4/17/2025 — Back in October, an upcoming Mattel Creations collab showed up on my doorstep. This was different though. Instead if it being the final rendition of a diecast vehicle that was to be sold on Mattel Creations, it was a 3D-printed prototype that was hand-painted by the model shop team in El Segundo. You can watch my unboxing — and subsequent intrigue — in the video I filmed below.

Shop for the Hot Wheels X Moncler X Nigo: Mercedes-Benz Project G-Class Past II Future NOW!

For the next 6 months, I wondered if this ended up being a collab that didn’t get turned into a release — those happen. The reveal of the real vehicle seemed to come and go. However, here we are, as the hype once again builds for this new release. Here is what I know.

Yes, this is a new casting. The #Mercedes-Benz Project G-Class Past II Future is not to be confused with the #’91 Mercedes-Benz G-Class which has a similar silhouette. This casting was designed to also have a removeable top that reveals a replica custom sound system and Moncler interior. Per the official Mattel Creations shop listing:

The Mercedes‑Benz “Project G-Class Past II Future” blends ’90s German auto design with Moncler’s Italian luxury style. Originally a one-off art piece by fashion designer, music producer, and creative director NIGO, the collab has been immortalized as a Hot Wheels collectible. Its two-tone exterior design catches the eye with golden accents and the quilted puffer-jacket pattern of its removable canopy. The interior features a recreation of Moncler’s signature tartan upholstery. 

I can already hear some collectors not understanding the hype for something in the realm of streetwear. And hey, I get it, you are validated for not understanding. With that said, these #Collaborations extend beyond the realm of Hot Wheels collecting — and I’m not talking about other brands. These collabs bring Hot Wheels in front of a whole new realm of collectors who adore automobile artwork such as this fabulous vehicle design by Nigo — and immortalized in diecast form by the team at Mattel Creations.

Here are the first shots of the packaging….

The #Mercedes-Benz Project G-Class Past II Future comes in an acrylic display case with a Moncler Tartan patterned plinth. The back of the acrylic case reads, “THE FUTURE IS DRIVEN BY THE PAST”. And, it typical collab-fashion, the outer-packaging ties into the brand as the acrylic case sits on a quilted puffer-jacket patterned rigid box. This is Hot Wheels artwork through and through. This collab will be sold tomorrow, April 18th, 2025, and will retail for $80 USD. Best of luck if you’re interested in adding this piece to your collection. I will be looking to add this one to the 3D-printed prototype I already have proudly in my collection.

Shop for the Hot Wheels X Moncler X Nigo: Mercedes-Benz Project G-Class Past II Future NOW!