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New Delhi: Mercedes-Benz is bringing back something fans of the brand never thought they’d see again, a convertible version of the iconic G-Class. The German automaker has confirmed that a cabriolet model is officially in the works, making it the first open-top G in years.
The G-Class is no stranger to experiments. Over the decades it has gone from a barebones military workhorse to a luxury icon parked outside five-star hotels in Los Angeles and Dubai. Now, for the 2026 model year, it will once again ditch its roof and return as a cabriolet, this time for global markets including the United States.
The last time Mercedes offered something like this was in 2018, when it built the ultra-exclusive Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet. Only 99 units of that soft-top beast were made, and while the company never publicly revealed the price, estimates hovered around 550,000 USD (₹4.67 crore). It was more collector’s toy than production car, which is why enthusiasts were convinced the cabriolet era had ended.
Mercedes says this new model will be very different. Unlike the Landaulet that was aimed at collectors, the upcoming cabriolet will be sold in nearly every market where the G-Class is available. That means more buyers, more visibility, and potentially a new status symbol for those who want the rugged look with an open sky above.
So far, Mercedes has only teased a shadowy image. From the outline, it looks like the cabriolet will use a Landaulet-style roof mechanism. Details about engines or trims haven’t been shared, but since the G-Class just received a facelift for 2025, the cabriolet is expected to carry over the same refreshed sheetmetal.
A proper reveal could come as early as the IAA Mobility show in Munich. It’s usually dominated by electric debuts, but German brands like Mercedes often use it to drop surprises. Even if it skips that stage, the open-roof G is likely to make its market entry sometime in 2026.
For Mercedes, this move isn’t about off-roading glory. Most G-Wagens today rarely see mud or rocky terrain. For most buyers, they’re more of a fashion statement than a military-grade tool. The cabriolet will likely lean into that reality. Think of it as an open-air luxury cruiser that still carries the unmistakable boxy charm of the G-Class.
For fans of rare body styles, this is also a bit of history repeating itself. Cabriolet SUVs are almost extinct, with only a handful ever making it past concept stage. Mercedes seems confident that its loyal G-Class customer base will happily pay extra for the open-top experience.
There’s no word yet on pricing, but expect it to sit above the standard G-Class range. Considering the G 550 already costs well above 140,000 USD (₹1.19 crore), the cabriolet could easily cross into rarified territory.
