Mercedes-Benz has officially confirmed the return of the G-Class Cabriolet, an open-top variant of its iconic G-Wagen SUV, making a comeback after being absent from the lineup for over a decade.

Also Read: Why Some People Prefer Mercedes-Benz Over Toyota

This time, the convertible model is not just a niche version, it’s set to be offered in nearly every market, including the United States .

What We Know So Far

The teaser image hints at a four-door body with a retractable soft-top roof, echoing the design language of the G-Class while introducing open-air allure, reminiscent of the Maybach G650 Landaulet .

Mercedes says the new Cabriolet will be in mass production, not a limited edition as in prior releases .

Historical Context & Why It Matters

The last factory-produced G-Class Cabriolet was the G500 Cabriolet, available between the late 1990s and 2013, known for blending rugged utility with luxury features like leather interiors and a V8 engine .

Mercedes also previously unveiled the lavish G650 Landaulet in 2017, an ultra-exclusive convertible version with a retractable rear roof, based on the G63 4×4² but only 99 units were produced .

Likely Timeline & Powertrain Options

Launch is expected during the 2026 model year, following the 2025 G-Class facelift .

Engine options could mirror the existing lineup:

• Diesel (e.g., G450d)
• Petrol inline-six (G500)
• Twin-turbo V8 (G63)
• Possibly electric (G580 EV) .

Quick Summary: What to Expect

Feature Details

Body Style Four-door G-Class with retractable soft-top roof

Market Availability Global—including U.S.—unlike past limited editions

Model Launch Likely 2026 model year, post-2025 facelift

Powertrain Options Diesel, petrol (inline-six & V8), possibly electric

Historical Precedent G500 Cabriolet (1999–2013); G650 Landaulet (2017, ultra-luxury)

A Legendary SUV With the Roof Down

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class Cabriolet, a cult favorite among luxury off-road enthusiasts has officially been confirmed for a global comeback. For the first time in more than a decade, the drop-top G-Wagen will re-enter production, but unlike previous niche editions, this one is expected to hit major markets worldwide, including the United States. Mercedes made the announcement with a teaser rendering, sparking excitement among fans of rugged luxury who have long demanded a return of the convertible version.

What’s Different This Time?

In its previous generations, the convertible G-Wagen was mostly limited to two-door configurations with very restricted production runs. The last widely available model, the G500 Cabriolet, disappeared in 2013 after years of serving as an exotic status symbol for wealthy collectors. Then, in 2017, Mercedes briefly revived the idea with the Mercedes-Maybach G650 Landaulet, an ultra-exclusive open-top V12-powered SUV only 99 units were ever made.

But in this new era, Mercedes has confirmed that the upcoming Cabriolet will be a four-door body style, blending the practicality of the standard G-Class with the thrill of open-air driving. Early reports suggest the use of a retractable soft-top roof, similar in spirit to the Landaulet but designed for mass-market production rather than ultra-limited luxury.

Powertrain Options & Performance

While final specifications remain under wraps, insiders suggest the convertible G-Class will follow the post-2025 G-Class facelift lineup, meaning buyers can expect:

• Diesel variants such as the G450d for select global markets.
• Petrol inline-six options, like the G500.
• The iconic AMG G63 with its thunderous twin-turbo V8.
• Potential inclusion of the electric G580 EQ variant, expanding Mercedes’ EV footprint into the convertible SUV segment.

This breadth of options ensures the Cabriolet won’t just be a flashy style piece, it will retain the G-Class’s legendary off-road capability while introducing multiple performance and eco-friendly options.

Why the Timing Matters

Mercedes’ decision comes as luxury buyers demand more exclusivity and lifestyle-oriented SUVs. Competitors such as Land Rover have successfully marketed limited-run lifestyle variants, while brands like Rolls-Royce and Bentley push convertible luxury boundaries. By bringing back the Cabriolet G-Wagen, Mercedes is signaling confidence in both the heritage appeal of the G-Class and the new appetite for high-end customization.

Moreover, this marks the first time Mercedes intends to produce the convertible G-Wagen in significant volumes, meaning it will be more accessible than its predecessors. For U.S. buyers in particular, this is groundbreaking previous generations of the convertible were almost entirely excluded from that market.

When Can We Expect It?

