Mercedes E-Class Cabrio by Piecha Design

Piecha Design has unveiled their new tuning program for the Mercedes E-Class Cabrio.

On the styling front, the convertible has been outfitted with a body kit called Caractére RS that consists of a front spoiler (€735), an aggressive rear diffuser (€785), and a three-piece rear spoiler (€430). Other goodies include side skirts with LED lights (€370), a four-tailpipe Quadro exhaust (starting at €1,385), 20-inch dp2 Phantom wheels (€1,690), and a revised roof module (€359) which allows the top to be raised or lowered at speeds up to 50 km/h (31 mph).

Lastly, Piecha also offers a power conversion (€357) which promises to deliver quicker shifts and "a very fast throttle response."

2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS by Carlsson

German Mercedes tuner Carlsson already has a package for the next generation Mercedes-Benz CLS even before the model goes on sale next month.

Starting things off is the aerodynamic kit which adds some new design touches to the new CLS courtesy of Carlsson chief designer Rolf Schlepp. The kit includes a new front spoiler and RS front spoiler lip, front apron inserts with LED fog lights, stainless-steel grille inserts and power domes for the bonnet. The kit also comes with mudguard inserts too and side moldings with air inlets. For the back, Carlsson fits a new rear apron with built-in diffuser and a rear spoiler. The exhaust system is upgraded with a stainless-steel rear silencer and double oval tailpipes.

The Merzig, Germany-based tuner also provides power upgrades for the CLS on both diesel and petrol engines.

For the CLS 350 CGI, output is dialed up to 333 PS (328 bhp / 245 kW) and 410 Nm (302 lb-ft) of torque from the series' 306 PS (302 bhp / 225 kW) and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) which improves the 0 to 100 km/h sprint by 0.2 seconds to a time of 5.9 s.

On the CLS 350 CDI diesel, the upgrade is less modest thanks to the Carlsson C-Tronic Diesel Power control unit which achieves a 20 percent increase in power. Total output reaches 320 PS (316 bhp / 235 kW) with a maximum torque of 780 Nm (575 lb-ft) - up from the series' 265 PS (261 bhp / 195kW) and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft).

Sprint time on the diesel is also 5.9 seconds for the 0 to 100 km/h run compared to the standard model's 6.2 s.

Carlsson also offers its own 19-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels in a unique design where single and double spokes alternate in a 10-spoke pattern.

Carlsson's C-Tronic Suspension lowers the CLS up to 30 mm on the standard Airmatic suspension.

Inside touches include an Alcantara sports steering wheel and brushed aluminum for the pedals and foot rest.

Mercedes E-Class Coupe by Prior Design

Prior Design has unveiled their new tuning program for the Mercedes E-Class Coupe (C207).

On the design front, the firm outfits the car with new bumpers, revised side skirts and a faux diffuser (€1,899). To further enhance the sporty image, the tuner offers a roof spoiler (€229), a 35mm reduced ride height (€249), and 20-inch wheels which are available in matt black, gloss black and silver (€2,490).

For added performance, Prior Design has two sport exhaust systems and a modified ECU which can add up to 55 kW (74 hp / 75 PS).

Mercedes CLK 63 Black Series by RENNtech

U.S. tuner RENNtech has a new carbon-fiber aerodynamic kit for the Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 Black Series.

The body kit includes a front splitter, carbon air box, front brake air ducts, a rear diffuser and a DTM rear wing. That carbon air box features a vacuum chamber that adds up to 10 hp to the CLK Black Series total output.

But those 10 extra horses don't come cheap. The air box is priced at $2795 while the front splitter and rear diffuser cost $2450 and $3250, respectively. The DTM wing comes it at $3350.

All carbon components are available in either a matte or gloss finish.

RENNtech is also offering a suspension upgrade too with front ($1250) and rear ($945) adjustable camber bushings for improved handling and braking.

Brabus E V12 - The Black Baron

Based on the new 2010 Mercedes E-Class W 212, the E V12 features a 6.0-liter V12 biturbo bored out to 6.3-liters producing 800 hp and 1420 Nm of torque (it's electronically limited to 1,100 Nm). While details are limited, Brabus outfitted the engine with a ram-air system, a quad-exhaust, and revised engine electronics.

To keep the beast under control, the company added a fully adjustable sports suspension, new stabilizers, a high performance braking system, and black 19-inch alloy wheels outfitted with 255/35 (front) and 285/35 (rear) tires.

