Mercedes-Benz is no longer keeping its “Baby G” prototype a secret.
Recently, an Autonocion photographer captured Mercedes driving around in the mini G-Class SUV prototype, wearing a very eye-catching camouflage that isn’t trying too hard to hide at all. Instead, it’s covered in small “G’s.” There is no denying that this is the G-Class’ smaller sibling, and Mercedes-Benz wants everyone to know.
Despite its pretty showy (and stylish) camo, not much is known about the Baby G so far.
What we know about the Baby G so far: it’s not all-electric and it’s cute
Baby G is just a nickname coined by car enthusiasts on the internet — and I sorta wish it were the legit name because it’s frankly quite cute. And the boxy, friendly design of this mini G-Class definitely has that Baby G energy. However, Mercedes has given us a possible hint at its real name.
The camouflage, as we mentioned before, includes “G’s” all over it. But the “G’s” are lowercase. This has some wondering if it will be called the “g-Class” due to its small stature compared to the OG Wagen. No proof, of course, but this would be a pretty trendy and fitting name as well, matching the Baby G’s cuter styling, which has created a bit of a rift amongst drivers. Some believe it’s “too cute” compared to the usual G-Class lineup, while some believe it’s less intimidating and more fun. I can see this kind of cutesy styling and name not really matching with the concept of a rugged, capable off-roader, but it could hit that more free-spirited, adventurous crowd.
No matter its name, there are some confirmed aspects of the Baby G that seem quite promising. First, the Baby G is confirmed to have a ladder-frame chassis distinct from the G-Wagen (W465), shown off when it was displayed at the IAA in Munich last year. It’s unclear how much of this relatively mysterious platform will borrow from the W465’s. The mini G will be a five-seater that’s about 173 inches long, with round headlights and a rear-mounted spare tire.
We also know it won’t be all-electric, as previously speculated. Despite Mercedes initially announcing its plan to go the EV route, the car community’s continued backlash soured that plan. The electric G-Class didn’t sell as well as intended last year, with an executive reportedly stating: “The car is sitting like lead at dealers; it’s a complete flop.” Now, the Baby G will come with a hybridized 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a dual-motor electric setup using Mercedes’ eATS tech. Both versions will be four-wheel drive and offer advanced torque management.
Production will begin in 2027. The electric version is coming first, followed by the hybrid. This is where the known information ends. We don’t know when it’s coming to the United States — or if it will at all. We also don’t know the price, though some believe it’s reasonable to assume it’ll be in the $50,000 range.
Going smaller seems to be the trend right now, and the Baby G fits in perfectly. Whether it’s America or overseas, the car market is demanding smaller, cheaper models to compete with China’s cost-effective EVs. Luxury SUVs are struggling, and Mercedes has been offering massive discounts due to a rapid decline in sales of its high-end models like the G-Wagen itself. America wants cheaper, smaller cars and the Baby G may be a good solution, offering a friendlier approach to off-roading.
