Mercedes will bring the concept of its G-Wagen into the 21st century with a modern interpretation of the classic SUV. Mercedes is said to be working on a “mini-G” that will share a platform with its new A-Class small car.
According to Car, Mercedes is readying a smaller SUV inspired by the G-Wagen that will go head-to-head with Land Rover's updated Defender model. Likely to be called the GLG for production, the smaller SUV will adopt most of the G-Wagen's chunky exterior design, including the G's horizontal roofline and upright tailgate. The GLG will also sport G-inspired round headlights, fender-mounted turn signals, boxy rear taillights and possibly even an external spare tire.
Despite its rugged looks, the GLG will come standard with front-wheel drive. However, Mercedes is planning a version of the rig with 4Matic all-wheel drive, which should make the GLG a formidable off-roader.
The GLG will be quipped with a variety of small displacement gas and diesel engines, but, as with the G-Wagen, Mercedes is also planning a hotter AMG version of the Defender rival. The GLG AMG will reportedly arrive with 350 horsepower, all-wheel drive, upgrade brakes and a quicker steering rack.
Mercedes has yet to green light the mini-G, but executives are said to be leaning toward a production nod. If given the go-ahead, the GLG could arrive by 2015.
