Powered by a 3 litre 190kW diesel engine, the new flagship model in the X Class range will have a 7-speed automatic transmission, and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive.
Mercedes-Benz says the new model completes the sprint from 0 to 100 kph in 7.5 seconds.
It has maximum torque of 550Nm available over a wide engine speed range from 1400rpm to 3200rpm, providing high torque available from low engine speeds.
The X 350 d 4MATIC is available in the equipment lines PROGRESSIVE and POWER, both V6 badging on the fender and X 350 d 4MATIC badging on the rear tailgate.
The PROGRESSIVE model goes on sale for $81,205, while the top of the range POWER model will sell here for $88,325.
Mercedes says the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with low-range reduction gear and a differential lock on the rear axle ensures traction on a wide range of driving surfaces. The all-wheel drive system is fitted with a central differential, which distributes the drive force between the front and rear axle at a torque distribution of 40 to 60 percent.
This delivers an optimum level of traction in normal driving conditions. As road conditions vary optimum traction is still guaranteed as the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system continuously adjusts the torque distribution to match the driving conditions.
There are three all-wheel-drive modes to choose from: 4MAT, 4H and 4L. In 4MAT the torque distribution is continuously adjusted between the axles as the road conditions dictate. That way, if the vehicle registers loss of grip on the front wheels for example, then torque is applied to the rear axle instead to maintain traction.
When driving off-road 4H can be selected. This distributes the drive force between the front and rear axle at a torque distribution of 30 to 70 percent, which is ideal for driving on rocky, sandy or snow covered terrain.
The 4L mode is suited for driving on terrain where maximum force at low speeds is required, such as on steep slopes or muddy roads. This distributes the drive force between the front and rear axle at a torque distribution of 50 to 50 percent.
The all-wheel-drive system and the suspension with its long spring travel and ground clearance of 222 millimetres together ensure outstanding off-road capabilities. The X-Class effortlessly climbs gradients of up to 45 degrees, fords water courses with a depth of up to 60 centimetres, and maintains its poise on inclines of almost 50 degrees.
The X Class comes with five driving modes - comfort, eco, sport, manual, and offroad, for driving on more challenging terrain.