The Cabriolet is expected to debut as a 2026 model, arriving after the rollout of the 2025 G-Class facelift. That facelift already brought design refinements, modernized interiors, and updated powertrains laying the groundwork for a convertible model that will feel contemporary while staying true to the G-Wagen’s iconic boxy silhouette.

Quick Takeaway: Open-Air Luxury Meets Off-Road Power

The return of the G-Class Cabriolet is more than nostalgia, it’s Mercedes-Benz reasserting the G-Wagen as a cultural icon, blending raw capability with unparalleled luxury. Whether powered by diesel, petrol, V8 thunder, or silent electric torque, the Cabriolet G-Wagen will cater to a wide range of enthusiasts.

And this time, it won’t just be for the select few, it’s coming to global markets in mass production.

Toyota Hilux vs Ford Ranger: two legendary pickups. Which one is truly the world’s toughest and which serves Nigerians better?

Also Read: 6 Strong Cars That Are Built to Last: A RoadKing Spotlight

1. Durability & Reliability: Hilux is legendary for surviving war zones, mining, farms, and the harshest African terrain. Ranger is strong but slightly more tech-sensitive. Edge: Hilux.
2. Performance & Comfort: Ranger brings powerful engines, better ride comfort, and modern interiors. Hilux prioritizes toughness over luxury. Edge: Ranger.
3. Maintenance & Parts (Nigeria): Toyota’s dealer + aftermarket dominance ensures Hilux parts are everywhere. Ford parts exist but depend heavily on Coscharis. Edge: Hilux.
4. Resale Value: Hilux is like gold in Nigeria’s used market; Ranger depreciates faster. Edge: Hilux.
5. Safety & Tech: Ranger packs more driver-assist and modern crash safety systems. Hilux keeps it rugged but slightly dated. Edge: Ranger.
6. Verdict: Globally, Ranger has closed the gap. In Nigeria, the Hilux is still the king its durability, resale, and parts access make it the real World’s Toughest Pickup Truck for our roads.

Why This Rivalry Matters

Nigeria’s roads from Lagos potholes to Enugu erosion gullies, Abuja expressways to Benin-Ore death traps are the ultimate test for any pickup. Here, pickups are not just vehicles; they’re lifelines for businesses, construction firms, farms, oil workers, and even government fleets.

The Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger dominate this segment. Both are tough, both are global icons, and both claim to be the world’s toughest pickup truck. But which truly deserves the crown — and more importantly, which one serves Nigerians better?

Global Reputation: Warhorse vs Modern Challenger

Toyota Hilux

The Hilux is a legend in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. It has served in wars, deserts, mountains, and disaster zones.

Militants, UN peacekeepers, and mining companies alike use it because it is near indestructible. It has earned the nickname “the pickup that will not die.”

Ford Ranger

The Ranger, especially in its latest generation, has become Ford’s global workhorse. In Australia, one of the harshest pickup markets, the Ranger outsells Hilux some years because of its engine power, comfort, and safety features.

In South Africa and Nigeria, it’s gaining ground. But it is still seen as more “sophisticated” compared to the Hilux’s rugged reliability.

Powertrain & Performance

Hilux

Toyota Hildebrand

• Engines: 2.4L and 2.8L diesel (globally); 2.7L petrol available in some markets.
• Torque: Up to 500 Nm in latest 2.8L turbo diesel.
• Strength: Focuses on durability and fuel efficiency, not outright horsepower.

Ranger

• Engines: 2.0L bi-turbo diesel, 3.2L five-cylinder diesel, and even a 3.0L V6 in the Ranger Raptor.
• Torque: Up to 600 Nm (V6 models).
• Strength: More powerful, smoother highway cruiser, better towing ability.

Verdict: The Ranger wins on raw power and driving comfort, but the Hilux’s simpler engines often last longer in Nigeria where fuel quality varies.

Durability & Reliability

Hilux

• Known to survive extreme abuse with minimal breakdown.
• Used in Nigerian farms, northern rough terrains, and military fleets because of its bulletproof suspension and long-lasting engines.
• Reputation: “Buy once, drive for 20 years.”

Ranger

• Strong frame and durability, but its complex electronics can be a weakness in rural Nigeria where diagnostics are limited.
• Needs more specialist maintenance compared to the Hilux.

Verdict: Hilux is more reliable for Nigerian conditions, where access to advanced workshops is limited.

