It’s only been three days since Mercedes-Benz began European deliveries of its spanking-new CLS Shooting Brake (on October 6, 2012), yet Brabus has already announced the launch of its first aftermarket enhancements for the stylish estate model.
The initial program includes a variety of cosmetic and performance upgrades for both the standard models and the flagship AMG variant.
Beginning with the four-cylinder, diesel-powered CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, the ECO PowerXtra D4 performance kit bumps output from 201hp (204PS) to 232hp (235PS) and peak torque to 560 Nm (446 lb-ft).
For the V6 diesel-powered CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, the ECO PowerXtra D6S tuning kit offers two stages selected through the transmission program of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic gearbox.
In Eco mode, only peak torque is increased, from standard 620Nm to 690Nm (509 lb-ft) between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm, while once Sport mode is selected, the increase in peak torque is accompanied by a boost in output from 261hp (265PS) to 308hp (313PS) allowing for a 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint time of 5.9 seconds.
Moving on to the 4.7-liter V8 gasoline-powered CLS 500, the B50 power package lifts output from 402hp (408PS) to 493hp (500PS) and peak torque to 720 Nm (531 lb-ft). Together with the removal of the speed limiter, the V8 wagon can hit a top speed of 300km/h (186mph).
Naturally, Brabus also offers a tune for the CLS 63 AMG model. Thanks to the new ECU and an additional water-to-air intercooler powered by an auxiliary electric pump, the 5.5-liter bi-turbocharged V8 delivers 610hp (619PS), up from 518hp (525PS), while peak torque is boosted to 1.000Nm (737 lb-ft). With this package, the AMG model can sprint from rest to 100 km/h (62mph) in 4.2 seconds and max out at 320 km/h (200 mph).
Brabus’ performance offerings also include a special sport exhaust system with a butterfly valve for the CLS 63 that allows the driver to switch between a discrete “Coming Home” mode and a “Sport” mode for a throatier exhaust note.
For all other models, the German tuner offers stainless-steel quad sport exhaust systems, a clutch-type limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent, and sport springs plus an electronic module that lowers the ride height of cars equipped with the semi-active AIRMATIC air suspension system by about 35mm (1.37 inches).
The regular models can be fitted with an aero package comprising a front spoiler, front fascia attachments with integrated LED daytime running lights, sport fenders and side skirts with integrated entrance lights.
For the AMG sport package-equipped versions, Brabus has developed a front spoiler lip that attaches to the underside of the front fascia, while for the CLS 63 AMG, there’s a front apron and fender attachments with backlit ‘BRABUS’ logo.
Alloy wheel options includes rims in sizes ranging from 8.5Jx17 to 10.5Jx20, the latter fitted with tires 255/30 ZR 20 in front and 295/25 ZR 20 at the rear axle.
Finally, there’s a variety of interior goodies including bespoke upholsteries, scuff plates with backlit ‘BRABUS’ logo, different speedometers, and aluminum trims.
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