In terms of styling, Brabus made major modifications to improve aerodynamics, engine ventilation, and brake cooling. Changes include a revised front bumper, new front quarter panels, aggressive side sills, and rear wheel covers. Out back, the car features a trunk-mounted spoiler and a carbon fiber rear diffuser.

Thanks to all these tweaks, the E V12 rockets from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.7 seconds, 0-200 km/h (124 mph) in 9.9 seconds, and 0-300 km/h (186 mph) in 23.9 seconds. If you keep your foot planted, the car will eventually top out at an electronically limited 350 km/h (217 mph). Without the limiter, Brabus estimates the car can hit a top speed in excess of 370 km/h (230 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 15.7L/100km (15 mpg), while CO2 emissions are 372 g/km.

Inside, the car features black leather upholstery, an Alcantara headliner, carbon fiber trim, and a 400 km/h (249 mph) speedometer.

Production will be limited to ten units, and prices start at €600,000 ($875,000 USD).

Mercedes GLK 280 V6 by Lorinser

Lorinser has unveiled a modified Mercedes GLK 280 V6 to highlight their expansion into the world of custom paintwork.

Boasting a "fiery opal" paint job, the GLK is outfitted with a body kit that features new front and rear aprons, larger fog lights, and aggressive side sills. Other touches include a quad stainless steel exhaust system and matte black 9 x 22 inch Lorinser RS 9 light-alloy wheels outfitted with Yokohama tires.

While details are limited, the custom paintwork will be available from the Lorinser Collection. This is an odd choice since the department normally deals in merchandise such as Lorinser branded shirts, hats, and umbrellas (etc).

C 63 Supersport by Kicherer

Based on the Mercedes C 63 AMG, the Supersport features carbon fiber pieces added to the grille, front bumper, mirrors, and engine cover. Other styling updates include aggressive side sills, LED daytime driving lights, and a carbon fiber rear diffuser.

Inside, the cabin receives minor updates in the form of new floormats and an ergonomic sports steering wheel with carbon fiber inserts.

Under the hood, Kicherer removes the "senseless" electronic limiters which allow the engine to produce 550 PS and 630 Nm of torque. More importantly, the company adds an adjustable coil over suspension and a high performance limited slip differential.

To keep the car glued to the road, Kicherer equips Supersport with 20-inch RS-1 forged wheels (that measure 245 front and 275 rear) and an advanced Brembo braking system.

BRABUS SV12 R with 750 hp

Brabus has announced plans to introduce the insane SV12 R at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Based on the facelifted Mercedes S 600, the SV12 R features a biturbo twelve-cylinder engine that has been outfitted with a special crankshaft, forged pistons, revised camshafts, optimized cylinder heads, and a 0.8 liter increase in displacement (5.5 to 6.3 liters). Brabus also added larger turbochargers, a more efficient intercooling system, a high-performance stainless-steel exhaust, and new engine electronics.

Thanks to all these improvements, the engine produces an unfathomable 750 hp (740 bhp / 552 kW) (20bhp more than the previous SV12 S version) and an electronically limited 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft) of torque. As you would expect, the performance is mind boggling. 0-100 km/h (62 mph) takes 4.0 seconds, while the dash from 0-200 km/h (124 mph) takes 11.9 seconds. Hold your foot down and you'll eventually hit the electronically limited top speed of 340 km/h (211 mph).

To keep the SV12 R controllable at these kinds of speeds, Brabus added a high-performance braking system with 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers in the front and six-piston aluminum fixed calipers in the rear. The calipers grab onto massive 380 x 36-mm (15.0 x 1.42 inches) vented and cross-drilled discs in front and 355 x 28-mm (14.0 x 1.1 inches) discs in the rear.

In terms of styling, the front end features an agressive apron with LED daytime driving lights. The apron has been specially engineered to reduce lift and maximize cooling of the engine and front brakes. Further back, there are aluminum sport front fenders and attractive rocker panels with integrated entrance lights. At the rear, Brabus equips the SV12 R with a trunk-mounted spoiler and a bold rear apron which also features integrated lighting.

