- Mercedes teases a new G-Class Cabriolet with a folding roof, set for global sales including the US.
- The model draws from the G550, skipping electric options for now, with a likely premium price over $149,400.
- Expect a debut before year-end and sales in 2026, marking a milestone after the 600,000th G-Class built.
Mercedes teases a new G-Class with a folding roof, built at the Magna Steyr plant in Graz. The company shares a shadowy preview but stays quiet on specifics. They confirm global sales, including in the United States. This move excites off-road enthusiasts and luxury buyers alike.
History of the G-Class Cabriolet and Its Long Absence
The G-Class boasts a rich past with convertible models. Mercedes produced the last regular Cabriolet over a decade ago. The 2017 Landaulet offered an open-top experience, but its exclusivity left many wanting more. That model featured a unique setup for rear passengers.
The modern G-Class, launched in 2018, stuck to closed roofs. Brabus and others filled the gap with modifications. These often included dramatic changes like suicide doors. Still, fans pushed for an official version from Mercedes.
This absence highlights shifts in the auto industry. Safety rules and market demands favored SUVs with fixed tops. Convertibles faced challenges in maintaining rigidity for off-road use. Mercedes focused on other variants, like the G63 4×4² with portal axles. That model delivered extreme performance under the AMG badge.
Data shows G-Class sales have climbed steadily. Mercedes hit a milestone last month with the 600,000th unit built, 46 years after the first. This success likely encouraged the Cabriolet’s return. You can see how demand for unique models drives decisions in luxury segments.
For more on G-Class evolution, link to our article on Mercedes off-road history.
Design Clues from the New G-Class Cabriolet Teaser
The teaser image reveals a Landaulet-style profile. Roof edges stretch to the rear, unlike the shorter roof on older Cabriolets. This suggests a longer, more practical design. Expect rear doors, as the current G-Class sells only in four-door form.
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Mercedes avoids extremes here. Skip the portal axles and V-12 from the old Landaulet. Instead, look for a standard G550 setup with a folding fabric roof. This keeps things accessible for daily drives and adventures.
The preview skips any “EQ with Technology” mention. That points to a gas-powered base, not the electric G580 from last year. A G450d diesel option might join, given the global reach. You get versatility across markets.
Compare this to the G63 4×4². That AMG beast pushed boundaries with its axles. The new Cabriolet stays branded as a Benz, focusing on comfort over raw power.
Engine Options and Performance Expectations for the New G-Class Cabriolet
Power comes from familiar sources. The G550 uses a setup without hybrid extras mentioned. Performance matches the standard model, suited for off-road and highway use.
No electric version yet, based on the release. The G580 electric debuted last year with four motors. This Cabriolet sticks to gas or diesel for now. That choice fits buyers seeking traditional engines.
Expect solid stats. The current G550 starts at $149,400 with destination. Add a premium for the convertible. Sales kick off in 2026, after a debut before year’s end.
In the auto industry, convertibles often cost 10-20 percent more than hardtops. Factor that into your budget if you eye this model.
Link to our review of the G580 electric for comparison on powertrains.
Market Availability and Pricing Insights
Mercedes plans wide availability. Nearly every market gets the new model, including the US. This broadens appeal beyond Europe.
Pricing remains unconfirmed. Base your estimate on the G550 at $149,400. The Cabriolet adds cost for the roof mechanism and reinforcements.
Look at past models. The Landaulet fetched high prices due to rarity. This version aims for broader sales.
Industry trends show luxury SUVs like the G-Class hold value well. Resale data from similar models supports this. You benefit from strong demand if you buy one.
Mercedes brings back the Cabriolet to expand the G-Class lineup. The teaser promises a practical design with global sales. Stick to gas engines for this launch, with a debut soon.
