Mercedes to launch smaller version of G Class luxury SUV

mercedes benz The German automaker’s chief executive told CNBC on Sunday that it plans to launch a smaller version of its high-end G-Class sport utility vehicle.

The G-Class is a rugged off-roader that starts at under $140,000 and is popular with American buyers for more than four decades. Mercedes has redesigned the model with more technology and even unveiled a concept electric version of the car.

Now, Mercedes CEO Ola Kallenius has confirmed that a “little G,” a scaled-down version of the G-Class, is on the way.

“In a few years, such a kind daughter or son of Big G will also appear in front of G fans around the world,” Conlinsong told CNBC’s Annette Weisbach.

The CEO said there is no “definite date” for when the model will be launched.

“If you’re waiting for something good, it’s worth the wait,” he said.

A smaller version of the G-Class could open up the model to a different buyer segment, and possibly compete in the luxury SUV segment with rivals like the Range Rover and Bentley Bentayga at a different price point.

The G-Class has a reputation for being hard to come by, and Mercedes controls the supply of luxury off-roaders.

The tight supply situation is likely to persist, Conlinson said.

“The G-Class is an icon, it’s hard to come by. If you do get one, it feels almost like your birthday, and we’re going to manage G-Class sales very, very carefully,” he said.