In Brief
Mercedes-Benz is gearing up to introduce a compact take on the iconic G-Class slated for 2028, expanding the lineup with a smaller footprint. This new SUV will borrow a portion of the stylistic DNA of the emblematic model, but it will target a different buyer—prioritizing accessibility and versatility. It will be offered with both gasoline and electric powertrains, though it won’t match the off-road capabilities of the full-size G-Class. The vehicle is still in the development phase, with prototypes out testing, and no official details have been released yet regarding price or precise specifications.
The famous Mercedes G-Class is about to be offered in a smaller format. Provisionally dubbed “Little G,” this future SUV could arrive as early as 2028, with several powertrain options on the agenda.
Will the Little Mercedes G-Class Really Arrive in 2028?
A G-Class that’s easier to use in daily life, less imposing, and potentially more affordable? That’s precisely the direction Mercedes is pursuing with its upcoming “Little G.”
The project, talked about for years, is now taking shape. Mercedes has confirmed its plan to develop a true little brother to its legendary off-roader, and early prototypes are already out on public roads. And contrary to earlier expectations, this new model won’t be electric-only.
The timetable is starting to come into focus. Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, recently referenced a window of about two years before the arrival of the new SUV, hinting at an official reveal around 2028.
In the meantime, engineers continue the development testing. Several heavily camouflaged test vehicles have already been photographed, confirming the project has moved beyond mere styling studies.
On the production front, a manufacturing footprint at the Mercedes plant in Hungary is being considered. The Little G could therefore be assembled at a site separate from its larger sibling. This is a possibility that still requires official confirmation.
But the real novelty lies in the model’s positioning. Mercedes doesn’t want simply to shrink the traditional G-Class. The goal is to create an SUV that can attract new buyers.
Stefan Weckbach, head of Mercedes-AMG, noted that the forthcoming Little G would target a customer base distinct from the current G-Class. The idea is to offer a more accessible entry point into this world, without directly competing with the historic model.
The Mercedes G-Class Mini Will Also Be Available in Gasoline
Initially presented as an essentially electric project, the small G-Class is expected to offer multiple powertrain options in the end.
Mercedes has indeed confirmed that a gasoline variant will accompany the electric version. This decision is partly driven by requests from American distributors who want the option of offering something beyond a solely battery-powered SUV.
The specifics, however, remain unknown. Among the possibilities is a turbocharged four-cylinder for the combustion engine. On the electric front, the model could use two motors to provide all-wheel drive.
No official details have been released yet. There’s also a possibility of sharing technical components with the Mercedes GLA, which would need to be confirmed.
In terms of design, Mercedes is expected to maintain the styling cues that have made the G-Class recognizable. The upcoming compact SUV will adopt a silhouette that’s clearly identifiable as a G-Class without being a precise copy of the original.
A Real “G-Wagon” Look, but Different Capabilities
The manufacturer is intent on preserving a degree of off-road versatility beyond paved roads. Engineers are focusing on suspensions, wheels, and their travel to enable the vehicle to tackle tough terrains.
That said, don’t expect off-road performance to match the grand G-Class. The larger model will still have the edge when it comes to the most demanding trails.
With this upcoming model, Mercedes aims to balance the G-Class image with the demands of premium compact-SUV buyers. It could appeal to those who love the look of the famous German 4×4 but don’t need its overall size or extreme capabilities. A crucial unknown remains: price. Mercedes has not shared any figures yet, so we’ll have to wait to learn how much more accessible this little G-Class will be compared with its elder sibling.
Key Takeaways
- Mercedes is preparing a compact G-Class, the “Little G,” expected in 2028.
- The model will be offered in gasoline and electric versions.
- It will target a new customer base with a more accessible and versatile positioning.
- The styling will borrow the G-Class’s iconic cues, but not be an exact copy.
- Off-road capabilities will be lower than those of the full-size G-Class.
- Production could take place at the Hungary plant, pending official confirmation.
- No official price or specifications have been released yet.
FAQ
When will the Mercedes G Mini be released?
An official reveal is planned for 2028, according to the manufacturer’s indications.
What powertrains will be offered for the Little G?
The compact SUV will offer both gasoline and electric power options, including a possible turbocharged four-cylinder for the petrol variant.
Who is the future G-Class Mini aimed at?
This model targets a new customer base seeking a premium compact SUV that’s accessible and versatile, without requiring the extreme performance of the larger G-Class.
Will the Little G be as capable off-road as the classic G-Class?
No. While designed for versatility, it won’t rival the off-road capabilities of the original model.
Where will the Mercedes Little G be built?
A production site at Mercedes’ Hungary plant is being considered, but it has not been officially confirmed yet.
