Rumours about a smaller version of the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G-Wagon) have been circulating for a while. The G-Wagon is recognised worldwide as a symbol of what a rugged 4×4 SUV should aspire to be.
Currently, the G-Wagon has evolved into a luxury SUV available in both ICE and Electric formats, a big leap from its utilitarian start in the 1970s. In India, the dream SUV has a starting price of Rs 2.55 crore ex-showroom, which means that not many people have easy access to the G-Wagon. However, this could change in the near future as Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that it is working on a smaller ‘Baby G-Wagon’. Here’s everything we know so far.
1. The Teaser Image:
During the Mercedes-Benz presentation at the new GLC Electric reveal in Munich, fans spotted a glimpse of the upcoming Baby-G. As part of a creative visual, Mercedes-Benz showcased three G-Class models visualised from the rear end. The three cars shown in the graphic included the recently announced G-Class Cabriolet, a standard G-Class and a smaller SUV on the far right.
While the silhouette, rear-mounted wheel and low set tail lamps of the car mimic the G-Class, it can be clearly seen that the dimensions of this mystery G-Wagon are much smaller than the standard SUV. Hence, it gives us the first visual confirmation of an upcoming Baby G-Wagon.
2. Will it be ICE or Electric:
Reports from the IAA confirm that Ola Källenius, CEO, Mercedes-Benz, announced the Baby-G as an all-new development at the GLC Electric reveal. According to the Autocar UK report, executives further confirmed that the smaller G-Class will have a completely new platform, which will retain a body-on-frame chassis but it will only be made available as an all-electric.
It has further been speculated that the new-generation electric platform from the GLC Electric could underpin the Baby-G. In that case, it could be powered by a 94 kWh battery and offer a handsome amount of range of over 700 km.
3. When will it launch:
While there is no confirmation on when we will get to see the Baby G-Wagon in action, Mercedes-Benz did confirm at IAA, that test mules of the smaller G-Class will start to be spotted soon.
While fans of the G-Class in India will certainly be excited about this new development, it remains to be seen if the Baby-G will be an entry point into the G-Wagon lifestyle or out of reach for most luxury car buyers.