SPY PICS: Mercedes-Benz develops mini G-Wagen

Mercedes-Benz is months away from the global reveal of its all-new GLB-Class SUV – and as with seemingly every new Benz model there'll be at least one, if not two, AMG models on offer.

The vehicle revealed by these pics taken in Spain is believed to be the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35, but there's said to be a GLB 45 version in the works as well.

While the standard GLB will launch globally next year, we'll have to wait until 2020 for the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35, and the GLB 45 will be later still.

As the name indicates, the Mercedes-Benz GLB will sit between the small GLA crossover and mid-size GLC SUV, with footprint and powertrains -- and off-road orientation -- set to place it directly in conflict with the Jeep Renegade.

There are already whispers that this vehicle will incorporate some of the design traits of the venerable G-Class and the Ener-G-Force design study first seen in Los Angeles six years ago.

But the Ener-G-Force was built on the standard G-Wagen chassis as a taste of Benz SUVs to come. The Mercedes-Benz GLB, powered by four-cylinder AMG engines for the flagship models, will be significantly smaller than the ancient G-Class. Engines will be turned sideways and entry-level models will only drive through the front wheels.

Despite the rumours, we don't picture this being a hard-core off-roader in the same league as a Suzuki Jimny, but we're keeping an open mind until Mercedes-Benz reveals more info.