The iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class is set to make a comeback in a cabriolet form, marking its first appearance in nearly a decade. The luxury automaker has recently shared official “spy” photos of the G-Class Cabriolet undergoing road tests in Austria, close to the Magna Steyr facilities where production will take place alongside its four-door hardtop counterpart. Following these tests, the prototype fleet will be transported to Sweden for extreme cold weather evaluations.
Mercedes-Benz has not disclosed a specific release date for the new Cabriolet, but it is expected to reach dealerships before the northern summer in the middle of 2026. Additional information regarding the G-Class Cabrio will be provided in due course, according to the manufacturer. Notably, Mercedes-Benz has classified the G-Class Cabriolet as a “special edition,” which suggests that it will be produced in limited quantities.
The history of the G-Class Cabriolet dates back to its first-generation model introduced in 1979. This earlier version was based on the short wheelbase two-door model and remained in production until 2013. Since then, the only soft-top variant has been the 2017 Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet, a high-end limited edition based on the four-door G-Class and equipped with a twin-turbo V12 engine producing 463 kW.
The new cabriolet is expected to follow the design language of the current G-Class, which is exclusively available as a four-door vehicle. From the released images, it is evident that the Cabriolet will feature redesigned rear quarter panels and a half-height swing-out tailgate to accommodate the folding soft top that extends to the A-pillar. The prototype shown includes a spare wheel on the tailgate and a visible rear axle, indicating that this model is powered by an internal combustion engine (ICE) rather than the electric G580 EQ variant.
In markets such as Australia, the G-Class lineup includes one petrol engine, one diesel, and one electric drivetrain. The entry-level model, the G450d, features a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel straight-six engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system that delivers a combined output of 270 kW and 705 Nm of torque. At the top of the range is the G63 AMG, which boasts a 4.0-litre twin-turbo engine, generating 430 kW and 850 Nm.
Sitting between these two models is the G580, which has struggled in sales despite its innovative features. The G580 is equipped with a motor at each wheel, enabling it to pivot on the spot, and provides drivers with a total output of 432 kW and an impressive 1165 Nm of torque. It is powered by a 116 kWh battery pack, offering a WLTP range of 473 km.
In conjunction with the G-Class Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz is also reportedly developing a smaller off-road model, referred to as the Baby G or Mini G. This new vehicle will feature a ladder-frame chassis akin to its larger counterparts, further expanding the G-Class family.
As Mercedes-Benz prepares for the G-Class Cabriolet’s return, enthusiasts and potential buyers alike are left eagerly anticipating more details about this special edition model.
