The Mercedes G-Class range is set to expand in 2027 with the introduction of a smaller EV that will slot under the current G-Class electric (called the G580 with EQ Technology). Referred to as the “Mercedes Little G” online, the e-SUV was confirmed by Mercedes CEO Ola Källenius at the 2023 Munich Motor Show and will be sold exclusively as an EV. It’ll rival the likes of Land Rover’s upcoming baby Defender.
- Mercedes is looking to expand the G (Geländewagen: off-road vehicle) sub-brand
- Little G EV to use monocoque platform instead of ladder-frame chassis
- Interior elements likely to be shared with the third-gen CLA
Mercedes Little G battery, range, platform
Entry-level G-Class to use MB:EA monocoque platform
Unlike the larger G-Class models, which sit on a ladder-frame chassis, the new 4x4 will use Merc’s new MB:EA platform, which also underpins the next-gen electric versions of the GLC SUV and C-Class sedan. The Little G’s MB:EA monocoque platform will feature an 800V electric architecture and a new fifth-generation battery aimed at providing it with a range of more than 700km.
Mercedes Little G design, nameplate
Likely to use lowercase ‘g’ in its nameplate
In terms of design, the smaller G-Class SUV will borrow cues from the “iconic DNA” of the existing G-Class, with “its own character, but it will be a G,” Mercedes design chief Gorden Wagener previously told our sister publication, Autocar UK. It is understood that it will also be marked out from the other G-Class models by having a lowercase ‘g’ in its nameplate.
Design to be similar to the slab-sided and boxy G-Class
According to insiders, a major draw of the new, smaller G-Class is its traditional utilitarian design. Autocar UK has been told it will feature a squared-off profile with flat, near-vertical surfaces, giving it a distinctive, military-grade look. It will also adopt a glasshouse with an almost flat windscreen, side windows, and rear screen.
Little G to have a lower drag coefficient than the G 580’s 0.44
Despite its upright design and generous ground clearance, Mercedes is said to have achieved a drag coefficient “well below” the 0.44 of the G 580.
Mercedes Little G interior
Cabin layout likely to be similar to the third-generation CLA
Unlike its exterior design, the Little G's interior will be different from the rest of the G-Class range. The 5-seat cabin is likely to be similar in look and borrow elements from the new third-generation CLA.
Mercedes Little G powertrain and 4x4 tech
To use Mercedes’ new eATS 2.0 electric motors
Power for the standard entry-level Little G is set to come from Mercedes’ new eATS 2.0 electric motors. Different from the Siemens Valeo motors used in current Mercedes EVs, the new setup adopts a 2-speed gearbox, among other changes, for added efficiency and refinement.
Little G’s 4x4 system will mimic the G-Class’ three mechanical differential locks
While the Little G will be based on the MB.EA platform, sources say an advanced four-wheel-drive system is in the works. This new setup is said to be capable of mimicking the three mechanical differential locks of the G-Class. Alongside this, the new entry-level 4x4 will get dedicated driving modes. A modified version of the GLC’s double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, with air springs offering variable ride height, will provide it with “outstanding” off-road capability.
Future performance models are also planned. Pencilled in to arrive in 2028, these models will use Mercedes-AMG’s new axial-flux electric motors, which will also be adopted by the upcoming CLA 45 and GT SUV.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
