Despite the fact that SUV's are falling out of favor with many consumers, tuning firm Brabus has announced plans to introduce their new G V12 S Biturbo at next month's Geneva Motor Show.
Big changes lie under the hood as the new G V12 S Biturbo replaces the traditional V8 engines that normally reside in the G-Class with a version of Mercedes' V12 engine from the S600. The engine's displacement is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 384 cubic inches) and it is outfitted with a new crankshaft, larger cylinders, and reworked cylinder heads. Brabus also added larger turbochargers, a better intercooling system, and a specially designed high-performance stainless steel exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts.
The end result of all this work is an engine that produces 700 hp (690 bhp /515 kW) and an electronically limited 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft) of torque. Performance figures for this monster include a 0-100 km/h time of 4.3 seconds and a limited top speed of 240 km/h (150 mph). In comparison, the V8 powered G55 AMG produces 500 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque while the Mercedes S600 has 510 hp and 612 lb-ft of torque.
In order to cope with all that power, Brabus had to install a custom suspension, a high-performance braking system, and high-performance tires which are available in sizes from 20- to 22-inches.
The hefty €379,000 price tag includes an exclusive exterior that features a Brabus front apron with LED daytime running lights, a new rear bumper, and specially designed caps for the G-Class' standard running boards that offer integrated LED lights which can be activated via the key fob. Inside there's a new ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel, a 280-km/h (175 mph) speedometer, illuminated sill plates, and handcrafted Brabus Mastik leather. Upon customer request, the company can turn the G V12 S Biturbo into an office on wheels or the ultimate entertainment machine by equipping it with state-of-the-art communications technology, a DVD changer, TV tuner, game console and eight-inch LCD screens mounted to the back of the front headrests.
