Why Is the Mercedes G-Class Cabriolet Making a Comeback Now?
If you’ve ever spotted a Mercedes G-Class Cabriolet cruising down the street, you know it’s not just another SUV. It’s a rare sight—one that’s been missing from showrooms for almost a decade. So, why is Mercedes-Benz bringing back the open-top G-Class now? The answer is a mix of nostalgia, evolving market trends, and a dash of forward-thinking strategy.
First, let’s talk timing. The luxury off-road segment is booming, with buyers craving vehicles that blend rugged capability with high-end comfort. Mercedes has seen the G-Class become a status symbol, especially in the US and Middle East, where demand for unique, high-performance SUVs is sky-high. Reintroducing the Cabriolet taps into this appetite for exclusivity and adventure.
But there’s more to it. Mercedes is also looking to broaden its appeal as it electrifies its lineup and modernizes its brand. By offering the Cabriolet in markets like the US for the first time, they’re signaling that the G-Class isn’t just about tradition—it’s about innovation and inclusivity, too.
What’s the History Behind the G-Class Cabriolet?
The G-Class Cabriolet isn’t a new idea—it’s a legacy. The very first G-Class, launched in 1979, included a two-door soft-top version. Back then, it was a no-nonsense off-roader, beloved by everyone from military forces to outdoor enthusiasts. Over the years, the Cabriolet evolved, gaining luxury touches and more powerful engines, but always keeping that unmistakable boxy silhouette.
Perhaps the most jaw-dropping chapter was the 2017 Maybach G650 Landaulet. Imagine this: a twin-turbo V12, four doors, a split roof with a convertible rear section, and a price tag that made even seasoned collectors blink. Only 99 were made, and they sold out almost instantly. That model cemented the G-Class Cabriolet as a true collector’s item.
What Can We Expect from the New G-Class Cabriolet?
Mercedes hasn’t spilled all the beans yet, but the preview images and early details give us plenty to get excited about. The new Cabriolet will stick closely to the classic G-Class look—flat bonnet, upright windscreen, and that iconic rear-mounted spare wheel. The big change? A shortened roofline and subtle tweaks to accommodate a folding soft top.
Under the hood, things get even more interesting. While technical specs are still under wraps, it’s likely that buyers will have a choice between diesel, petrol, and—here’s the big news—electric powertrains. The current G450d diesel packs a punch with 362bhp, the G500 petrol offers 443bhp, and the mighty G63 V8 delivers 577bhp. For those eyeing the future, the electric G580 boasts 579bhp and a hefty 116kWh battery, promising serious performance with zero emissions.
How Much Will the New Cabriolet Cost?
Let’s be honest—the G-Class has never been a bargain buy. The Cabriolet, with its added exclusivity and engineering complexity, is expected to command a significant premium over the standard model. Current G-Class prices start north of £130,000, and the Cabriolet will almost certainly push well beyond that. For collectors and enthusiasts, though, the price is part of the allure. You’re not just buying a car—you’re buying a piece of automotive history.
Will the G-Class Cabriolet Be Available Everywhere?
Here’s some good news for fans outside Europe: Mercedes has confirmed that the new Cabriolet will be offered “almost everywhere in the world,” including the US for the first time. That’s a big shift, reflecting the global appetite for unique luxury vehicles. Whether you’re in Los Angeles, London, or Dubai, the open-air G-Class experience will soon be within reach.
How Does the Cabriolet Fit into Mercedes’ Future Plans?
The return of the G-Class Cabriolet isn’t just about looking back—it’s about setting the stage for what’s next. Mercedes is in the midst of a major transformation, investing heavily in electrification and digital technology. Alongside the Cabriolet, the company is developing a “little G”—a more compact, affordable version of the G-Class built on the new MMA platform. This move aims to attract younger buyers and expand the G-Class family without diluting its legendary status.
At the same time, the Cabriolet serves as a halo model, showcasing Mercedes’ ability to blend tradition with innovation. It’s a statement: the brand can honor its roots while embracing the future.
What’s the Real-World Appeal of an Open-Top G-Class?
Let’s face it—most G-Class owners aren’t scaling mountains or fording rivers every weekend. But the Cabriolet offers something unique: the thrill of open-air driving combined with the go-anywhere confidence of a true off-roader. Imagine a summer road trip along the coast, the roof down, the V8 (or electric motors) humming, and the wind in your hair. It’s an experience that’s hard to match.
And for those who want to stand out, the Cabriolet is a conversation starter. It’s not just another luxury SUV—it’s a rolling piece of art, a nod to history, and a bold statement about living life with the top down.
The Takeaway: Why the G-Class Cabriolet Matters
The comeback of the Mercedes G-Class Cabriolet is more than just a new model launch—it’s a celebration of heritage, innovation, and the enduring appeal of open-air adventure. Whether you’re a die-hard G-Wagon fan or just someone who appreciates the finer things in life, this is a vehicle that promises to turn heads and stir souls.
With its blend of classic design, cutting-edge technology, and global availability, the new Cabriolet is set to write the next chapter in the G-Class story. And if history is any guide, it’ll be a chapter worth reading—preferably with the roof down and the open road ahead.