Mercedes plans electric ‘little G' SUV for U.S. in 2027

MUNICH — Mercedes-Benz plans to launch deliveries of a compact, battery-powered version of the venerable G-Class SUV in the U.S. in the first half of 2027.

The mini G will retain the boxy profile of the original truck and ride on the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture, a new "electric-first" platform that will underpin compact and midsize vehicles, industry forecaster Sam Fiorani told Automotive News.

Production of the small, zero-emission G-Class begins in Kecskemet, Hungary, in late 2026, with annual production estimated at 50,000 vehicles, said Fiorani, vice president at AutoForecast Solutions.

Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius teased the compact G-Class this week ahead of the Munich auto show.

"There will be a smaller version of one of our most iconic shapes," Källenius said at an event Sunday. "Yes, there will be a little G."

The SUV could be badged "g-Class," based on a teaser photo. Mercedes declined to comment on where the SUV will be assembled or on launch timing.

Källenius said the EV "will be capable ... it will be instantly recognizable, and it will be a lot of fun to drive — both on and off the road."

The Modular Architecture will underpin four entry-level EVs — a coupe, a wagon and two utility vehicles.

The platform supports two battery cell chemistries — a cost-efficient lithium iron phosphate battery and a denser silicon oxide anode design. To reduce weight and boost rigidity, Mercedes uses adhesive, rather than screws, to attach battery cell modules.

The mini G aims to provide a ready-made market for Mercedes, similar to what Ford did with the Bronco and Volkswagen plans to do with the Scout.

"It's not just another compact crossover, but a G-Wagen, albeit less expensive and more accessible," Fiorani said.

The G-Class is among Mercedes' most expensive and profitable models. The smaller G-Class should cost significantly less than the current version, which starts at $141,050 including shipping.

Next year, Mercedes is expected to electrify the large G-Class SUV.

That model should deliver 430 kilowatts of combined power from four motors. The low RPM torque in the motors makes electric vehicles especially capable off-road.

Mercedes said the electric G-Class will have a new battery that is 20 to 40 percent more energy dense, helping reduce vehicle weight and extend driving range.