Mercedes’ little G-Class to target new buyers with petrol and electric power
Words: Kyle Cassidy
Mercedes-Benz’s smaller G-Class is expected within the next two years, bringing the off-roader’s recognisable character to a different group of buyers.
The compact SUV, commonly referred to as the Little G, will offer combustion and electric powertrains. Mercedes-AMG chief executive Stefan Weckbach says it will occupy a separate segment from the full-size G-Class.
“We will make sure that the little G-Class will target a different segment,” Weckbach has been reported as saying, adding that it would not target “the real G customer”.
The comments underline Mercedes’ intention to broaden the G-Class family while preserving a distinct role for the larger model.
According to overseas reports, Mercedes-Benz chief executive Ola Källenius has reiterated that the smaller SUV will arrive within 24 months. On that timetable, it would appear by late 2028, although an exact launch date has not been announced.
Mercedes is promising an off-road focus alongside the family resemblance. Källenius described the smaller model as having “very good off-road capability”, while reported development priorities include suspension geometry, wheel dimensions and axle articulation.
Those priorities suggest Mercedes wants the compact model to offer substance to go with its G-Class styling. Camouflaged prototypes have already been spotted testing, although the production design remains under wraps.
The powertrain plans also give the smaller SUV a broader brief than an exclusively electric model. Former AMG chief Michael Schiebe confirmed combustion and electric versions following pressure from North American dealers for a petrol option.
A turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive electric version have been suggested. However, specific engines and any direct connection to the GLA’s powertrain line-up remain unconfirmed.
There are firmer details on manufacturing. Mercedes announced in July that the compact G-Class will be built exclusively at its Kecskemét plant in Hungary.
That gives it a separate production base from the full-size G-Class, which is built in Graz, Austria. The Hungarian factory has undergone a major expansion and accommodates combustion-engined and battery-electric vehicles.
