Mercedes-Benz will show its new GLT bakkie before the end of October and it can be expected on showroom floors in 2017.

Rumours are rife that this new model from Mercedes-Benz will be called the GLT, but nothing has officially been confirmed. It will be built on the new Nissan Navara platform, but will feature luxury appointments and technology.Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle division head Volker Mornhinweg revealed last year that the “GLT”will be produced in 3specification levels and only as a double-cab. It is expected that turbopetrol and –diesel powerplants will be offered in 4- and 6-cylinder guises and that there will be a choice between 6-speed manual and 7-speed automatic transmissions.

Speaking to Cars.co.za at the 2015 Frankfurt Show, Mornhinweg said that the double-cab would offer sufficient build- and driving refinement to meet Mercedes-Benz's strict quality levels. It will be sold from passenger vehicle dealerships (as opposed to its commercial vehicle outlets). The premium focus would extend beyond Benz offering the most luxurious cabin in its segment, he added — the level of integrated technology (convenience- and safety-wise) will be at a level thattraditional Mercedes-Benz customers have come to expect. It is estimated that this new Mercedes-Benz bakkie will be launched sometime in 2017.

According to reports, Mercedes-Benz will officially reveal the GLT at an invite-only event on Tuesday 25 October 2016 before making its world debut at the Sao Paulo Motor Show in Brazil.

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