Mercedes-Benz shrinks the legend: electric "Mini G" is officially coming

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is an unmistakable icon on and off the road. Its boxy, military-derived shape is a symbol of rugged capability and unapologetic luxury. But now, the German automaker is officially preparing to bring that legendary formula to a smaller package. After years of rumors, top executives have confirmed that a "Mini G-Class" is in development, and it's bringing some big changes with it.

Company leaders during the Munich motor show put speculation to rest, announcing that a more compact G-Class is well underway. A darkened teaser image flashed for the audience, revealing a vehicle that is, without a doubt, a G-Wagen. The familiar boxy silhouette, the side-hinged rear door, the externally mounted spare wheel, and the distinct taillights are all present.

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According to Mercedes design chief Gorden Wagener, the goal is to keep the family resemblance strong. He noted the team will "stick to the G," but give the smaller model "a bit more sharpness" and "younger graphics" to make it feel like a modern evolution.

The commitment to authenticity runs deep. Markus Schafer, the company's technology leader, explained that creating a convincing smaller G-Class required developing many unique parts. Engineers couldn't just borrow from the existing Mercedes parts bin. "I can't even take a door handle from the shelf, because the G-Class has such unique door handles," Schafer said. This attention to detail suggests the final product will look and feel like a true member of the G-Class family, not just a look-alike.

Underneath its familiar skin, the small off-roader will be entirely new. It will not share its foundation with other compact Mercedes models. Instead, it will ride on a purpose-built platform described as a "miniature ladder-frame chassis." A traditional ladder-frame is the gold standard for serious off-road vehicles due to its strength and durability.

Reports indicate that, unlike the original G-Wagen, which offers customers a choice between gasoline engines and a fully electric powertrain in the EQG model, the new, smaller model will launch exclusively as an electric vehicle, instantly making it a key player in the premium market for electric cars and EVs. When asked about it, company officials remained coy, with Schafer simply telling reporters to "stay tuned."

Mercedes CEO Ola Kallenius said that the first test prototypes will "be appearing on roads very soon." The arrival of the camouflaged test cars is great news - it means the project is advancing from computer screens to real-world validation. It also puts Mercedes in a brewing battle for the compact luxury off-roader segment, as rival Jaguar Land Rover is also rumored to be developing a smaller version of its popular Defender.

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