Brabus powers up Mercedes-Benz X-Class

German tuning house Brabus has gone and done what Mercedes-Benz won’t, developing  a higher output ‘performance’ version of the X-Class ute.

While Benz’s AMG division has vehemently opposed talk of a souped-up pick-up, Brabus has waved its magic wand over the Navara-based dual cab, revealing the fettled creation overnight.

The changes aren’t seismic, but they do lend the X-Class some added zeal (and predictably, tinsel).

Called the D4 PowerXtra performance upgrade, the Brabus transformation starts with a bog stock X250d, and adds larger 20-inch wheels, dual overhead LED light bars, a chunkier front number plate mount and quad exhaust outlets. And badging, lots of Brabus badging.

There are light cosmetic changes inside, too, extending to any shade or style of leather finish, branded stainless steel scuff plates and aluminium pedals.

Under the bonnet, Brabus has tinkered with the X-Class’ 2.3-litre twin-turbo diesel four-cylinder, extracting a further 15kW and 60Nm courtesy of an ECU upgrade.

It takes the oiler’s total output to 155kW at 3500rpm and 510Nm between 1500rpm and 2500rpm, bringing a 0-100km/h time of 11.5 seconds (0.3 seconds faster than standard).

The handy work is being treated as an entrée by Brabus, which says it is working on a more significant performance upgrade for the V6-powered X-Class. Given the donor model boasts 190kW and 550Nm as standard, big figures are anticipated.

“A Brabus performance upgrade for the soon to be launched X 350d top-of-the-range model is already in the development phase,” the tuner said.

Brabus hasn’t disclosed pricing for its X250d project, but has indicated the package will be available through its Australian dealer network.