Update: ‘Hybrid model’ sub-section added to ‘Specifications.’
With the Mercedes G 580, the pure-electric variant of the G-Class, out in the market, Mercedes-Benz G GmbH is developing a mini G-Class.
Targeted at younger customers who want a G but in smaller dimensions and budget, and perhaps with more focus on urban practicality than extreme off-roading, it could take on the ‘Mercedes GLG’ branding. It follows the success of the G-Class, which recently hit 600,000 units.
Confirmation
On September 3, 2023, during the world premiere of the Mercedes Concept CLA Class, Mercedes-Benz Group CEO Ola Källenius announced the launch of the mini G-Class Electric. Presenting a teaser of the future model behind him, he said:
There will be a smaller version of one of our most iconic shapes. Yes, there will be a little G.
Ola Källenius, CEO, Mercedes-Benz Group at Mercedes-Benz Pre-Night IAA Open Space (September 3, 2023)
Lessons learned from the launch of the G 580 will help during the rollout of the baby G.
Banner year for the G, record with a very solid sales across the world. And also the electric G, if you look at an electric vehicle in that price class, the most sold electric vehicle by a wide margin in that price class around the world.
Ola Källenius, CEO, Mercedes-Benz Group at the Mercedes-Benz 2026 Strategy Update on Feb 12, 2026
Design
As shown in our exclusive illustrations in this story, the mini G-Class electric would look like a downsized G 580 electric SUV, featuring a similar shape and the signature G-Class design cues. “It will be instantly recognizable,” Källenius said during its announcement on September 3, 2023.
At the front, spy images confirm circular headlamps with the turn indicators around the circumference. The boxy fascia completes the family look. The Little G will offer rear doors and conventional door handles, while flaunting the signature squared-off body with a flat roofline, a straight but mildly sloping hood, and a nearly vertical tailgate.
We also observe flared wheel arches and angular wheelhouses, which take after the original G. The rear-mounted spare wheel, possibly with a stainless steel cover, provides a strong visual link to the G-Class.
A second teaser, released at the GLC Electric’s world premiere on September 7, 2025, revealed slim, horizontally stacked taillights set low on the rear fascia, again confirming its family resemblance from this angle.
We’re expecting to see the option of an illuminated grille with pixel LED dots. Despite the squared-off design, vertical front end, and high ground clearance, Mercedes’ aerodynamicists have reportedly achieved improvements over the G 580 Electric, which has a drag coefficient of 0.44 Cd.
The more compact stance, narrower glasshouse, and simplified roof contour seen in the teasers hint at a modern interpretation of the G-Class formula, one aimed at younger buyers seeking a smaller and more approachable electric SUV.
Interior
The interior will likely follow suit, featuring crisp digital screens and advanced infotainment technologies. The electric SUV should be a strict five-seater and feature sustainable materials, including a biotech-based, vegan silk-like fabric and recycled cellulose paper, and multi-color LED ambient lighting to offer an upmarket cabin experience.
MBUX Superscreen
According to a Handelsblatt report dated February 16, 2023, Mercedes-Benz is considering an “XXL screen” that covers the whole width of the cockpit for the mini G-Class Electric. We expect to see a free-standing fully digital instrument cluster, along with an infotainment display and a passenger display underneath a large, gently curved glass surface in a seamless design.
MB.OS
The Mercedes GLG will run on the in-house Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), designed to connect the car with the cloud and IoT. This system covers four main areas: Powertrain, Autonomous Driving, Infotainment, and Body & Comfort. It should also have the AI-powered MBUX Virtual Assistant, which helps offer drivers information in real time and in an interactive modality.
Specifications
Dimensions
According to the Handelsblatt report, the rumored Mercedes GLG should be slightly shorter but significantly lower than the G-Class. For reference, the G-Class measures 189.7 in. in length, 74.5 in. in width, and 77.5 in. in height.
The little G will be electric. It will be capable. And it will be instantly recognizable. And it will be a lot of fun to drive, both on and off the road. That’s a promise.
