Top dog tuner of all things Daimler, BRABUS has revealed its exclusive tuning program for the second generation Mercedes CLS-Class. Making its world debut in Geneva next week, the four-door coupe is outfitted modestly for a sporty-elegant flavor. The wind tunnel tested kit features a front spoiler mounted to the OE front bumper, restyled air vent inserts with fitted LED daytime running, sport fenders with side gills, side skirts, rear spoiler and a custom fitted lower rear bumper apron to accommodate the four tailpipes of the BRABUS sport exhaust system. The rear appearance is rounded out with a centrally mounted reflector.
Suspension tuning is available is seveal levels from a simple ride-height lowering by some 30 millimeters via sport springs or a complete suspension upgrade with adjustable dampers all around. CLS models equipped with the semi-active AIRMATIC air suspension system can be lowered by some 35 millimeters (1.4 in.) with the BRABUS suspension module. BRABUS Monoblock wheels in sizes ranging from 8.5Jx17 to 10.5Jx20 are available as one-piece and three piece wheels in six different designs.
Performance tuning also remains somewhat sedated in these early stages. The CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model equipped with BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D4 performance kit delivers an additional 31 PS (31 bhp / 22.8 kW) and peak torque of 560 Nm (413 lb-ft). For the CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY BRABUS offers the ECO PowerXtra D6S plug-and-play auxiliary control unit which can be installed in less than 45 minutes. In 'Eco' mode only peak torque is increased from 620 Nm to 690 Nm (457 to 509 lb-ft) between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm. Maximum power output remains unchanged. In 'Sport' mode both peak torque and power output are increased. Maximum power output jumps from 265 PS (261 bhp / 195 kW) to 313 PS (309 bhp / 230 kW) at a low 3,600 rpm. Using this setting, the tuned turbodiesel model sprints from 0 – 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds. Top speed is limited electronically to 250 km/h (155 mph).