Safety

• Hilux: Solid crash ratings, but fewer driver-assist features in lower trims.
• Ranger: Multiple safety awards, advanced systems like lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring.

Verdict: Ranger is safer on paper, but in Nigeria, poor road markings and limited highway discipline often neutralize advanced safety tech.

Maintenance & Parts in Nigeria

• Hilux (Toyota Nigeria – CFAO/Stallion): Massive parts availability; Ladipo market in Lagos, Ariaria in Aba, and Kaduna all stock Hilux parts. Every mechanic knows how to fix one.
• Ranger (Ford Nigeria – Coscharis): Official dealer network but smaller reach. Parts are available but less common, sometimes pricier, and often imported on demand.

Verdict: Hilux wins by far, parts are everywhere, even in rural towns.

Resale Value

• Hilux: Holds value like gold in Nigeria; resale after 5 years is still very strong. Sometimes Hilux Tokunbo prices are almost equal to new.
• Ranger: Depreciates faster; buyers fear higher maintenance costs.

Verdict: Hilux dominates resale value.

Comfort & Tech

• Hilux: Rugged, simple, reliable interior. Less luxurious, more “workhorse.”
• Ranger: Plush interior, more like an SUV inside. Comfortable on highways and city driving.

Verdict: Ranger wins for buyers who want lifestyle + work use.

Fuel Economy & Cost of Ownership

• Hilux: Efficient, especially in 2.4L diesel. Handles bad fuel better.
• Ranger: Strong engines but more fuel-hungry, especially V6 models. Sensitive to poor-quality diesel.

Verdict: Hilux edges out in long-term fuel and service savings.

Real-World Nigerian Test

• Lagos traffic & potholes: Both handle well, but Hilux’s simpler suspension survives longer without bushing replacement.
• Enugu erosion roads: Hilux climbs better with fewer repairs; Ranger’s electronics sometimes suffer.
• Benin-Ore highway: Ranger is more comfortable at speed, with better stability.
• Northern terrain: Hilux preferred by fleets (military, NGOs, oil firms) for reliability.

Global Extremes

• Hilux: Survived BBC’s Top Gear torture test, dropped from buildings, set on fire, submerged and still started. Used in Syrian and African conflicts.
• Ranger: Australia’s police, mining, and rescue fleets rely heavily on it for toughness and towing.

The RoadKing Verdict

• Globally: Ranger is closing the gap more power, safety, and comfort.
• Nigeria: Hilux remains the undisputed king, thanks to reliability, resale, and parts availability.

If you want a pickup that will last 20 years with minimal issues buy a Hilux.

If you want comfort, tech, and highway power buy a Ranger, but be ready for higher maintenance.

Buyer’s Guide (Nigeria 2025)

• Private use (city + highway): Ranger (modern features, comfort).
• Fleet (business, NGO, govt): Hilux (durability, resale, low downtime).
• Farming/rough terrain: Hilux (bulletproof suspension).
• Mixed lifestyle + work: Ranger (SUV-like comfort, but budget for parts).

Hyundai or Kia, which one actually survives Lagos potholes, Enugu rain, and Abuja heat without draining your pocket? We tested the rivalry the RoadKing way. 

Also Read: 2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid: Redefined for Efficiency, Comfort, and Value

Reliability & Durability: Both brands now score well globally; Hyundai-Kia group racks up strong safety awards and improved reliability.

• Edge: Draw, with a slight tilt to Hyundai for warranty coverage clarity.

Safety: Hyundai Motor Group (Hyundai + Kia) leads recent IIHS awards, with multiple 2025 TOP SAFETY PICK/TSP+ winners.

• Edge: Draw at group level; model-by-model checks matter.

Maintenance & Parts in Nigeria: Official networks exist for both: Hyundai via Stallion Group, Kia via Dana Motors (with local assembly history). Urban parts access is decent; verify model-specific availability.

• Edge: Slight Kia advantage where Dana’s network stocks common SUV/crossover parts; Slight Hyundai advantage in warranty. Overall: Draw.

Resale Value: Both depreciate faster than Toyota/Honda globally; bargains as Tokunbo or nearly-new.

• Edge: Draw to Slight Kia depreciation (good for buyers, not sellers).

Nigerian Road Adaptability: Compact crossovers (Tucson, Sportage, Seltos, Creta) with higher clearance fare best on bad roads.

• Edge: Model-dependent Draw.

