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Brabus 900 Rocket Edition is the world’s fastest street-legal SUV

Or so the German tuner says

Not exactly the prettiest thing around, but at least it's fast. PHOTO FROM BRABUS

Brabus has been coming up with unbelievable ways to transform conventional Mercedes-Benz models into special souped-up versions. Some of the German automaker’s cars have been turned into wheeled rocket ships. Well, another one has just been given the tuner’s signature treatment, and it’s called the 900 Rocket Edition.

The coupe body makes the 900 Rocket Edition sleek. PHOTOS FROM BRABUS

This was launched at the Monaco Yacht Show, and Brabus claims that the 900 Rocket Edition is the world’s fastest street-legal SUV to date. Basically, the German tuning company used an already quick Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S 4Matic+ Coupe as a base vehicle. It was then given a carbon-fiber kit consisting of a chin spoiler and air intakes in the bumper—the latter sporting a lighted Rocket logo.

The displacement of the twin-turbo V8 was increased to 4.4 liters. PHOTOS FROM BRABUS

Signature stripes adorn the front grille. Wheel-arch extensions are ditched for fender flares made of carbon fiber. Sitting below them are 21-, 22-, 23- or 24-inch Brabus Monoblock Y or Z Platinum Edition wheels. Behind those are red brake calipers. Finally, there is carbon-fiber trim on the side air outlets and an inset to the diffuser of the rear bumper, just above the exhaust system’s four tailpipes.

Inside, a Superior Gray color scheme greets passengers. Various parts like the seat center and the door panels are quilted and perforated. The upholstery has red contrast stitching and trim pieces. The pedals, the door pins, and the paddle shifters are also in red. The stainless-steel scuff plates proudly display the backlit Brabus logo that is in sync with the ambient light’s color.

Brabus went a little too crazy with the red elements in the interior. PHOTOS FROM BRABUS

But the pièce de résistance is the larger-bore 4.4-liter V8 engine. The two factory turbos have been replaced with Brabus units. Even the exhaust system has active sound management, which can make the motor sound throaty or hushed. All 900ps (888hp) and 1,250Nm can launch the 900 Rocket Edition from zero to 100km/h in just 3.2 seconds. The electronic speed limiter kicks in at 330km/h. And before we forget, the air suspension can lower the car for better control.

This insane SUV will be sold initially in Germany with prices starting at €381,243 (P22.4 million), excluding taxes. Only time will tell if Pharmally executives affluent Filipinos will get one.



Red Santiago

A jack of all trades, Red is passionate about cars, motorcycles and audio. He sometimes drives for a ride-hailing app company—just because he really loves driving.



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