Mercedes Little G SUV to Rival Defender Sport with Hybrid and Electric Options

Mercedes-Benz is gearing up to introduce the Little G, a new, compact SUV that will sit below the iconic G-Wagon in the brand’s lineup. Set to rival models like the Land Rover Defender Sport and the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, the Little G will offer both hybrid and electric powertrain options, marking a shift in Mercedes' strategy for its upcoming G-Class models. Initially expected to be electric-only, the new SUV will now cater to a wider range of customers by providing both traditional and greener powertrains.

Hybrid and Electric Powertrains

The Little G will be available with a hybrid engine derived from the CLA model. It is expected to feature a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol-hybrid engine, producing 190hp and 300Nm of torque. This engine will offer four-wheel drive, making the hybrid model capable of tackling off-road terrain. 

Additionally, the engine can run on electric power alone, thanks to a gearbox-mounted electric motor. The hybrid version will deliver a balance of power and efficiency, ideal for customers who need versatility in both urban and off-road settings.

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Electric Powertrain with Impressive Range

For those who prefer an all-electric option, the Little G will be powered by an 85kWh battery pack, offering an impressive 724 km range (WLTP). The electric version is expected to feature a dual-motor setup, with the rear motor being the more powerful unit. This setup will ensure that the electric Little G maintains the rugged off-road capabilities that the G-Class models are known for. Both the hybrid and electric versions will likely feature advanced power management with torque vectoring, enabling each wheel to receive power individually for better off-road handling.

Rugged Design and New Platform

The Little G will adopt a rugged, boxy design, closely resembling the larger G-Class SUV. However, unlike the G-Class, which uses a monocoque chassis, the Little G will be built on a bespoke platform with a ladder-frame chassis, making it more suited for off-road adventures. The new architecture ensures the SUV stays true to the G-Class heritage while being compact enough to appeal to a broader market.

Spy photos of the test mules show that the Little G will feature signature G-Class elements, such as round headlamps, hood-mounted indicators, and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel. The SUV is expected to be around 4.4 meters long, making it much shorter than the G-Class, which measures 1,969mm in height. This compact design will make the Little G more nimble while maintaining its rugged appeal.

Balancing Hybrid and Electric Options

The decision to offer both hybrid and electric versions comes as Mercedes adapts to global market demands and regulatory requirements. The hybrid engine is likely a response to regions where EV infrastructure is still developing or where hybrid vehicles remain popular. The move also follows a shift in Mercedes’ strategy, especially after the unsatisfactory sales of the G-Class Electric. Similar to Porsche’s recent strategy with the Macan, Mercedes is now focusing on ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) and hybrid models alongside electric vehicles, keeping its options open for the future.

Production and Launch Timeline

Production of the Little G is set to begin in 2027, with the electric variant likely to launch first. This will mark a new chapter in the G-Class family, offering a mix of traditional and modern powertrains to meet a variety of customer needs. The Little G’s combination of electric efficiency and hybrid versatility is expected to make it a strong contender in the competitive off-road SUV market.

With its rugged design, advanced powertrains, and off-road capabilities, the Little G is set to bring a new level of versatility to the G-Class range, appealing to both eco-conscious buyers and those who still prefer the power of an internal combustion engine. As the SUV’s launch draws closer, more details are expected to emerge, adding to the anticipation around this exciting new model from Mercedes-Benz.

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