include four- and six-cylinder engines running gasoline and diesel. A six-speed manual and seven-speed automatic are the two expected transmission choices. Mercedes’ 4MATIC AWD will be optional, as well.”

While Mercedes-Benz has not (officially) ruled out the North American market for sales, there has been no action taken by the automaker to indicate that the Mercedes-Benz GLT Midsize pickup will be sold in the United States. While the news is disparaging, there was a time when Mercedes-Benz didn’t think selling vans in the United States was a good idea. Public demand may change their sales plans.

What do you think? Is the United States ready for a premium pickup truck that, unlike the disliked Lincoln Blackwood, might bring luxury and pickup truck capability to the party?

Speaking of Mercedes-Benz trucks…

Nathan Adlen
Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism - Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. Brought up in the California car culture and educated in theater, childhood education, film, journalism and history, Nathan now lives with his family in Denver, CO. His words, good humor and video are enjoyed worldwide.