The Mercedes-AMG twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 that powers the latest G63 has provided the retro-styled SUV with such strong pace that it can outsprint the old, atmospheric V8 model to 62mph by almost a second. For some, however, that just isn't enough, which is why Brabus has launched a new version that takes things up a notch. Or 115.
Meet the new Brabus 700 Widestar, which produces 700hp and 701lb ft of torque, gains of 115hp and 71lb ft respectively to give this steroidal G63 enough grunt to charge to 62mph in 4.3sec. That's two-tenths quicker than that standard G63 and, in case you were wondering, two-tenths better than a Range Rover Sport SVR.
The improvements come thanks to the fitment of piggyback ECU system - the same one that's used with Brabus's versions of the AMG E63 and S63 - to provide the 'hot-V' eight-cylinder with new mapping for injection and ignition, along with a "modest" increase in boost pressure. This ensures peak power comes at 6,300rpm while maximum torque is available from 2,500 to 3,500rpm, which helps to explain why shifting 2,555kg of G63 is of so little challenge.
Brabus hasn't touched the rest of the car's powertrain, so it retains a 9G-Tronic transmission - a very quick shifter in standard tune - with three fully locking differentials and a low range gearbox. The chassis, complete with adaptive damping, is also unchanged, which is no bad thing given how impressively this blocky 4x4 can tackle a winding road. Not something you could always say about the old G-Class...
The 700 Widestar does, however, get minor cosmetic changes to signal its uprated performance. It features new front and rear bumpers, although this being Brabus, the changes aren't too silly and do little to reduce the effect of the car's classic design. Alright, so there are 23-inch forged wheels and two-tone leather, but expect more outlandish G63s to follow in time.
The car has been revealed to the public - well, the wealthy - at the Monaco Yacht Show, which is taking place this week. Orders are being taken now for a yet to be disclosed figure. Expect a handsome increase on the standard G63's £143,305 opening price.
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