Mercedes-Benz, Moncler, and Nigo Team Up for Exclusive G-Wagon Collaboration

Mercedes-Benz has teamed up with iconic après-ski brand Moncler and fashion designer, music producer, and creative director Nigo for an extraordinary collaboration—unveiling the “Project G-Class Past II Future” G-Wagon at the “City of Genius” show in Shanghai. This special edition G-Wagon, a nod to the 1990s, combines the rugged luxury of Mercedes-Benz with the stylish, street-savvy energy of Moncler and Nigo’s unique design vision.

The collaboration is a celebration of both fashion and automotive craftsmanship, blending Mercedes-Benz’s iconic G-Class with Moncler’s signature puffer jacket style and Nigo’s cultural influence. This limited-edition vehicle is not just a car; it’s an automotive art piece, meticulously restored and reworked for a new generation of collectors and fashion enthusiasts.

The Revival of a 1990s Icon

The “Project G-Class Past II Future” is based on a G-Class model from the 1990s, fully restored and upgraded to reflect contemporary style. The aim was to breathe new life into the original design while maintaining the essence of the classic G-Wagon. Nigo, who is no stranger to collaborations—having previously worked with Nike on the Air Force III—was tasked with reimagining both the vehicle's exterior and interior, infusing it with the energy of the '90s while ensuring it felt fresh and modern.

The design draws heavily from the cultural influences of the '90s, an era that saw a revolution in both music and fashion. For Nigo, this period was deeply formative, with the rise of electronic music and hip-hop shaping the sound and aesthetic of the time. "For me, the ’90s were among the most influential decades from a cultural and creative standpoint," said Nigo in a statement. “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.”

The car’s exterior and interior features pay homage to this dynamic period while introducing new design elements that elevate the G-Wagon’s already iconic status. This is a vehicle that isn’t just for driving—it’s a statement piece for car collectors and streetwear aficionados alike.

A Stylish and Luxe Design

The G-Wagon’s exterior has been reworked with a bold yet minimalist color palette that captures the spirit of the '90s. The SUV sports a two-tone finish in olive green and grey, two colors that complement the vehicle’s rugged exterior. The matte finish is offset by black and gold accents, adding a touch of luxury and refinement. Exterior design elements include a signature spare wheel mounted on the rear tailgate, which has become a defining feature of the G-Class over the years. The vehicle also features black steel wheels with a '90s-inspired design, a foldable windscreen for added practicality, and a striking gold-colored fuel can that enhances the retro feel.

But the design details don't stop there. The black exterior accents extend to the window frames, light metal alloy wheels, and the iconic bumper guard that spans the full length of the vehicle. This guard is emblazoned with “Past II Future” lettering, highlighting the unique nature of this limited-edition release. It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia and modernity—a reimagined classic that celebrates the G-Class’s legacy while pushing it into the future.

The Interior: A Nod to Vintage Luxury

Inside, the G-Wagon receives equally thoughtful treatment, blending classic elements with contemporary upgrades. The interior is designed by G-Class enthusiast Devon Turnbull, renowned for his immersive audio installations. Turnbull has added a surprising and unique feature to the vehicle: removable “boom boxes” mounted on the convertible top linkage. This playful yet functional element adds a layer of fun while enhancing the car’s appeal to modern music lovers.

The seat upholstery in the G-Class is inspired by earlier models, with a checkered design that harkens back to the ’80s and ’90s aesthetic. Accents in orange and gold bring a pop of color to the otherwise minimalistic interior, providing a sense of vibrancy and youthfulness. The center console features a “1 of 20” limited series number, marking this vehicle as part of a highly exclusive run. Just 20 of these special edition G-Wagons will be available for purchase, making them a rare and highly sought-after item for collectors around the world.

A Limited-Edition Collaboration

The G-Class is celebrating its 45th anniversary, and this limited edition is a perfect tribute to the vehicle’s enduring legacy. It is based on the G 450 and G 550 models, and the collaboration with Moncler and Nigo brings a fresh twist on the timeless design that has made the G-Class a global icon. Bettina Fetzer, Vice President of Communications & Marketing at Mercedes-Benz, commented, “The Mercedes-Benz G-Class Past II Future is a very special new twist on our icon. This limited edition is a fresh take on ’90s style and the character that’s made the G-Class a timeless favorite.”

This special-edition G-Wagon, with its 1990s-inspired design and luxurious touches, will be available globally in April 2025. Only 20 units will be released, making this a rare opportunity for those fortunate enough to own one of these automotive masterpieces.

Fashion Meets Automotives

The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz, Moncler, and Nigo is not limited to the G-Wagon itself. Alongside the car, a matching Moncler capsule collection will be launched, bringing the same stylish vibe to a range of fashion pieces. This clothing line will carry the same street-smart, luxury-infused aesthetic, appealing to both fashion enthusiasts and G-Wagon collectors alike.

The Shanghai “City of Genius” event also featured a range of other exciting collaborations from Moncler, including collections by A$AP Rocky, Willow Smith, Edward Enninful, and Hiroshi Fujiwara’s FRGMT, among others. There were special showcases by designers like Rick Owens and Jil Sander, making the event an unforgettable celebration of fashion and creativity.

With just 20 vehicles to be released, the “Project G-Class Past II Future” G-Wagon is poised to become one of the most coveted collector’s items in automotive history. A perfect blend of luxury, nostalgia, and cutting-edge design, it’s more than just a car; it’s a cultural statement.