The Mercedes-Benz GLS sits near the top of the automaker’s portfolio. Big, powerful and luxurious – all the ingredients needed for a modern Mercedes. AMG offered its options to the monster, putting a ton of horsepower under the hood, but it just isn’t enough for some.
Aftermarket specialist Brabus offers the GLS with its own enhancements, adding more power to the AMG-tuned SUV. A new video from AutoTopNL puts all that extra power on full display by blasting it down the German Autobahn at over 124 miles per hour (200 kilometers per hour).
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The twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 produces 612 horsepower (456 kilowatts) and 626 pound-feet (850 Newton-meters) of torque in its standard configuration. However, with the Brabus upgrade, the Mercedes engine produced 800 hp (596 kW) and 737 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque. The SUV received an upgraded turbocharger, a high-performance exhaust with actively controlled valves, tone and other goodies to increase its power.
All that extra power translates into better real-world performance. The SUV can reach 62 mph (100 kph) in 3.8 seconds instead of 4.2. The SUV’s top speed has also increased from 155 mph (250 kph) to 173 (280 kph). Brabus electronically limits it. Video shows the SUV hitting 162 mph (261 kph) in fifth gear even though the gearbox is a nine-speed automatic.
It’s not visible in the video, but Brabus spruced up the GLS’ exterior, giving the SUV unique 24-inch wheels and lowered suspension. Aftermarket specialists also added a new front spoiler, rear diffuser and badging. The cabin has a leather interior from Brabus, carbon shift pedals, upgraded trim, aluminum pedals and more.
The big, beastly SUV sounds amazing in the video above, the beefed-up exhaust makes it sound when the shift breaks, and the GLS accelerates on the German Autobahn. Brabus’ upgrades show that AMG’s already fast and powerful SUV hides even more capability beneath the SUV’s smooth sheet metal. The AMG GLS was already a monster, and Brabus turned it into one.
