Mercedes-Benz is preparing to reintroduce the G-Class Cabriolet, an open-top version of its rugged luxury off-roader, after almost a decade off the market. New photos show the drop-top model in testing, with its fabric roof folded down and occupying the rear cargo area where the trunk usually sits.
New Images Reveal AMG Variant
The images feature a prototype of the G-Class Cabriolet in a high-performance AMG trim. It has distinctive side-exit exhaust pipes, which are a signature detail of the AMG G63 model. While exact technical details have not been shared yet, the regular AMG G63 uses a 577 horsepower twin-turbo V8 engine, which the Cabriolet version is likely to adopt or adapt.
History of G-Class Cabriolets
The open-top G-Class has a long history. The original two-door short-wheelbase G-Class Cabriolet debuted in 1979 and was produced until 2013. In addition, Mercedes built an ultra-luxury four-door version called the Maybach G650 Landaulet in 2017. This rare model combined a hardtop front with a folding rear roof and featured a powerful 621 horsepower V12 engine. Just 99 Maybach Landaulets were made, and they were priced close to £600,000 in the UK.
Launch Timing and Pricing
Although Mercedes-Benz has not announced an official launch date, the current testing stage and close relation to the regular model suggest the Cabriolet could arrive within the coming months. Customers should expect a significant price increase over the standard G-Class, which starts at over £130,000 in the UK.
More details about the Cabriolet’s specifications and features are likely to emerge as the launch approaches.
Source: autocar.co.uk