Teaser: Lorinser becomes the first tuner to announce a package for the 2012 Mercedes M-Class and release a rendering to preview what they have in mind for the new SUV. From what we see there’s a heavily revised bumper with new air intakes and LEDs at front, a bold new grille, flared arches to make the car look wider, side skirts, and presumably a rear diffuser thingy and a roof spoiler. The actual kit is in development and will be revealed in a couple of months.

 

German tuner has a complete program for the new 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
Brabus is bringing its tuned version of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class to the Essen Motor Show.

The tuning program for the M-Class starts with a subtle body kit made of Pur-R-Rim plastics which includes new sill skirts that make the SUV look longer and sleeker and also feature entrance lights that turn on when pulling on the door handle.

The program also includes a power upgrade on the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC diesel variant by means of the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit with output bumped up to 306 PS (225 kW / 301 hp) and 690 Nm (509 lb-ft) of torque from the series 258 PS (190 kW / 254 hp) and 620 Nm (457 lb-ft). The sprint time from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) comes in at a flat 6 seconds and top speed is increased to 229 km/h (142 mph).

Brabus also offers its Monoblock wheels sized between 18 and 22 inches on the M-Class. A standard suspension lowering of 30 mm is part of the program and for the M-Class with AIRMATIC suspension a Brabus module can lower the ride-height by 30-40 mm.

Interior touches include the bi-color stainless-steel scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo as well as the matte-anodized aluminum pedals. Brabus also offers fully individualized finishes for the cabin.

 

Maybe we'll even be able to see the dual exhaust!!

 

How do tuners effect the warranty on the engine?

 

Any tuning that changes the engine power can potentially void warranty for certain parts, including the whole powertrain. Some mods are claimed to be invisible, or reversible, but buyer beware.

 

I figured as much just didnt know if MB had a policy that any add on automatically voids warranties.

 

It's a case-by-case basis. Also, in the US Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act applies, essentially meaning a modification has to be linked to the failure, the manufacturer can't just blanket cancel a warranty.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnuso...s_Warranty_Act

 

I've just gone though the warranty issue on a CLK. If you mess with the ecu you've voided your warranty and I don't care what lawyer you get on the Magnuson-Moss issue you're going to lose. The ecu is the holly grail and MB will defend it to the max.

Suspension changes depend on your dealer. Many dealers will say I'm going to refer it to the rep who will deny your claim so the dealer can say it's the factory's decision. Depends on what you're trying to cover. For less than a grand suck it up.

Wheels and exhaust you're ok unless you deleted the cats. Intake changes are a 50/50 crap shoot. Aftermarket suspension springs will result in a void if you blow out a shock. Basically cosmetic stuff is ok, power train mods are going to meet resistance.

Let's be glad we're not driving Porsche's where an exhaust change voids the warranty on a rear main seal! Manufacturers are feeling the pinch in the economy and to giving away parts and labor.

 

Does the ML350 BlueTec have only a single hidden exhaust? I ask because I noticed that Brabus went with a single exhaust in stead of a dual setup.

 

Good to know

 

I believe it's two pipes exiting the muffler on the left.

 

Got it. I guess what I meant to say was I'm surprised they didn't go with a quad exhaust (I said dual thinking both sides of the bumper) But from what you described, it sounds like the diesel only has a single muffler outlet which would make sense for Brabus to only have the left exhaust exit then.

 

Sells guy told me the samething...do not do anything to the engine or drivetrain. Not even an air-filter.

I had my last car (Dodge-Charger) up to around 600rwhp. And really didnt car, because parts were cheap...I don't think so much with this. I won't be able to order parts as cheap and easy as an american vehicle.

 

Press release
April 2012

WORLD PREMIER
TUNING WORLD BODENSEE 2012
28.4 – 01.05.2012 Friedrichshafen

A masculine entry -
Sportservice Lorinser presents its newest wide-body version of the Mercedes-Benz ML

Sportservice Lorinser is refining the Mercedes-Benz ML and will display the
impressive results in a world premier at TUNING WORLD BODENSEE 2012 (hall B5,
booth 200, Yokohama). Manufacturing of the highest technical level, in conjunction with master craftsmanship and the finest materials - that's the quality benchmark produced by Lorinser with the wide-body version of the ML. Harmoniously designed aerodynamic components and striking light-alloy wheels make up the base, high-quality accessories and stylish interior fittings complement the range.

Lorinser has used cutting edge manufacturing techniques for its extensive bodywork
modifications. Whether front or rear bumper, side-skirts or those at the front of the vehicle and rear 30 Millimetre widening mudguards - all components have been manufactured in lightweight construction. The Lorinser wide-build documents sophisticated aerodynamics packaged in a spectacular look: Large air inlets on the newly designed front ensure an optimum flow of fresh air into the drive unit.

Striking 10x22 inch RS9 light-alloy wheels and 295/30/22 size Yokohama tyres fit
perfectly under the wider mudguard. The light-alloy wheels are accentuated by progressively wound suspension springs that lower the centre of gravity of the ML on the front and rear axles by up to 40 millimetres. Lorinser developed a set for manual lowering for models that come equipped with Airmatic as standard.

To complement the existing, factory-offered interior fittings there is everything you need to get the pulse racing - from personalised floor mats set right through to complete leather upholstery. All fitting details are manufactured to the highest level of craftsmanship and precision.

Testing has already led to powerful performance improvements as well as exhaust
systems with a sporty sound.

You can find out more about the Sportservice Lorinser refining program at
http://www.sportservice.lorinser.com/news.html

 

Not into the low riding, however are there any nicely done off road tuning pictures?

 

Given the low rate for off road mods on this type of vehicle, I wouldn't hold your breath.

 

Dang, that sucks. It's all good at least those trucks look nice! Thanks for the pictures Greg

 

very porsche-esque

 

I like the rear and the visible dual exhaust. I'd be tempted to do the exhaust and rear cap, and even the front valance, without the the fender bubbles.

 

That's a sales guy for you! I agree with Jim Brady that rear exhaust section, wheels, etc. are very low risk in terms of messing up your warranty.

 

Here's the Brabus rear for both gas & diesel.

http://www.brabus.com/en/raster.php?...3&modell=21372

 

Now this is what I'm talking about. While not perfect, the flarrings look much more integrated:


see: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2012/04...es-benz-m.html

 

Yes, much nicer.

 

I really like this one:

 

I'm not crazy about the black wheels. Plus they look like they would rub making a u-turn. But the rest looks sweet.