Ola Källenius, CEO, Mercedes-Benz Group at Mercedes-Benz Pre-Night IAA Open Space (September 3, 2023)
Mixed platform
Speaking to Autocar at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January 2024, former Mercedes-Benz R&D boss Markus Schäfer said that the “little G” will be based on a different platform consisting of modules from larger rear-wheel drive Mercs, meaning it will borrow heavily from the MB.EA architecture of the GLC Electric.
Ladder frame construction
In an interview with Autocar on the sidelines of the Munich Motor Show in September 2025, Schäfer confirmed that the Little G will use a dedicated ladder-frame chassis and that many components were developed exclusively for the model. He suggested the smallest member of the G family will feature off-road suspension and wheel sizes similar to the standard G-Class.
800V eATS 2.0 powertrain
Mercedes-Benz is likely to equip the new mini G-Class Electric with its in-house-developed eATS 2.0, the second generation of the company’s electric drive unit (EDU) that consists of the electric motor, transmission, and power electronics.
Unlike its predecessor, the eATS 1.0, eATS 2.0 will have a two-speed gearbox and a Silicon Carbide (SiC) inverter. Moreover, the operating voltage will be double – 800 V, leading to reduced current and energy losses.
Advanced AWD system
Autocar mentions that the all-wheel drive system of the little G would be very capable. Engineers are developing the drivetrain to mimic the three mechanical differential locks of the regular G-Class.
Charging & Range
It goes without saying that the so-called Mercedes GLG will have an AWD drivetrain layout as standard, with one EDU on each axle. The output figures would vary as per the variant, though, with the top-spec model generating around 400 hp.
The battery pack, with 80-90 kWh capacity, should also have an operating voltage of 800 volts and thus support ultra-fast charging speeds. A 10 to 80% fast-charging session may take just around 20 minutes. We expect the EPA-estimated range of the baby G-Class Electric to be 275-300 miles.
Hybrid model
Autocar UK has reported that Mercedes has changed its mind about a hybrid variant, and the electrified version is now expected to arrive after the EV.
The Little G Hybrid is expected to borrow the new CLA Hybrid 4MATIC’s powertrain where it pairs a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder gas engine with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and an electric motor integrated into the transmission.
The motor draws power from a 1.3 kWh battery. Total system output is 190 hp and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft). A wide recuperation range helps the system run on electric power alone for longer stretches, though we imagine that the powertrain would be retuned on the SUV.
AMG model
While it could take some time, it’s almost certain that Mercedes-AMG will introduce its version of the Little G, placed at the very top of the lineup.
We imagine that this AMG variant will feature different electric motors, a stiffer suspension system, a beefed-up braking system with cross-drilled rotors, and perhaps special batteries with a silicon anode. Additionally, the two-speed gearbox should be optimized for rapid acceleration.
Price, Release Date & Competitors
Speaking at the world premiere of the Mercedes GLC Electric in Munich on September 7, 2025, Källenius confirmed that test prototypes will hit the road this year.
Yes, we are going to extend our G-Class family, again. In 2023, we announced the smaller “G”. And you’ll be spotting those prototypes on the roads shortly.
Ola Källenius, CEO, Mercedes-Benz Group at world premiere of the GLC Electric on September 7, 2025
While Källenius was careful not to offer a timeline, we don’t expect the vehicle to be revealed before the second half of 2027.
The smallest model from Mercedes-Benz G GmbH is anticipated to start at around USD 70,000 in the U.S. market, positioning it as a competitor to the forthcoming Land Rover Defender Sport EV and, to some degree, the Rivian R2X, which is expected in 2027.
TopElectricSUV says
The mini-Mercedes G-Class EV will likely be a great choice for customers who desire the same character in a model that is more affordable and compact, and that focuses more on fuel efficiency and everyday practicality than on extreme off-roading capability.
We expect the compact electric SUV to come with an eye-catching design, a comfortable and feature-rich interior, and great all-around performance. One aspect where it certainly won’t be winning awards, however, is aerodynamic efficiency!
Mercedes GLG (Little G) FAQs
What is the Mercedes GLG’s release date?
The Little G is expected to be launched globally in 2027-28.
What will be the Mercedes GLG’s price?
The base Mercedes GLG will likely be priced at around $70,000 in the U.S.
Which models will be the Mercedes GLG’s rivals?
Featured Image: TopElectricSUV’s illustration of the Little G
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
