Brabus has introduced their new tuning program for the Mercedes GL-Class at the Essen Motor Show. Starting with the exterior, the model can be equipped with an air
suspension module (which lowers the ride height by up to 30mm) and
variety of wheels ranging in sizes from 18- to 23-inches. Customers can
also order a stainless-steel sports exhaust system and high-performance
brakes. While the exterior accessories are limited at the moment, Brabus
offers a multitude of interior options. Choices include Mastik leather
and Alcantara upholstery as well as exotic wood and carbon fiber trim.
There's also illuminated door sill plates and a speedometer that tops
out at 320 km/h (200 mph). Under the hood, the GL 350 BlueTEC can be equipped with the ECO
PowerXtra D6S performance kit which enables the engine to develop 310 HP
(228 kW) and 690 Nm (509 lb-ft) of torque. Thanks to the extra oomph,
the crossover runs from 0–100 km/h in 7.6 seconds and can hit a top
speed of 225 km/h (140 mph). Likewise, the GL 500 can be outfitted with the B50-520 performance
kit that allows the 4.7-liter V8 to churn out 521 HP (383 kW) and 800 Nm
(590 lb-ft) of torque. This enables the luxury barge to accelerate from
0-100 km/h in 5.0 seconds and hit a top speed of 275 km/h (171 mph)
with the optional Vmax unit.