Mercedes-Benz's 'Baby' G-Class Won't Be EV Only

Mercedes-Benz is changing course. The automaker will no longer offer its upcoming "Baby" G-Class exclusively as a battery-electric vehicle. The new model will also allegedly feature a hybrid powertrain option.

According to a new Autocar report, Mercedes will put the CLA’s hybrid powertrain into the new off-roader. The turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder, which Horse Powertrain produces, makes up to 188 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque and features the electric motor in the eight-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission.  

It’s unclear if Mercedes will increase the hybrid powertrain’s output for the smaller G-Class entry. The report alleges that Mercedes will offer the off-road SUV exclusively with four-wheel drive, riding on a bespoke platform.  

The automaker apparently still has plans to launch the Baby G-Class as a battery-electric vehicle first, with production scheduled to begin sometime in 2027. Despite the model's smaller size, Mercedes wants it to be just as capable and rugged as the original.