You're looking at the Brabus SLS AMG; it's still in development but unveiled here for the first time. It was an inevitability, but like a Z-lister's sex tape, that doesn't stop it being exciting.
There's no word on performance yet because Brabus says it's still working on tuning the engine, but it has revealed a new exhaust system, custom active suspension, some aerodynamic addenda and a bespoke interior.
Amusingly, Brabus claims the new exhaust 'appeals especially to the neighbours' because it has a 'coming home' setting that's quieter than the standard SLS setup. Brabus suggests it might be useful when you're getting home late at night.
Thankfully the lightweight, titanium-tipped system also has a bypass button that opens the gateway to sonic carnage. (Maybe you don't like your neighbours. Or maybe, as you can afford a Brabus SLS, you live in a gated mansion, acres from anyone else.)
All the aero add-ons are carbon fibre. They include side vents incorporating backlit blue Brabus lettering, a rear spoiler and diffuser, and an entirely new front bumper arrangement.
That bumper is wind tunnel optimised to reduce lift at the front axle for better high-speed stability.
The suspension is new too, switchable between comfort and sport modes whose characteristics are at either side of the standard SLS; the Brabus is more supple in comfort mode, yet more aggressive in sport. The front can also be lifted by 40mm to avoid speed bump catastrophes.
The interior is a more custom affair, tailored to the specific tastes of the individual customer, but usually swathed in Alcantara, leather and contrasting embroidery. In the case of the press shots it's a tantalising (and surprisingly tasteful) combo of black and red.
No word on prices yet, nor when the tweaks to the 6.2-litre 563bhp V8 will be complete. We're hoping to see the beast for ourselves at the
Paris Motor Show.
Click here for our First Drive in the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.
Mark Nichol - 26 Aug 2010