Mercedes & Moncler unveil a NIGO-designed, limited-edition G-Class
Mercedes-Benz and Moncler unveil a 1-of-20 G-Class "Past II Future" inspired by NIGO's custom-designed 250 GD, blending 90s streetwear aesthetics with luxury SUV engineering. Share
When automotive meets high fashion, it can yield captivating results — and the latest creation from Mercedes-Benz and Moncler is a striking example. The latest collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Moncler, overseen by Japanese streetwear icon Tomoaki Nagao (known as NIGO), takes this fusion to a new level. Designed as a tribute to the iconic G-Class, this 1-of-20 limited-edition SUV series draws inspiration from a bespoke ‘90s 250 GD cabriolet, designed by NIGO himself.
In recent years, collaborations like Virgil Abloh’s Project MAYBACH and Ronnie Fieg’s KITH Edition BMW M4 have set the stage for luxury crossovers between fashion and automotive. Now, with Mercedes, NIGO, the founder of HUMAN MADE and Bathing Ape, has brought his distinctive style to the G-Class. Through his work, the G-Class Past II Future melds Moncler’s high-end touch with Mercedes’ rugged elegance, creating a luxury SUV that doubles as an art piece.
It all started with NIGO’s custom take on a W461-generation 250 GD cabriolet. For this unique one-off, NIGO selected a 1990s-era G-Class, completely rebuilding it with distinctive touches that reflect his signature aesthetic. Cloaked in a grey finish with black trim and an olive green hood, grille, and front quarter panels, this cabriolet exudes a classic feel with rugged flair. Further detailing includes a unique rear-mounted jerry can and a bespoke spare tire cover that combines Moncler’s logo with Mercedes’ three-pointed star.
One of the collaboration’s most notable design elements is the cabriolet’s rear cover, created in the style of Moncler’s puffer jackets. The minimalist frame serves as a striking visual touch and also hosts a set of retro speaker boxes lined in the same checkered pattern used in the cabin. With this level of detail, the one-off cabriolet is a true homage to both the era and Moncler’s distinctive craftsmanship.
Inside, the G-Class cabriolet features black leather seats with checkered inserts, orange seatbelts, and embroidered headrests showcasing Mercedes and Moncler logos. The rear is lined in black wood, with inward-facing seats to match the front’s checkered upholstery. This cohesive interior completes the unique aesthetic while adding comfort and style. Each vehicle showcases a grey paint job with an olive green front end and black trim, echoing the cabriolet’s design. Other signature touches include a Moncler and Mercedes-branded spare tire cover and “Past II Future” lettering across the bumper.
Unlike most limited-edition G-Class models that focus on performance, Mercedes opted for practicality by offering the Past II Future G-Class in both the G 550 and G 450D variants. The G 550 is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid engine, delivering 443 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, while the G 450D features a 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine, with 362 horsepower and an impressive 553 lb-ft of torque. These options ensure that buyers can choose between a gasoline or diesel model based on their personal preference.
In addition to the SUV line-up, Mercedes, Moncler, and NIGO launched a complementary capsule collection of apparel. Inspired by ‘90s streetwear, this gender-neutral collection includes parkas, down jackets, Bermuda shorts, and checkered shirts in a palette of black, white, blue, and green, with bold orange accents. Select pieces are also printed with archival images from Mercedes and Moncler, blending past and present in the same way the SUVs do.
Reflecting on the project, NIGO shared his creative vision: “For me, the ‘90s were among the most influential decades from a cultural and creative standpoint. Electronic music and the hip-hop scene arose as a new expression of urban character. I wanted to integrate that vibe and energy into the design of the Project G-Class Past II Future by interpreting that legacy for a new contemporary era.”
With only 20 units produced, each G-Class Past II Future is a collector’s item, destined to be cherished by automotive and fashion aficionados alike. NIGO’s creative vision shines through in every detail, from the olive and grey colour scheme to the checkered interior and Moncler puffer-inspired cover.
