New Mercedes G-Class deliveries have started in some European and American markets, just in time for early customers to start tearing their new SUV apart with help from German-based tuning house Brabus.
The Mercedes specialists have just launched a 'refinement program' for the latest evolution of the off-road 4x4, boasting exclusive Brabus design parts, bigger wheels and, of course, more power for the Mercedes-Benz G 500.
Like Brabus' take on the X-Class ute, the G 500 package features the company's PowerXtra performance upgrade, boosting the four-litre twin-turbo V8's output by 58kW and 100Nm of torque.
Read more: Mercedes-AMG G-Class preview
In standard Mercedes trim, the engine produces 310kW and 610Nm. But thanks to the Brabus performance kit - a plug-and-play control module replacement - the new Brabus-tuned G 500 performance is increased to 368kW (500 hp) at 5,600 rpm and peak torque of 710Nm constantly between 2,250 and 4,250 rpm.
The increase in oomph is thanks to increased boost pressure and new mapping for injection and ignition, with the new tune tested in the lab and on- and off-road. The Brabus G 500 sprints from rest to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds (0.2 faster than stock) and the top speed remains electronically limited to 210 km/h.
The engine note is also upgraded with a specially developed stainless sport exhaust system with two chrome tailpipes exiting on each side of the SUV. Brabus say the new pipes offers an optimal mix of sound, performance and longevity. There's also a “Coming Home” mode that closes active flaps in the exhaust, keeping your neighbours happy if you're an early riser.
In the body department, Brabus fit a new front fascia attachment to give the production bumper a more striking profile and reduce front-axle lift at high speeds. The facelift also includes a new tailor-made radiator grille that lights up in blue when the driver unlocks the car.
The new G-Class also features auxiliary headlamps above the windshield. This naked-carbon module on the roof, available with a high-gloss or matte surface finish, is fitted with two powerful lights that act as flashers or, using the high beams, two sets of high-performance LEDs each for off-roading at night.
At the back, a roof-mounted wing ( or 'airfoil' as Brabus calls it) ensures this G-Class will never be mistaken for a stock model.
A hood scoop made from carbon fibers is also added, which not only lends the G-Class an even more characteristic profile, but also optimises the exchange of cool and hot air in the engine bay. And tailor-made Monoblock wheels in various designs and sizes - 20 to 23 inch - complete the G-Class' external transformation.
Inside, you can have the G-Class seats and interior finished in any fabric or colour you like thanks the the company's in-house upholstery shop, although they'd prefer you pick from the finest Mastik leather and Alcantara.
Exclusive accessories such as aluminum pedals and scuff plates with backlit logo for the passenger cabin and the trunk can also be specified, along with a range of precious-wood components and carbon-fiber trim pieces.
Like all Brabus packages, the new performance upgrade comes with the three-year or 100,000-km tuning Warranty.
If that's not enough to quench your thirst, we expect to see a package released for the top-spec Mercedes-AMG G63 soon too.
