Mercedes-Benz has announced plans for a forthcoming convertible version of the iconic Gelandewagen as part of its plans to expand the nameplate, but tuning shop Brabus has beaten the automaker to the punch. The new Brabus XL 800 Cabrio is based on the current W465-generation Mercedes-AMG G63, but outfitted with a power soft top developed by the tuner that packs more than 500 custom components and provides proper open-air motoring at the touch of a roof-mounted switch in just 20 seconds or so.
Being a Brabus, performance has also been boosted. The twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 from the AMG base vehicle has been boosted to 788 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, giving the XL 800 a claimed 0-60-mph time of 4.6 seconds and a governed top speed of 130 miles per hour. It should also excel off-road, thanks to Brabus-developed portal axles that increase ground clearance to 18.9 inches and the 325/55/22 all-terrain tires, as well as the regular G-Class suite of go-anywhere features.
Inside, there's a plethora of red leather trim and carbon fiber to contrast with the pale brown exterior paint ... which, in turn, is also accentuated with plenty of carbon fiber detailing. The spare tire that's long been a staple of G-Wagens is, of course, gone now, but the other changes more than make up for that loss in terms of charisma.
