by Tuning studio Venuum unveils open-top SUV Mastodon V4 based on the G-Class
Mercedes-Benz is working on a new G-Class cabriolet, but Middle Eastern tuning studio Venuum has already beaten the German manufacturer to it. Their creation is the limited edition Mastodon V4.
Although we’ve seen plenty of unusual G-Class projects in recent years, including open-top versions from Mansory, they usually retain some iconic features of the model, such as round headlights. In the case of the Mastodon V4, it’s different: Venuum has replaced almost all exterior panels, leaving only the door panels to create their ideal open-top SUV.
Radical exterior changes
The front of the vehicle looks particularly striking. It features a completely new bumper with plenty of exposed carbon fiber, contrasting with the square design that made the G-Class famous. A different grille, square headlights, and custom hood are also installed.
The side panels of this Mercedes G-Class are also far from standard. The car gets massive wheel rims, carbon fiber wheel arch extensions, and side steps. In the images, the SUV’s wheelbase appears shorter than standard, though it’s hard to tell if this is an optical illusion, as the car retains four doors.
Open roof and interior
The most noticeable change is at the rear, where the roof has been completely cut off. Presumably, the black fabric at the back can be stretched over the rear seats to protect them from bad weather, though no photos with the top raised are available.
Changes have also affected the interior. The front and rear seats are upholstered in a combination of yellow and black leather. A unique center console, made of carbon fiber of course, appears between the rear seats.
Venuum has not disclosed exactly how many Mastodon V4 units it plans to produce, only confirming it will be a “limited series.” The price has also not been announced yet.
This project shows how a Middle Eastern tuning studio interprets the classic SUV, betting on a maximally aggressive and exclusive exterior appearance. The abandonment of traditional round headlights and other signature G-Class elements makes the Mastodon V4 truly unique, though it raises questions about model recognition. While an official cabriolet from Mercedes is still in development, such independent projects fill a niche for those who want an open-top G-Class right now, without waiting for the factory version.
