Mercedes-Benz to make convertible G-Wagon again

Mercedes-Benz is bringing back the G-class cabriolet. The convertible version of its six-figure sport utility vehicle, last seen in European markets more than a decade ago, is returning by popular demand.

“We have had so many fans say, ‘When are you going to bring it back?’” Mr Ola Kallenius, chief executive of Mercedes-Benz Group, said on the Bloomberg Hot Pursuit! podcast on Sept 3. “Now’s the time to do it. We have decided to kick off the development of an open-top G.”

Mercedes produced variations of an “open wagon” G throughout the 1980s and 1990s, which evolved into the G cabriolet designation until production ended in 2013. Soft-top G500s, in particular, are highly desirable on secondary markets, where prices hover around US$245,000 (S$315,900).

The brand will offer a convertible version of its G-Wagon in all relevant markets globally, including the United States for the first time, said Mr Kallenius. He declined to specify when production will start, stating only that it is “not too far away”.  

The news arrives as the Stuttgart, Germany-based carmaker tiptoes into the world of electric vehicles with the Gelandewagen, which made its debut in 1979. An electric version of the G-class has struggled to gain traction even as overall sales of the model line remain strong.

A smaller, so-called Baby G is expected to premiere by 2027; that two-door electric SUV will retain the distinctive boxy shape of the G-Class, but have a more accessible price point.  

Mr Kallenius declined to comment on the planned drivetrain of the coming convertible, but he noted that the most fervent of G-Wagon followers would not be disappointed. “Trust me,” he said, “the hardcore G fans are going to love what we’re going to do there”. BLOOMBERG