CarBuzz spies have captured Mercedes-Benz testing the upcoming smaller G-Class, a model expected to launch next year, and the latest images from far up north provide the clearest look yet at the new “baby” G. At the same time, those same spy sources suggest something unexpected about the vehicle that was widely believed to be electric-only. It might not be fully electric after all.
Exterior
Even if the spied model is coming with a shrunken design, it doesn’t lose its off-road character. The model is also referred to as the mini G or Kinderwagen, preserves a boxy design language, with more curves than expected.
The flared arches are now more rounded, while the square spare tire carrier looks much more geometrical than before. The side windows are also much more rounded, providing an overall effect of a rugged yet exciting-looking G with the robustness that approaches it near the much larger G-Class sibling.
That said, the stance differs from the larger G, largely due to a significantly lower ride height. It appears somewhat slammed, and the cut-off rear side window does little to help the proportions, even if it echoes older G-Class convertible models. The half-glass seen in testing is believed to be camouflage rather than a genuine diagonal window.
Complete Powertrain Information
Spies suggest that internal combustion power may be coming to the mini G, despite earlier expectations that it would be purely electric. A year before the official teaser, Mercedes tech boss Markus Schäfer stated at CES that the small G would be fully electric, dismissing combustion rumors. By the IAA, however, Schäfer had shifted to a more cautious “stay tuned” stance. He is no longer with the company, and the direction now appears less certain.
There is no visual confirmation in the spy photos that a gas engine is present, but sources indicate they may have heard the sound of an engine rather than relying on speculation alone.
A move back to gasoline would not be entirely surprising. Mercedes-Benz is currently adjusting its electric strategy, with 24 new models expected to debut this year, 13 of which will feature gas engines. Originally, the company had planned to be fully electric by the end of the decade.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class – Spy Shots
Photo sources: carbuzz.com
