A Smaller G-Class Made Officially Official
The idea of a smaller Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been an open secret for the German marque. Often referred to as the “Baby G” or “Mini G,” the model is expected to arrive within the next two years as the entry point into an expanding G-Class range. It aligns with Mercedes’ intention to evolve “G” into a sub-brand of its own, in the same way that Range Rover has grown beyond a single model.
Speaking at the Munich motor show, Mercedes-Benz chairman Ola Källenius revealed that test prototypes will soon appear on public roads, and a preview image of the new SUV’s rear end was shown during the presentation, Autocar reports.
Alongside this confirmation came news that Mercedes will also reintroduce the G-Class Cabriolet, underscoring the company’s objective to expand the G portfolio. The Baby G will therefore not be a simple spin-off, but a key part of a larger strategy to reinforce the G-Class as one of Mercedes’ most recognized product lines.
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It’s Not Going To Be a Parts Bin Special
Unlike other SUV spin-offs that share platforms with the original, the Baby G will ride on a bespoke architecture. Mercedes’ head of technology, Markus Schäfer, described it as a “miniature ladder-frame chassis,” which was created to preserve the G-Class character. He explained that while it does not match the full-scale ladder-frame of the existing G-Class, it adopts a similar suspension and wheels.
Schäfer added that nearly every part of the Baby G will be custom, including the upper body panels and even the door handles. The development process, he said, led to the conclusion that existing parts could not simply be reused, as the G-Class has unique requirements.
Mercedes design chief Gorden Wagener echoed this sentiment, noting that while the G-Class is an icon that cannot be radically changed, the smaller model will be given youthful details to make it “even more modern” than the current G580 with EQ Technology.
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Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Powertrain Uncertainty
Now, the question is: what will power the so-called Baby G? Early reports claimed that it would be offered only as an EV, aligning with the direction of the new G580 with EQ Technology.
However, the electric G-Class has struggled in the marketplace, with executives acknowledging slow sales compared to combustion-powered models. This has led to speculation that the Baby G may incorporate internal combustion engines, possibly supported by hybrid technology to meet regulatory requirements.
Autocar has reported that Mercedes-Benz is still evaluating options. No official powertrain details have been released, but the Baby G is expected to strike a balance between the brand’s electrification strategy and strong customer demand for traditional engines.
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Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
About the author
Jacob Oliva
Senior Editor, Autoblog