Smaller Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV in the works

Mercedes has begun work on a rugged SUV inspired by the iconic G-Class. This new SUV will be smaller than the G-Class and serve as a flagship for the brand’s new 'entry luxury' SUV line-up. Mercedes will offer the new SUV with both electric as well as combustion powertrains.

1. New Junior G-class will share platform with the GLA
2. Will be crucial in establishing the G as a separate brand
3. Will have multiple powertrain options

Mercedes Junior G-Class platform details

The full-sized EQG uses a reworked version of the existing combustion-engined G-Class’s ladder-frame chassis. The smaller SUV, however, would sit on the versatile Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA) platform that also underpins the next-gen Mercedes-Benz CLA and GLA. The junior SUV will arrive with a choice of ICE and EV powertrains.

Mercedes Junior G-Class: fifth entry luxury model

This new SUV would be Mercedes' fifth 'entry luxury' model if it gets the go-ahead, joining four others that will be unveiled over the next three years. It will give Mercedes a foothold in the increasingly popular global rugged crossover market – joining the inbound Jeep Avenger, Mini Aceman and Ford’s MEB-based electric crossover. The baby Mercedes-Benz G-Class would be crucial in establishing the ‘G’ as a Mercedes sub-brand in the same vein as Maybach and AMG, building on the success of its blocky Land Rover Defender rival.

Mercedes Junior G-Class will be an EV too

Like the upcoming CLA, the new compact SUV would have an 800V architecture that will help it charge from 10-80 percent within 30 minutes from a 350kW charger. The prospect of a new silicon-anode battery being introduced – tipped to be close to 100kWh in capacity – means it could offer a range far exceeding that of conventionally powered rivals. However, its upright stature means it is unlikely to approach the slippery EQXX concept’s 1,126km range.

A mild-hybrid combustion version could be offered, but Mercedes may opt against this in some markets, as the new ‘G’ sub-brand is about providing an “unparalleled combination of luxury and off-road ability for electric vehicles”, according to the firm’s boss of off-road vehicles, Emmerich Schiller.

Expect more details on the new G-Class Junior to trickle out in the coming months.

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