Envisioned as an office on wheels, the car features an ultra-slim notebook computer, a color printer, and internet access. When the laptop is docked in the trunk, a headliner-mounted 15.2-inch TFT screen serves as a computer monitor (it can also display TV and DVDs). Other unique features include two interior USB ports, electric curtains, and yachting-inspired maple and Wenge wood trim. If that doesn't seem exclusive enough, Brabus offers power deployable tables, illuminated scuff plates and a sport steering wheel among other things.

Lorinser LV8 with 500hp

Lorinser is not a tuner that goes out of its way to create cars that scare other motorists off the freeway. Subtle but effective is how they do it over at Lorinser. Occasionally though, they present something like this which is called the Lorinser LV8. It's based on the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG and instead of pushing out 332kW (451hp) it delivers 368kW (500hp). Maximum torque is also increased to 630Nm. Subsequently the 0 - 100km/h dash can be achieved in 4.3 seconds while top speed goes up to 320km/h.

The LV8 comes fitted with 255/35 18 Continental tyres and a special Lorinser exhaust unit. The aerodynamic kit includes spoiler bumpers and side sills. Lorinser General Manager Marcus Lorinser says the car meets all the registration requirements put on road vehicles.

Look out for the LV8 at the Tuner Grand Prix on the Hockenheimring between the 26th and 27th of June.

Hamann Typhoon based on Mercedes G55 AMG

Cover your eyes and hide the children, Hamann has unveiled their new Mercedes G55 AMG-based Typhoon.

Set to compete with the 700 hp Brabus G V12 S Biturbo, the Hamann Typhoon features 600 hp (441 kW) and 782 Nm (576 lb-ft) of torque thanks to a high performance HM600 power kit that includes new engine electronics, a beefier belt pulley set, and a revised transmission with its own oil cooler. The net result of all these changes is a 0-100 km/h time of 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 261 km/h (162 mph).

Hamann's engineers have also tweaked the legendary Geländewagen's styling by adding carbon fiber mirrors, door handles, fender vents, and a massive front grille. Other exterior design changes include a front spoiler with LED-daytime running lights, a revised rear bumper with an integrated diffuser, a six tailpipe exhaust system, 24-inch wheels, and a roof-mounted spoiler.

The unique sporting theme continues in the cabin as the Typhoon features a Hamann steering wheel, aluminum pedals, a 24-piece carbon fiber trim set, illuminated stainless steel door sill plates, and exclusive velour upholstery.

VÄTH V63RS Power-C-Class Clubsport Wagon

German tuner Väth is slowly gaining a reputation for kits that are somewhat over the top. At this point the company introduces the new Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Estate-based Väth V63RS Clubsport wagon. It follows on the V63RS Clubsport sedan that was announced just over a year ago.

There we see a power increase from the stock 451hp (332kW) and 600Nm (443 lb ft) of torque to a Väth-certified 585hp (430kW) and 690Nm (509 lb ft) of torque. The car is fitted with a limited slip differential that has a 60 percent locking rate. Good thing too because the C63 AMG has a knack for losing grip during quick take-off. These changes will help the V63RS achieve a top end of 202mph (325km/h).

A sport suspension has been incorporated and high performance brakes fitted. The wheels are 20-inches wide and keep the car firmly planted on the road. The rear end has a carbon fiber diffuser.

Väth also promises goodies like a TV/ DVD unit "and whatever else your heart desires."

Carlsson SL CK63 RS

Carlsson has finally released details regarding the amazing SL CK63 RS which first debuted at the Essen Motor Show.

Based on the Mercedes SL 63 AMG, Carlsson reworked the standard car's V8 engine with 525 hp (386 kW) and 465 ft-lbs (630 Nm) of torque to produce 600 hp (411 kW) and 705 Nm (520 ft-lbs) of torque. This pays modest dividends in terms of performance as Carlsson estimates the SL CK63 RS will rocket to 62 mph in 4.1 seconds while the fore mentioned SL 63 AMG is a few ticks slower at 4.5 seconds. The vehicle's top speed has also been increased to 325 km/h (202 mph).

Carlsson engineers also threw in several other performance minded changes including an electronic lowering C-Tronic suspension, a high-performance carbon composite braking system, and ultra light 20-inch wheels outfitted with high-performance Dunlop SP SportMaxx tires.

