Mercedes-Benz has some exciting news for off-road enthusiasts and electric vehicle enthusiasts alike. They’re expanding their G-Wagon lineup with a smaller version, playfully nicknamed the “Little G.” Picture this: it’s like how the Bronco Sport complements the traditional Ford Bronco, but in the world of Mercedes-Benz.
Now, what sets this Little G apart? Well, first off, it’s going electric! Just like the big brother G-Class is getting an electric version called the EQG, the Little G will be powered by batteries too. Mercedes is putting its latest EV tech to work, promising emission-free off-roading and all the luxurious touches you’d expect from a Mercedes when this little fella makes its debut in a few years.
Mercedes unveiled this diminutive off-roader at the IAA Munich 2023 event, affectionately referring to it as the Little G. Although it sounds adorable, don’t get too attached to the name, because when this off-roader hits the streets, it’s likely to go by a name similar to its electric sibling, the EQG.
But what will it look like? Well, it’s going to have that classic G-Class style but scaled down to size. We have envisioned it with cues from the current model, along with some distinctive electric touches.
Being an off-road SUV, it’s going to have a rugged vibe. Expect plenty of plastic cladding on the front, around the wheel wells, and at the rear. Off-road tires will be on the menu, and you might also see some off-road-specific features like brush guards, skid plates, and tow hooks.
Now, here’s where it differs from its bigger sibling. Instead of the traditional G-Wagon’s ladder frame, the Little G will sport a unibody construction. That means it won’t sit as high off the ground and will have a shorter wheelbase.
Under the hood it’s likely to use the latest compact Mercedes Modular Architecture, the same platform found in the Concept CLA-Class. This platform can accommodate both traditional engines and electric powertrains. As for the electric side of things, expect an 800-volt charging capability and a range of over 300 miles with all-wheel drive as standard. The specifics, like battery size and motor setup, are still a bit of a mystery.
Now, don’t get too excited just yet because the Little G is still a few years away from rolling off the production line. Analysts predict it won’t hit the assembly line until late 2026 at the Mercedes Kecskemet factory in Hungary, where they make their compact cars. That’s after the new CLA, EQA, and EQB models, as well as the electric version of the full-size G-Class, which is expected next year.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Little G is its price tag. While the standard G-Class starts at a hefty $141,050 in the US (that includes destination charges), and the G63 tops out at $180,150, the Little G is expected to be much more budget-friendly. Early estimates suggest it could start at around $55,000 to $65,000, making it a more accessible option for those who want a taste of the G-Class experience without breaking the bank.
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