Verdict: Buy the best-maintained, best-documented unit in the specific model you want; prioritize ground clearance, cooling, and parts stocking. If buying brand-new, Hyundai’s warranty terms are a practical win. If buying used, shop depreciation in Kia/Hyundai for value, then validate service history.

The Background: Why This Rivalry Matters Here

Hyundai and Kia share platforms and technology under Hyundai Motor Group, but in Nigeria they’re sold and supported by different partners: Hyundai by Stallion Group and Kia by Dana Motors. That means similar engineering DNA, but different after sales networks, which can be decisive in Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Kano where dealer footprint and parts logistics matter.

Dana has assembled Kia models in Lagos under Nigeria’s auto policy, useful for local familiarity and parts stocking. Stallion has long distributed Hyundai, with service points and EV pilots. For buyers, this translates to real-world access to technicians, diagnostics, and faster parts turnarounds, especially for popular crossovers.

Reliability & Durability (Global Data, Local Reality)

Globally, Consumer Reports and others now place Hyundai and Kia among reliable mass-market brands, reflecting the group’s investment in powertrains and quality control. For 2025 models, they show strong reliability momentum. Locally, the story aligns when maintenance is done on schedule with proper fluids and genuine parts.

On dependability (3-year ownership), J.D. Power’s 2024 VDS highlights Toyota/Lexus at the top, but Hyundai/Kia have steadily improved since the 2010s. Takeaway for Nigeria: both brands are no longer the “cheap but fragile” choice, they’re credible daily drivers if you maintain them right and avoid flood-damaged imports.

RoadKing Tip: For used imports, scan for previous accident/flood markers, insist on OBD scans, and budget proactive replacement for cooling components, bushings, and dampers the parts most punished by our heat and rough roads.

Safety: Crashworthiness & Driver Aids

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded multiple 2025 TOP SAFETY PICK/TSP+ ratings across Hyundai and Kia lineups (Elantra/K4, Sonata, Ioniq 5/6, Tucson, etc.). Both brands pack advanced driver-assist (AEB, lane keep, blind spot). On Nigerian highways (Benin–Ore, Abuja–Lokoja), these features mitigate fatigue and surprises. Edge: Draw at group level, choose by the specific model’s IIHS/NHTSA rating.

Powertrain & Performance (With Nigerian Use in Mind)

Urban use: 1.6–2.0L petrol engines in Hyundai Creta/Tucson and Kia Seltos/Sportage balance fuel economy and torque. Dual-clutch or conventional automatics vary by trim; in traffic/heat, a well-cooled conventional torque-converter auto generally suffers less.

Highway/long-haul: 2.0–2.4L NA or the newer 1.6T engines offer confident overtakes; however, heat management is critical, keep radiators clean and fans healthy.

Ground clearance: Crossovers beat sedans. On untarred stretches or rainy season washouts, the Sportage/Tucson shine vs Cerato/Elantra.

(Confirm specific trims’ ratings at purchase; our roads punish low-slung sedans more.)

Warranty & Peace of Mind (New Buyers)

Hyundai advertises one of the industry’s strongest warranties: 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain (original owner), plus 7-year anti-perforation and roadside assistance. This is a practical safety net for Nigerian buyers choosing brand-new via the official channel. Note that the 10-year powertrain typically applies only to first owners, and regional terms can vary, verify with your local dealer.

Kia’s official Nigeria site emphasizes support and nationwide presence via Dana; warranty specifics should be confirmed at the dealership per model year and importer policy. Bottom line: If buying new, Hyundai’s globally advertised warranty structure is a slight comfort edge; Kia buyers should obtain written local warranty terms.

Maintenance, Parts & Aftersales (Nigeria)

Networks:

• Hyundai: Stallion Group – longstanding nationwide sales/aftersales presence.
• Kia: Dana Motors – sole distributor with assembly history and workshops nationwide.

Parts Access: Lagos’ Ladipo and other markets stock multi-brand components; Abuja’s Wuse has Volkswagen/Peugeot/Hyundai presence. Always prefer OEM or quality aftermarket; avoid counterfeit.

Costs: Global chatter says Hyundai/Kia parts can be pricier than expected for body panels; in Nigeria, wear items (pads, links, shocks) are available, but trim/panel parts may need ordering, factor in wait time.