The exterior features a new aerodynamic kit which includes a reworked bumper with mesh inserts for the air intakes and a new front spoiler and rear diffuser which are both constructed of lightweight polyurethane. A unique stealth titan graphite paint scheme with a matte finish is available but if that doesn't suit your tastes there are five other exterior colors to choose from. Inside, the car gets a luxurious treatment of leather and alcantara applied to the seats and door trim.

German pricing starts at a rather pricey €272,500 but cars as exclusive as this never come cheap.

Mercedes SL Evo II by KICHERER

This Mercedes by Kicherer is not the new SL. It is not the SL 63 AMG. It's all Kicherer. At least, that's what the German tuner claims. And we make no arguments against that.

The Kicherer Mercedes SL Evo II is based on the old Mercedes SL R230. But Kicherer has made it its own, with a carbon fiber rear wing and front skirt, hand-made, lightweight cast wheels and a few other in-house goodies.

The whole package also includes new side air intakes to make the SL Evo II breath a little easier and carbon fiber aerodynamic paneling all around, including a rear diffuser, lessen air resistance. The lightweight rear wing makes up the patented KICHERER Downforce-System, an electronically controlled flap that optimizes down force on the rear axle for maximum performance and stability.

For even stickier handling, a suspension lowering by an additional 25 mm is made possible through a re-programming of the electronic suspension system.

RENNtech Looks for Mercedes SL 65 AMG to Hit WARP Speed!!!

Since, BRABUS unveiled a tuned version of the Tesla roadster which featured a "space sound generator" that can simulate two "futuristic soundscapes" called Warp and Beam, RENNtech is now on the counter-attack with a photo of what can only be described as a very tacky Mercedes SL 65 AMG that they claim can hit WARP speed.

Maybe RENNtech can do a promotional tie-in with the new Star Trek movie that will be coming out next year. As in, when you buy a happy meal at McDonald's for your kid and you get a RENNtech Mercedes SL 65 AMG as a prize. Wouldn't be a bad deal.

RENNtech are being coy here and we can indulge them because that photo looks, well, so ridiculous it begs for more jokes. So here we go.

Carlsson Present Noble RS-design Kit for Mercedes S-Class

An exclusive tuning kit for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is available from specialist Carlsson. The new RS kit consists of several key elements which include four additional high quality lights made up of a fog set and high beams. Just to the middle of that is an integrated front apron and front spoiler lips to make the look sportier.

The grille is characteristic of Carlsson, as their badge sits at the front of the bonnet. Specially made side skirts for the RS kit have stainless steel grille inserts that show aggression at the front. The rear end is just as miffed; a rear RS apron and diffuser, topped with a carbon fiber rear spoiler. Wheels are light alloys stretching 21-inches. Sound comes from the four stainless steel double-walled tailpipes which are heat-insulated and streamlined for road growling.

The RS kit is available in carbon fiber or polyurethane (PU) underlining sport and pace. PU is a highly regarded plastic solution used in various industries. The kit, internally codenamed V221 at Carlsson, is good for the entire S-Class range which consists of S 320 CDI, S350, S 450, S 500, S 600, S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG.

Mercedes CL Widebody Kit by VITT Performance

Looking for a new look for your CL-Class? Japanese tuners VITT Performance have unveiled a new widebody kit for the Mercedes CL-Class coupes. In VITT CL-Class Super Wide Edition form, the curvy but conservative CL gets the supercar treatment, with dramatic reworkings of the front and rear fenders and side sills. The bulging fenders are complemented by a choice of new front and rear aprons and a spoiler package. The new front bumper includes quad foglights. VITT also adds a roof spoiler and a vented hood.

20-inch wheels and a stainless exhaust comprise the bulk of the mechanical upgrades in this appearance package.

Pricing for the full VITT CL-Class Super Wide conversion is set at about $20,000.

Carlsson Aigner CK65 RS 'Eau Rouge' Dark Edition

Carlsson is exhibiting the Carlsson Aigner CK65 RS "Eau Rouge" Dark Edition at the 2008 Zürich Auto Show in what is billed as a World Premier for the famous tuner. The limited edition, highly exclusive CK65 RS will only be offered to 10 lucky customers. Two versions, a 705hp/ 526kW and a 756hp/564kW can be had. Both utilise the V12 Biturbo engine, with the latter going up to 1,150Nm, prompting a 0 - 100 time of 3.8 seconds and top speed of 335km/h.

