X-Factor

A THREE-POINTED STAR IN THE NORTHERN FLINDERS RANGES MIGHT BE A RARE SIGHT, BUT THAT’S WHERE WE TOOK THE X-CLASS FOR ITS FIRST OUTBACK STOUSH AGAINST THREE TOP RIVALS.

WORDS TOBY HAGON

IT’S A TOWN of 18 at the northern end of the Flinders Ranges, but that doesn’t stop the people of Blinman taking an interest in the latest newcomer to the 4x4 ute class. Parked outside the picturesque local pub on a crisp morning, the Mercedes-Benz X-Class has at least one keen admirer, eager to learn more about what is the undoubted darling of the dual-cab class, a category with its fair share of admirers these days. Alongside the gleaming three-pointed star is the latest addition to the Hilux family, the Rugged X; but the stickers, snorkel and rock rails are simply not getting the attention of an all-new player. It’s indicative of the shift that’s carving through the ute segment: in its 50 years on Australian roads, the Toyota Hilux hasn’t…

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4x4 Magazine Australia (Digital) - 1 Issue, August 2018

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