Beijing 81 2.0 Debut: Echoes of G-Class with a Bold New Look

Yesterday in China, the Beijing Off-Road brand unveiled the highly anticipated Beijing 81 2.0 SUV. According to the manufacturer, the production model will be available in two versions – Regular Edition and Professional Edition. The public presentation is scheduled at the Beijing Auto Show in April 2026, which will also mark the start of pre-orders, while the full market launch is planned for August 1, 2026.

Image: Autohome

The company refers to the Beijing 81 2.0 as a “tactical box” due to its rugged “square” shapes. However, from the photos, it’s clear where the designers drew their inspiration: the Beijing 81 2.0 seems to be modeled after the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

Image: Autohome

Compared to version 1.0, the vehicle features a less prominent hood while retaining a grille with five vertical slots, each equipped with red LED lighting. The headlights are designed with a “circle in a square” concept: square housings combined with round light elements, incorporating five curved LEDs and five turn signal segments inside.

Image: Beijing Off-Road

Image: Beijing Off-Road

Design Inspirations and Future Competitors

With its striking resemblance to the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the Beijing 81 2.0 represents a bold entry into the SUV market, which has seen a trend towards revamping classic designs with modern touches. Mercedes recently released the new G-Class 2025 edition, showcasing advanced off-road capabilities and luxury interior enhancements, setting a high standard for luxury SUVs. Meanwhile, the upcoming Beijing Auto Show is expected to feature innovative entries from across the globe, promising fierce competition.

Interior and Powertrain Details Await

Currently, details about the interior and powertrains remain undisclosed. The manufacturer promises to share insights closer to the start of pre-sale displays. Speculation suggests a focus on integrating cutting-edge technology and luxury features to align with market leaders like Mercedes-Benz, expecting a captivating blend of comfort and performance.