Partnering with apparel house Etienne Aigner for the project, Carlsson chose the double-coloured combination obsidian black metallic with Himalaya-gray as exclusive paint. Interior is redesigned and fitted with Aigner-branded kit such as the alcantara, leather, headrest embossment, sun shields and rear screen frame. A Carlsson sports steering wheel in a leather/ alcantara combo works well with the sports aluminium pedal pads and illuminated doors.

Other bits that justify its €319,000 base price (€374,000 for the second power stage) are Carlsson sport running gears, brake systems, an LSD, 21-inch forged rims with a varied choice of wheel/ tyre combinations and C-Tronic SUSPENSION which adjusts to reflect appropriate road surface conditions.

Project GL MAMMUT by A.R.T.

German tuner A.R.T. has named its latest idea the MAMMUT, which is translated as MAMMOTH and you can see why. Appropriate because of size association but also because of current attitudes toward SUVs of this size, the GL could very well go the mammoth way. Before that though, treatment from A.R.T. is fitted to Mercedes-Benz's GL-Class to the max; only the engine has received minimal work. The A.R.T. MAMMUT differs from standard dealer cars in a number of areas, so we'll start from the exterior.

The MAMMUT holds its own looks-wise by going very aggressive, incorporating broadened front fenders, LED headlights, large nostriled air inlets, cornering lights and fog lights. As a consequence, MAMMUT by A.R.T. looks very purposeful upfront.

Rear lights are also LED and feature a function that illuminates them when any of the doors are open, which is a good safety precaution. Enhancing the look backside is an integrated rear diffuser, four-pipe hard-chrome tail pipes with A.R.T. logos and an integrated roof spoiler. Illuminating for passengers too, are the STEPLIGHTS which light up the running boards for easy access into the cabin area.

A sports steering wheel makes for quite an attentive driving experience and interior appointments are sharpened by a choice of the following combinations: leather/fine wood, leather/leather, leather/alcantara, or leather/carbon fiber.

So far only cars marked "CDI" have been completed, with V6 and V8 models lined up for treatment later. A.R.T. promises a 20% increase in speeds for the MAMMUT over the standard vehicle, yet fuel consumption is kept in check.

Kicherer CL 65 Coupe with 650hp

Kicherer has realised the value of absolute power by putting in some outstanding work into a Mercedes-Benz CL 65 AMG. The car is Benz's finest work as far as the coupe body type is concerned, already sporting a nice 612 hp/ 450kW V12 of two turbos and 1000Nm. Kicherer was never going to be satisfied as any power-hungry world car fan would know, and so decided to up the game a little. Later on that.

For the exterior they chose a few changes, headlined by 9 and 10 x 20" Kicherer RS-X lightweight wheels, carbon fiber mirror shells, rear diffuser, front grille and front apron whose deflector is also of the black light stuff. The exhaust system is a mirror-finished affair with four tailpipes, and supposedly makes the most glorious of sounds.

Inside as expected the CL 65 receives velvet glove treatment, from the alcantara ceiling, carbon intarsia, to the nappa leather seats, and handmade hand-worked shag pile carpet for the back. And now for the numbers you want. Kicherer has managed to squeeze out 38 more stallions out of the engine to give it a well-rounded 650 hp/ 486kW and oak-pulling 1200Nm. A rear diff lock helps plant it firmly on tar. For that you get 0 - 100km/h in 4.2 seconds and a limited 320km/h for your top end.

Hamann Volcano Based on Mercedes Mclaren SLR

How much torque does a volcanic eruption have? Well, it does indeed take a lot of steam to melt rocks and push the lava straight up through the earth's crust and Hamann-Motorsport does a good job of rivaling that with their own Volcano.

The Hamann Volcano is a supersized version of what is already one of the world's most renowned supercars - the Mercedes McClaren SLR. Hamann technicians were able to boost the Mercedes Benz 5.4 liter, 626 hp, 780 Nm V8 and take its performance to 700 hp and 830 Nm of torque at 3,300 rpms; giving the Hamann a 0-100 km/h time of only 3.6 seconds.

But performance is also improved by aerodynamics, with the addition of new lift-reducing wing extensions in both the front and the rear as well as new side skirt attachments and sheathings.

Interiors also get yet another luxurious do-over. It includes aluminium pedals, foot-rests, door sills, head-rests and floomats with the Hamann logo and the use of the top-quality material Alcantara for custom center console and dashboard parts.