Mercedes set to launch smaller, more affordable G-Wagen SUV

Mercedes-Benz has confirmed development of a smaller G-Wagen SUV, colloquially known as the "baby G." This news came out in a recent investor presentation, which announced the company's plan to further extend its G-Class lineup.

Design and Platform

Although details regarding the baby G-Class are still scarce, the SUV is expected to maintain the boxy shape and tough appearance that turned the original G-Class into an icon of luxury and off-road prowess.

The baby G-Class is likely to be constructed on Mercedes-Benz's Modular Architecture (MMA) platform, which will support electric and internal combustion powertrains. This adaptability implies that the baby G may provide various propulsion options, including fully electric models.

Powertrain Options

The flexibility of the MMA platform means multiple powertrain arrangements are possible. As Mercedes-Benz continues to drive forward with electrification, it is likely the baby G-Class will include an electric variant in its lineup as part of the brand's overall strategy to make electric versions of its models. Nevertheless, conventional internal combustion engines can also be expected, with certain markets yet to have widespread EV charging points. 

Market Positioning

The addition of a compact G-Class is intended to bring the G-Wagen's legendary luxury and off-road capability within reach of a wider audience. By providing a more urban-friendly and possibly lower-priced variant, Mercedes-Benz can appeal to buyers who appreciate the G-Class heritage but want a car more suitable for city use or prefer a lower price of entry.

Historical Context

This is not the first time Mercedes-Benz has tried to distill the G-Class's spirit into a smaller package. The 2019 Concept GLB tried to capture the tough character of the G-Wagen but failed to entirely encapsulate its iconic personality. The new compact G-Class hopes to make up for this by providing an SUV that retains the G-Class's unique charm in a more palatable package.

Design Language Overhaul

Along with growing the G-Class family, Mercedes-Benz is also looking to harmonize its design language for its upcoming EV and ICE cars. Today, the automaker's EVs have their own unique styling signatures that differentiate them from the ICE models. 

The new design direction will provide a unified look, irrespective of the car's powertrain. The new CLA-class is set to be the first model to adopt this new design philosophy, providing internal-combustion, hybrid, and battery-electric powertrains in a single model range.

Production and Availability

Although there has not been an official release date announced, the baby G-Class is set to go into production in the near future.