The Mercedes X-Class pick-up just got faster

You don't really need tonnes of speed in something weighing many tonnes - well, you do, but you really don't. Something to do with physics. And until now, your only choice of engine in a Mercedes-Benz X-Class was a 2.3-litre Renault-developed diesel. Maximum horsepower was 187bhp. For the Geneva Motor Show, Merc will show off an X-Class that has more.

Specifically, 255bhp, thanks to the company’s 3.0-litre turbo V6 diesel. It helps slash the pick-up’s 0-62mph time down from a wheezy 11.8s to just 7.9s. Much quicker, then. It also gets 406lb ft of torque, allied to a permanent all-wheel-drive setup.

And credit to Merc for referencing Formula 1 tech… for a diesel pick-up truck engine. That V6 uses cylinder liner coating, just like in motorsport’s top tier.

Anyhoo, there are various modes you can adjust in your X-Class – including Comfort, Eco, Sport (yes, Sport) Manual and Offroad – and two trim levels. Progressive and Power. The former comes with 17in alloys, chromed air vents, leather on the steering wheel, and infotainment things.

The latter trim line gets bigger alloys (18s), more chrome around the body, LED headlights, a matt black dashboard, and infotainment things.

It’ll go on sale in Germany later this year for €53,360. We’ll fire back with UK prices once we have them.

So, the engine it really needed is now available. Until of course, AMG slots in something entirely unnecessary but equally excellent in the X-Class. And then that'll be the engine it really needs. But probably really doesn't. You get the point.