2007 Brabus Widestar ML 63 review

Brabus Widestar ML 63 review:

Sporty and dynamic, exclusive and powerful: These three attributes best describe the BRABUS WIDESTAR. The special model based on the Mercedes ML 63 celebrates its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2007. With the WIDESTAR BRABUS presents not only a new and exciting wide-track version of the SUV but also the new Monoblock E 23-inch forged wheels and BRABUS B63 S performance tuning for the ML 63 with 550 hp / 404.8 kW.

The WIDESTAR concept, which is of course also available for all current M-Class models, combines dynamic looks with maximum functionality. The elegantly flowing lines of the fender flares front and back increase vehicle width by four centimeters. The extra centimeters benefit the car's appearance while the wider track improves handling: The multi- piece BRABUS Monoblock E wheels in size 11Jx23 were custom-tailored for the wide-track version of the M-Class. Their forged wheel center ensures an optimal symbiosis of light- weight design and maximum strength. The new light-alloy wheels are mounted with high- performance tires in size 315/25 R 23.

The BRABUS control module for the standard AIRMATIC air suspension lowers the ride height of the vehicle by some 30 millimeters, further contributing to more sporty road- handling characteristics.

The BRABUS WIDESTAR body conversion consists of add-on parts for the doors, and rocker panels that create a more homogenous transition between the fender flares. But that's not all: Complete front and rear fascias replace their production counterparts front and back. The front spoiler bumper with three striking air inlets and four integrated auxiliary headlights lends the M-Class more passing clout and minimizes lift on the front axle. In combination with the rear spoiler the rear fascia with integrated diffuser and cutouts for the four chrome tailpipes of the BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust system provides the perfect aerodynamic balance.

Its well balanced aerodynamic properties make the BRABUS WIDESTAR a perfectly suited to serve as the platform for a tuned version of the ML 63. The latter was developed by the BRABUS motor engineers in form of the B63 S performance kit. The production V8 engine delivers 510 hp / 375 kW. It is fitted with sport air filters and high-performance metal catalysts as well as newly programmed engine electronics with custom mapping for ignition and injection. Together these measures result in an increase in power output by 40 hp / 31 kW to 550 hp / 404.8 kW. Simultaneously peak torque grows from 630 Nm to 650 Nm.

Vehicle performance benefits accordingly: The sprint from rest to 100 km/h is shortened to 4.9 seconds. The engine tuning and installation of the BRABUS V/max unit increase the top speed from 250 km/h to 275 km/h.

To further optimize active safety the BRABUS WIDESTAR can be equipped with a high-performance brake system. It features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and cross-drilled 380 x 36 millimeter discs on the front axle. Together with 355 x 28-mm brake discs and 6-piston fixed calipers in the rear it provides the impressive stopping power usually reserved for purebred sports cars.

Yet another BRABUS specialty for the Mercedes M-Class is the creation of exclusive interior options: Stainless-steel door sills with illuminated BRABUS logo, an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel and leather-covered door trim pieces to upgrade the factory leather are all part of the program as are exclusive BRABUS fully leather interiors made from meticulously crafted combinations of the finest Mastik leather and Alcantara.

The production front seats are equipped with special rear consoles that reach all the way to the headrests. They house seven-inch 16:9 LCD screens with integrated DVD player. Also available is a version with an electric folding table made from precious wood.