Brabus tweaks the new SLK

Tuner Brabus has announced its programme for the new R172 generation Mercedes-Benz SLK.

Changes under the bonnet focus on adding auxiliary control units to the two four-cylinder turbocharged engines. Using plug-and-play Eco PowerXtra CGI modules, which can be installed in under an hour, power from the SLK 200 is lifted to 207 bhp (154 kW / 210 PS), while the SLK 250 boasts an enhanced 222 bhp (169 kW / 226 PS).

The SLK 250 can additionally benefit from the fitment of a sport wastegate valve and larger intercooler. Combined, these raise outputs to 232 bhp (176 kW / 236 PS) and 370 Nm (272 lb/ft) of torque when in overboost mode, and allow for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 154 mph (248 km/h). To put those figures into perspective, the standard car achieves an acceleration time of 6.6 seconds and goes onto a maximum of 151 mph (243 km/h).

Mercedes-Benz SLK (Brabus) (2011) Front SideMercedes-Benz SLK (Brabus) (2011) Interior

Mercedes-Benz SLK (Brabus) (2011) Rear SideMercedes-Benz SLK (Brabus) (2011) Side

To help the roadster cope with the extra performance, Brabus has also paid attention to the chassis. Sports springs can be specified, which incidentally lower the ride height by 30 mm. They have been specially calibrated to work with the larger cross-section tyres that come with the Brabus Monoblock wheels, available in diameters ranging from 17” to 20”. Customers can also choose from a variety of brake upgrades.

Naturally, there’s a body kit on offer as well. All too often these can end up looking like an amateurish mess, but Brabus seems to have mastered the art of developing embellishments that improve rather than detract from the looks of the original car. That’s probably because a fairly subtle approach is usually taken, which is certainly the case with the SLK. The aerodynamic add-ons comprise a pair of lift-reducing front spoiler lips, side sill extensions, a rear diffuser and a boot lid spoiler.

The conversion can be finished off with numerous changes to the interior, including leather or Alcantara upholstery, aluminium pedals and stainless steel scuff plates.

Related posts:
Brabus E V12 Cabriolet
Brabus S 350 BlueTEC

Comments

  1. James Hind7 August 2011 at 18:09:00 BST

    Brabus is one of the few tuning houses that actually manage to not ruin the looks of the cars. Not a huge effort gone into the performance though this time!

    ReplyDelete

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