What's all this about?

Swiss company, FAB Design, has built this, the Shahin - which is a name for a royal, white hawk. It is based on the W463 G 55 and G 63 models from Mercedes-Benz.

How has FAB Design changed things?

Well, you must have noticed the slightly smoother-looking lower body of this G-Class, which is clad in composite materials including pre-preg carbon fibre (i.e. carbon fibre with catalysed resin pre-impregnated during manufacture). As well as the front and rear spoilers and side skirts coming in this material, the engine cover of the Shahin has been redesigned in it too.

Anything else on the outside?

The wheelarches are extended and crammed with forged monobloc 'Evotrek' wheels that are a mere 23 inches in diameter, running on 305/55 rubber.

Presumably, the interior is an explosion of bad taste upgrades?

That's a bit harsh. The FAB Design Shahin has a leather, Alcantara and carbon fibre mix inside, while at the back the spare wheel has been replaced with a tyre foam kit to get you home in the event of a puncture. This compartment has a cover on it, which is highlighted with an illuminated hawk.

You're really not convincing me I was wrong about the cabin. So what about power?

Both the G 55 and G 63 engines are 'optimised' by FAB Design, which presumably means reprogrammed software and mild upgrades to some of the ancillaries. Either way, power and torque figures are impressive - the G 55-based Shahin makes 530hp and 775Nm, while the 5.5-litre, twin-turbo V8 of the G 63 is taken to 620hp and 820Nm; some way up on the standard figures of 544hp and 760Nm.

Where can I find out more?

Mosey on over to www.fab-design.com if you're interested in a royal hawk of your own - or check it out at the Geneva Motor Show.

John Lambert - 28 Feb 2015