The “G” in Mercedes-Benz is no longer just a luxury monolith; it is becoming a brand. Following the success of the G-Class Electric (G 580), Mercedes is preparing to unleash the “Little G”—a more compact, urban-friendly off-roader that retains the unapologetic “brick” aesthetic of its elder sibling.
As of February 18, 2026, the first high-definition spy shots of production-ready prototypes have surfaced from winter testing near the Arctic Circle. These images confirm that the “Baby G” is not a soft-road crossover, but a serious entry into the “lifestyle 4×4” segment.
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The “Little G” Identity: A Legacy Distilled
Mercedes CEO Ola Källenius refers to the new model as the “son or daughter of the Big G.” To distinguish it from the flagship W465 series, Mercedes is reportedly branding it with a lowercase “g-Class.”
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Dimensions: Expected to be under 177 inches (4.5m) in length—roughly 70cm shorter than the standard G-Wagen.
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Target Audience: Positioned for younger, active urbanites who want the G-Class status symbol in a package that can actually parallel park.
Spied in the Arctic: Design Cues from the W465
The latest spy shots reveal a “tweaked” design language that Former Design Boss Gorden Wagener calls “even more modern.”
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Lighting: Features a new half-circle LED signature instead of the full ring, doubling as a turn signal. This replaces the iconic fender-mounted indicators of the big G.
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Silhouette: Retains the boxy proportions, flared wheel arches, and the rear-mounted spare tire case.
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Utility: Prototypes are sporting full-length roof racks and ladder setups, signaling a rugged, “accessory-heavy” lifestyle focus.
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Powertrain Pivot: Electric and Combustion Options
While the project was initially conceived as EV-only, the 2026 market reality of softer EV demand has forced a strategic pivot.
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The “Kinderwagen” Hybrid: Sources now hint at a 1.5L turbocharged plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option, likely borrowed from the upcoming “Core” lineup.
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Electric Specs: The EV version will likely use an 800-volt architecture, offering a range of at least 400km and a 10-80% top-up in just 15 minutes.
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All-Wheel Drive: Every model will feature 4MATIC AWD with dedicated off-road traction management.
Reality Check
The “Baby G” aims to be an affordable icon. Still, the estimated price of 50,000–60,000 is well above the GLA and GLB. Therefore, while it is “more accessible,” it remains a premium purchase. In fact, if Mercedes uses a monocoque-style hybrid platform instead of the promised “miniature ladder-frame” for the entry models, the “authenticity” of the G badge could be compromised.
The Loopholes
Mercedes is pitching this as an off-roader. In fact, its lower ride height in spied prototypes suggests it is more of a “soft-roader” for city streets. Therefore, the “off-road traction” might be more about software and torque vectoring than mechanical lockers. Still, the bespoke platform loophole—creating a unique chassis rather than using the MMA (CLA) platform—ensures that it won’t feel like “just another Benz SUV.”
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What This Means for You
If you have always wanted a G-Wagen but were deterred by the ₹3 crore price or the 14 mpg fuel economy, the Little G is your 2027 goal. First, wait for the 2026 Concept Reveal (likely at the Munich Motor Show) to see the final interior layout, which is rumored to feature the “Superscreen.” Then, calculate the cost-of-ownership; a hybrid Baby G will be significantly cheaper to run in Indian city traffic than a G 63.
Finally, realize that the AMG version (expected 2028) will likely be the most sought-after. You should look for “G-Brand” dedicated sections in Mercedes showrooms starting next year. Before you commit to a Land Rover Defender 90, follow the “Little G” winter testing updates, as the Mercedes aims to offer superior urban tech and better daily-driver comfort.
What’s Next
Mercedes is expected to drop an official “Little G” teaser campaign by late 2026. Then, the production model will debut in early 2027, likely being assembled at the Kecskemet plant in Hungary. Finally, look for the first India arrivals by late 2027, where it is projected to compete with the Land Rover Defender Sport.
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