Brabus Rocket 900 Unveiled at 2015 Geneva Show with 900hp V12
Brabus revealed its Rocket 900 at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, turning the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG into a 900hp super saloon with extensive upgrades inside and out.
Brabus brought its most powerful four-door to the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, unveiling the Rocket 900 based on the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG. The German tuning house increased power output to 900hp and reworked the car throughout, targeting buyers who want supercar performance in a luxury saloon. The Rocket 900 stood out at Geneva as one of the most extreme vehicles on display, demonstrating Brabus’s approach to combining comfort, technology and astonishing speed.
Introduction: Brabus at Geneva 2015
Engine and Performance Upgrades
At the heart of the Rocket 900 is a heavily modified version of the S65 AMG’s V12. Brabus increased displacement to 6.3 litres and fitted larger turbochargers, custom exhaust manifolds and a new intake system. The result is 900hp (662kW) and a peak torque of 1,500Nm, though torque is electronically limited to 1,200Nm to protect the drivetrain. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a reinforced seven-speed automatic gearbox. Brabus claims 0–100km/h in 3.7 seconds, making it 0.6 seconds quicker than the standard S65 AMG. The 0–200km/h sprint takes 9.1 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to over 350km/h (217mph), placing the Rocket 900 among the fastest saloons ever built.
With more than 350hp above the standard S65 AMG and torque figures that rival many supercars, the Rocket 900 demonstrates just how far Brabus is willing to push the limits of a luxury saloon. The significant increase in power and performance required extensive engineering, particularly to ensure reliability and drivability at such high outputs.
Chassis, Body and Interior Changes
To match the performance, Brabus fitted a new carbon fibre aerodynamic kit, including a front spoiler, rear diffuser and side skirts. These components are clear-coated to showcase the material and reduce weight. The car sits 15mm lower on bespoke air suspension, which is designed to improve handling while maintaining ride comfort. Brabus Monoblock alloy wheels, available in 21- or 22-inch sizes, fill out the arches and contribute to the car’s aggressive stance.
Braking and cooling systems have also been upgraded to handle the increased power output. The Rocket 900 is equipped with high-performance brakes and revised cooling to ensure stability and safety at high speeds, which is essential for a car capable of exceeding 350km/h.
Inside, the Rocket 900 features Brabus’s iBusiness multimedia system, which integrates entertainment, connectivity and productivity features tailored to the needs of luxury car buyers. The cabin is further enhanced with redesigned upholstery, stainless steel scuff plates, aluminium pedals and a speedometer marked up to 400km/h. Buyers can specify a range of bespoke materials and finishes, allowing for a highly personalised interior.
Efficiency and Emissions
Brabus quotes fuel consumption of 17.1L/100km in the city and 8.6L/100km on the motorway. CO2 emissions are rated at 279g/km, figures that reflect the car’s performance focus rather than efficiency. These numbers are similar to other high-powered V12 saloons, though the Rocket 900’s output is in another league, making it less about economy and more about delivering an uncompromising driving experience.
Position in the Market and Geneva Motor Show Context
Brabus’s Rocket 900 is aimed at buyers who want the comfort and presence of an S-Class but with performance that rivals or exceeds many supercars. Its Geneva debut placed it alongside other extreme performance models at the show, underlining the continued demand for high-output, bespoke saloons. The 2015 Geneva Motor Show was notable for a number of headline debuts, including the European introduction of the Corvette Z06 and concepts from Mercedes-Benz and Kahn, but the Rocket 900 drew attention for its blend of luxury and extraordinary speed.
Brabus’s approach with the Rocket 900 highlights the appeal of ultra-high-performance saloons in a market where exclusivity and individuality are increasingly sought after. The car’s combination of power, technology and luxury sets it apart from both standard Mercedes-Benz models and other tuning house offerings. For enthusiasts and collectors, the Rocket 900 represents a rare opportunity to own a four-door car with the performance credentials of a supercar, without sacrificing comfort or refinement.
Summary Table: Brabus Rocket 900 Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6.3-litre twin-turbo V12 |
| Power | 900hp (662kW) |
| Torque | 1,500Nm (limited to 1,200Nm) |
| 0–100km/h | 3.7 seconds |
| 0–200km/h | 9.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | Over 350km/h (217mph, electronically limited) |
| Transmission | 7-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive |
| Wheels | 21- or 22-inch Brabus Monoblock alloy |
| Suspension | Bespoke air suspension, 15mm lower |
| Fuel Consumption (city) | 17.1L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption (motorway) | 8.6L/100km |
| CO2 Emissions | 279g/km |
| Interior Features | Brabus iBusiness, bespoke upholstery, 400km/h speedometer |
