Following the success of the Mercedes-Maybach and Mercedes-AMG sub-brands, the German automaker has probably been considering whether other central group components might have what it takes to become their own sub-brand. It's reported that Mercedes has finally found what it was looking for and elevated its off-road luminary, the G-Class, to this illustrious circle last year. In addition to a purely electric variant called the EQG, which is expected in 2024 and could rely on a battery with a silicon anode for the first time, Mercedes is now planning another independent model under the G sub-brand. According to the latest information, a compact entry-level G-Class could be launched as early as 2026, rounding out the legendary off-roader's portfolio downwards.
Mercedes Plans A Compact G-Class For 2026
According to information from the German business magazine "Handelsblatt," Mercedes is planning a compact G-Class to expand the model portfolio of its off-road luminary downward. Last year, the German automaker had already elevated the original G-Class to its own sub-brand, similar to AMG and Maybach. However, with another model in its portfolio, "G" could now actually diversify more from the parent brand, becoming another building block in Mercedes-Benz's new luxury strategy.
The driving force behind the new compact G-Class is said to be none other than Mercedes CEO Olas Källenius, who is considered a big fan of the off-roader. Apart from the name, however, the similarities between the two models are likely to be limited. Accordingly, the compact G will be based on Mercedes' new MMA architecture and could be launched as early as 2026. Accordingly, its siblings will bear the names GLA and GLB, while the G-Class and EQG will continue to rely on the familiar ladder-frame architecture.
Reorganization Of The G-Class As The Mercedes-G Sub-Brand
However, since the MMA architecture is not designed for an all-electric powertrain, the compact G-Class could even continue to be equipped with combustion engines in selected markets until 2030. This strategy would make sense in particular in that the model is likely to be a genuine off-roader and not a soft SUV. In line with its intended areas of use, it is, therefore, unlikely that a charging station will always be found in the immediate vicinity. In addition, the normal G-Class sells well, especially in countries where the infrastructure for electric vehicles is not yet very developed. Mercedes is also likely to continue to focus more on these customers with an internal combustion version.
In the portfolio of the G sub-brand, the new compact model is likely to be at least 20 centimeters below the normal G-Class, which measures just under 4.90 meters as a five-door model, from 2026. If successful, however, a renewed expansion of the sub-brands portfolio could also come into play. In line with the Land Rover Defender, Mercedes could accordingly think about an extended version of the G-Class with 7 seats or even the renewed development of a pickup. After all, the G has never stood for boredom at Mercedes.