Brabus Presents the World’s First Euro 6 Compliant Performance Kit for Diesel Models

Mercedes-Benz tuning specialist Brabus has presented a new ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit for the S350 BlueTec, and by doing so, the company claims to have created the world’s first tuned diesel-powered car that meets the Euro 6 emissions standard, scheduled to go into effect in 2014. Available for both rear-while drive and 4MATIC four-wheel drive variants, the kit delivers an additional 55HP and 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) of torque, for a total of 313HP and 690 Nm (509 lb-ft).

Designed to work like a plug-and-play device, the module increases the 3.0-liter V6 diesel’s output depending on the selected shift mode of the 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission. In “Eco” mode, peak torque increases, but the engine output remains unchanged (258HP), while in “Manual” or “Sport” mode maximum power is also boosted.

The modified S350 sprints from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a very respectable 6.5 seconds and can reach an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

The Brabus ECO PowerXtra D6S unit can be also fitted to all Mercedes E350 CDI BlueEfficiency variants as well as the CLS 350 CDI BlueEfficiency model, delivering identical output.

All models come with a three-year or 100,000 km (62,000 miles) warranty and can be specified with a custom Brabus stainless-steel exhaust with 4 tailpipes, delivering a more distinctive exhaust note and further optimizing power yield.

By Csaba Daradics

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Binz Xtend E-Class Estate Asks The Question: A Hearse for a Daily Driver?

In 1961, the Checker Motors Corporation, makers of the ubiquitous Checker cab, decided – for whatever reason – to offer a civilian version to private buyers. Called the Superba, you won’t be surprised to learn it was a complete financial flop. Checker went back to making taxi cabs, no doubt thankful they didn’t try to market a civilian hearse instead.

Flash forward to 2011. At the Essen Motor Show in December of last year, European specialist coachbuilder Binz announced the Xtend E-Class estate, and now the car has entered production. By slotting in an extra 861 mm between the rear doors and rear axle, Binz have extended the estate’s cargo volume to a whopping 2620 litres. That’s better than some vans.

Weight is up to a heavy two tonnes while everything else, including the tires and choice of engines, remains standard E-Class fare. Oh, and the hearse-like styling should come as no surprise. Apart from the 6-door E-Class limousine, Binz is also a builder of several Mercedes-Benz derived hearses including one based on the swoopy CLS.

Imagine the sort of nightmares you’ll give your dachshund when it realizes it’s riding in the back of a hearse or the looks on your kid’s faces when you drop them off at school in something even Herman Munster would be embarrassed to be seen in. In my opinion, Binz should stick to building limousines. Let us know what you think in the comments section below.

By Tristan Hankins

Source: Binz via Benzinsider

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