Brabus 800 Widestar: 800hp G 65 AMG debuts at Geneva
Brabus has unveiled the 800 Widestar at the Geneva Motor Show, transforming the Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG into an 800hp, wide-body SUV with extensive performance upgrades.
Brabus has brought its most extreme take on the Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG to the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, unveiling the 800 Widestar. This SUV delivers 800hp and 1,420Nm of torque from a heavily reworked 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine, making it one of the most powerful road-going off-roaders on display at the event.
Brabus 800 Widestar: A More Extreme G 65 AMG
Engine and Performance Upgrades
The Brabus 800 Widestar takes the already potent G 65 AMG and pushes its performance envelope further with a bespoke twin-turbo system. Brabus engineers have fitted custom exhaust manifolds with integrated turbine housings and larger turbochargers, raising boost pressure well above standard. This work, combined with a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system and freer-flowing metal catalysts, delivers the headline figures: 800hp and 1,420Nm, up from the standard 612hp and 1,000Nm.
The performance gains are significant. The Brabus 800 Widestar accelerates from 0-100km/h in just 4.2 seconds, an impressive feat given its considerable size and weight. The top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h, matching the limits set for high-performance SUVs to ensure safety and reliability.
Chassis, Suspension, and Handling
To complement the power increase, Brabus has equipped the SUV with its Ride Control suspension. This system allows the driver to switch between comfort and sport settings, providing adaptability for varied driving conditions. The suspension is designed to balance the demands of high-speed road driving with the G-Class’s off-road heritage, ensuring that the vehicle remains both comfortable and capable regardless of terrain.
The 800 Widestar sits on 23-inch forged Brabus wheels, which are available in several finishes. These large wheels not only enhance the vehicle's presence but also contribute to improved handling and stability at speed. The wide-body kit, with extended wheel arches and new bumpers, gives the SUV a broader and more aggressive stance on the road.
Exhaust and Sound Management
The Brabus stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system is designed for both performance and aural excitement. It features a sound management function, using a butterfly valve to alter the exhaust note according to driver preference. The twin dual tailpipes exit ahead of the rear wheels on both sides, available in either regular or black chrome finishes, adding to the SUV’s visual drama and presence.
Visual and Technical Highlights
- Brabus Widestar wide-body kit with flared arches
- 23-inch Brabus forged alloy wheels
- Electrically adjustable Brabus Ride Control suspension
- Brabus stainless-steel high-performance exhaust with sound management
- Twin dual tailpipes in chrome or black chrome
The wide-body kit and large wheels are not just about aesthetics. They also serve functional purposes, such as improving stability and allowing for wider tyres, which can benefit both on-road grip and off-road capability. The electrically adjustable suspension adds another layer of customisation, letting drivers tailor the ride to their preferences or driving environment.
Availability and Customisation Options
The Brabus 800 Widestar is aimed at buyers seeking extreme performance and presence in a luxury SUV. The conversion is available for new G 65 AMG owners, and the wide-body kit, wheels and suspension can be specified separately depending on customer preference. This flexibility means that owners can opt for a full conversion or select only the elements that best suit their needs and tastes.
Brabus has not announced pricing at Geneva, but the cost is expected to reflect the level of engineering and exclusivity involved. Given the extensive modifications and the base price of the G 65 AMG, the Brabus 800 Widestar is likely to be positioned at the very top end of the luxury SUV market.
Comparison: Brabus 800 Widestar vs Standard G 65 AMG
| Feature | Brabus 800 Widestar | Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 800hp | 612hp |
| Torque | 1,420Nm | 1,000Nm |
| 0-100km/h | 4.2 seconds | 5.3 seconds (approximate) |
| Top Speed | 250km/h (limited) | 230km/h (limited) |
| Wheels | 23-inch forged | 20-inch (standard) |
| Body | Widestar wide-body kit | Standard G-Class body |
| Exhaust | Brabus stainless-steel, sound management | Standard AMG exhaust |
Who is the Brabus 800 Widestar For?
This model targets enthusiasts who desire a unique blend of luxury, off-road capability, and supercar-level performance. Owners of the G 65 AMG looking for a more individual and powerful vehicle are likely to be drawn to the Brabus 800 Widestar, particularly those who value exclusivity and presence as much as outright speed.
Conclusion
The Brabus 800 Widestar makes a bold statement at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, showcasing what is possible when high-performance engineering meets one of Mercedes-Benz’s most iconic SUVs. With its combination of dramatic styling, advanced technology, and superlative power, the 800 Widestar stands out as one of the most extreme luxury off-roaders available to buyers seeking something truly special.
