Brabus hones Mercedes V-Class

Aftermarket Mercedes-Benz specialist Brabus is known for its sometimes spectacular styling/tuning work on various Benz models, from SLS AMG down, but it's not the sort of stuff you'd normally expect to see on a commercial van/MPV.

That's the case though with this latest programme on the V-Class (V 250) van that allows customers to opt for Brabus upgrades ranging from minimal to maxed-out.

Only just launched in Europe, the Brabus interpretation of the V-Class covers everything from aero add-ons to lowered sports suspension and turbo-diesel engine tweaks that lift power, torque and acceleration without affecting fuel consumption.

The aero element has been attended to with a range of options that can be applied selectively, or on a go-for-broke basis. Elements include aerodynamic lift-minimising attachments for the side air intakes, plus a spoiler that attaches beneath the bumper.

At the back, it's all finished off with a fairing for the rear bumper that provides outlets for the four-outlet, stainless steel Brabus exhaust system, as well as a central diffuser.

The power-up regime for the 2.1-litre turbo-diesel engine comes from a plug-and-play module that lifts power from the standard 140kW to 173kW and ups torque from 440Nm to 510Nm. Brabus claims zero to 100km/h comes up in a quick-for-a-van 8.8 seconds.

The suspension work focuses on the springs: Lowering the ride height by around 15mm to 25mm depending on model (only one version of the V-Class is sold in Australia) and calibrated to match the standard shocks it is claimed to retain the ride quality of the standard system.

Wheel choices include two diameters (18 and 19 inches) and four different designs, and the largest wheels are shod in 225/45ZR19 tyres from Continental, Pirelli or Yokohama.

Inside, Brabus opens up a new world for V-Class customers with the application of custom leather-Alcantara and wood or (genuine) carbon-fibre trim.

There's also plenty of Brabus special touches including aluminium door-lock pins and pedal pads as well as scuff plates with a backlit Brabus logo that alternates between red and white.

Cabin entertainment can include two 15.6-inch LCD screens displaying TV, a Blu-Ray player or DVBT receiver, via Sennheiser wireless headphones.  Internet via WLAN router and 4G connectivity via a smartphone or tablet are also available.

Also on the list are touch pads integrated into the C-pillars that can be used to open and close the power curtains, operate the sliding door or control the screens, reading lamps and seat heating.

Brabus already offers enhancements for a wide range of Benz products in Australia including everything from the A-Class right through to S-Class models, including a plug-in hybrid.

While various Brabus enhancements – including engine power upgrades, wheels and aero aids – are fitted locally by Brabus distributors, the more complex tasks such as interior fit-outs are handled by the factory before the vehicle is shipped to Australia.