Mercedes-Benz is developing a smaller sibling to its iconic G-Class, internally dubbed “Classe g” with a lowercase “g,” a move that warrants attention in the automotive market. The vehicle, slated for release in 2027, isn’t intended to be just another urban SUV, but a genuine 4×4 positioned as “more accessible” to a wider range of consumers. The company has shifted its initial plans for a fully electric model towards a hybrid solution, utilizing a gasoline engine as a generator.
The development comes as demand grows for vehicles with a rugged aesthetic, durability for professional leverage and alternatives to increasingly common crossover SUVs. With the Suzuki Jimny becoming difficult to procure and the Jeep Wrangler becoming more expensive, and established players like Toyota Land Cruiser moving upmarket, an opportunity exists for a compact, value-driven 4×4 capable of off-road performance.
A Smaller G-Class, Not Just Another SUV
Mercedes-Benz intends to capture the square silhouette and presence of the G-Class, but in a more compact and modern package. The goal is clear: the vehicle should be instantly recognizable, without being a mere copy. For engineering observers, the key detail is that this “Classe g” will not share a platform or major components with the larger G-Class. This indicates a completely modern vehicle, designed for production and sales at scale, rather than a bespoke offering.
A reassuring aspect of the project is the planned architecture. The vehicle will feature a ladder-frame chassis, a design typical of off-road vehicles, in contrast to the monocoque construction of many modern SUVs. This choice implies added weight and packaging constraints, as well as higher industrial costs. If Mercedes-Benz follows through, it signals a commitment to genuine capability and a strong technical image. A separate chassis allows for greater suspension travel, better torsional rigidity, and the possibility of a robust all-wheel-drive system designed for demanding conditions.
A Hybrid Approach to Power
Initially, the “Classe g” was envisioned as a fully electric 4×4. On paper, this offered immediate torque, precise low-speed control, and quiet operation. However, practical considerations have led to a change in direction: hybrid versions are now planned, retaining an electric drive and a substantial battery, but with a gasoline engine serving as a generator to ensure range and simplify everyday use and long journeys.
The anticipated engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine originating from the Horse joint venture (Geely-Renault), used in the Mercedes CLA 220. This choice may raise eyebrows among purists, but the engine will primarily function as a generator, prioritizing efficiency, thermal stability, and consistent operation at optimized speeds.
The details that matter are the expected features. The company is planning a ladder-frame chassis, indicating a focus on off-road capability and load-carrying capacity. The decision underscores a commitment to delivering a vehicle that goes beyond aesthetics.
The project reflects a growing awareness in the automotive industry: European consumers are seeking more compact and versatile 4x4s, rather than simply SUVs with a rugged appearance. If Mercedes-Benz delivers on its promise of a ladder-frame chassis and genuine off-road capability, the “Classe g” could become a credible alternative for those who admire the G-Class but desire a more approachable, livable, and exclusive vehicle.
