Mercedes-Benz previews upcoming G-Class Cabriolet

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the first official images of the upcoming G-Class Cabriolet. The arrival of a Cabriolet counterpart of the G-Class comes a decade after its previous version was discontinued. While a launch date has not been announced, the carmaker has already begun testing the SUV in Austria. 

1. Features a foldable roof with powered opening and closing
2. Expected to arrive in AMG guise with a 585hp twin-turbo V8 engine

Open-top versions have long been a part of the G-Class portfolio. The first was a two-door short-wheelbase model introduced as part of the original line-up in 1979 and was in production until 2013. Then, in 2017, came the Maybach G 650 Landaulet, a four-door SUV powered by a 630hp 6.0-litre V12 engine. 

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Cabriolet: Exterior

Retains rugged looks and gets a powered foldable roof

The G-Class Cabriolet shown in the images is partially camouflaged. The main distinction between this model and the standard G-Class is that the upper rear-most section has been chopped off to make way for a powered, foldable roof. The exposed boot is used up by the motorised roof when folded.

For the most part, its design is similar to that of the standard model, including circular LED headlamps, flared wheel arches, side steps, dual exhausts at the side and alloy wheels, which are likely to be 22 inches in size. Despite changes to its body to accommodate the foldable roof, it continues with a tailgate-mounted spare wheel. 

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Cabriolet: Interior

Expected to retain the standard counterpart’s cabin layout and design

Mercedes has not yet revealed the interior of the G-Class Cabriolet. But it is expected to feature a cabin layout and design similar to those of the standard model, which is offered with a wide range of customisation options. The regular G-Class comes with a dual-screen setup for the digital driver’s display and infotainment system, a dashboard-mounted grab handle and a turbine design for the air-conditioning vents. The convertible is expected to arrive with additional switchgear to control the foldable roof.

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Cabriolet: Expected powertrain

Likely to arrive with a twin-turbo V8

While powertrain details have not been confirmed, ‘AMG’ branded licence plates suggest that the G-Class Cabriolet would arrive in a ‘G 63’ avatar. For reference, the standard G 63 AMG gets a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid assist, producing 585hp and 850Nm of torque. The claimed 0-100kph time is 4.6 seconds, and it can reach a top speed of 220kph.

Though it remains to be seen whether the G-Class Cabriolet will arrive in India, it will likely be pricier than the standard G-Class SUVs in our market if it is launched here.