What mechanics say: Success depends on specialist scanners and correct fluids (ATF/DCT-specific). A non-specialist “general” fix can create the myth of “Hyundai/Kia are fragile.” Our view: the brand is fine; the maintenance discipline is the variable.

Resale Value (Who Wins Your Wallet Later?)

On global forums and used-market trends, Hyundai/Kia depreciate faster than Toyota/Honda. For a Nigerian buyer, this is good news if you’re purchasing used (you get more car per naira), but softer if you plan to sell within 2–4 years. Check local demand for specific models (e.g., Sportage/Tucson hold better than small sedans).

Interior Tech, Comfort & Design

Both brands offer feature-rich cabins at friendlier prices: large infotainment, Android Auto/CarPlay, multiple USB-Cs, smart keys, and excellent NVH improvements since about 2018. Kia often leans stylish/edgy (e.g., Sportage’s cockpit), Hyundai leans clean/minimal (Tucson/Elantra). Test the AC performance at idle critical for gridlock.

Fuel Economy & Total Cost of Ownership

Hyundai and Kia mass-market petrol engines are generally efficient, especially newer CVVD/Smartstream units. In Nigeria, fuel quality variance can affect injectors and O2 sensors, use reputable stations, and consider shorter oil intervals (5k–7.5k km) to fight dust/heat. Punch’s roundups of low-maintenance cars often include models from these brands, indicating reasonable running costs if maintained properly.

Nigerian Road Reality Check (What to Inspect)

1. Ground Clearance: Prefer crossovers (Creta/Seltos; Tucson/Sportage).
2. Cooling: Inspect radiator, condenser, fans; insist on live-temp scans.
3. Suspension: Bushings, control arms, stabilizer links, budget refresh on used imports.
4. Transmission: Confirm fluid spec (ATF/DCT) and service history, wrong fluid ruins boxes.
5. Electrics: Scan for prior flood damage (rusty connectors, damp carpet smell).
6. Tires: Many imports arrive on old, hard rubber, replace with proper load/speed rating.

Model Matchups Nigerians Ask About

Hyundai Tucson vs Kia Sportage

Same basic platform and engines in many years, different tuning and design. Sportage skews stylish; Tucson skews refined. On truly rough patches, trims with multi-link rear and robust dampers feel calmer.

• Edge: Draw pick the better-kept unit and the dealer with parts-in-hand.

Hyundai Creta vs Kia Seltos

Both are city-friendly with enough clearance for bad roads at moderate speeds. Check rear shock health and engine mounts on used units.

• Edge: Draw, choose based on available safety tech (AEB) and the condition of the specific car.

Hyundai Elantra vs Kia Cerato (Forte)

Sedans ride lower; great for paved city/highway but less forgiving on cratered streets. If your commute includes deep gutters/speed bumps, budget for skid plates and careful driving.

• Edge: Draw unless your routes are rough, then pivot to crossovers.

Safety Awards Snapshot (Why It Matters)

In 2024–2025 testing, Hyundai Motor Group collected the most IIHS awards across Hyundai/Kia/Genesis, signaling strong crash protection and headlights performance. For families in Lagos/Abuja/Enugu doing school runs and intercity trips, this matters more than badge status. Verify the exact year/trim’s score before you buy.

Aftersales Networks You’ll Use

Hyundai Nigeria (Stallion Group): Nationwide sales/aftersales; official model lineup and dealer locator on Hyundai’s Nigeria site.

Kia Nigeria (Dana Motors): Sole distributor with service outlets; history of local assembly in Lagos-good sign for technical familiarity and parts logistics.

The RoadKing Verdict (Actionable)

If buying brand-new:

• Hyundai gets a slight edge for clearly advertised warranty coverage (confirm local specifics in writing).
• Kia remains highly competitive, let dealer parts availability and service package decide.

If buying used (Tokunbo or Nigerian-used):

• Target Hyundai/Kia crossovers (Tucson/Sportage/Creta/Seltos) with documented services.
• Leverage softer depreciation to get higher trim for less; spend the savings on cooling + suspension refresh.

Either way:

• Choose the dealer/workshop first, the badge second.
• Scan, test, and verify model-specific parts availability before you pay.

Bottom line: In 2025 Nigeria, Hyundai vs Kia is a draw decided by the specific car and the strength of your service network. Let warranty (new) or depreciation value (used) be your tiebreaker.