Brabus, the renowned German tuner, has created an ultra-exclusive open-top version of the Mercedes-AMG G63. With production limited to just 50 units each, the Brabus 800 and 800 XL Cabriolets offer extreme performance and luxury at a price tag exceeding $877,000 for the base model, with the XL pushing over $1 million. This move bypasses Mercedes’ own plans for a factory-built G-Class Cabrio, delivering the desired product to affluent enthusiasts now.
Engineering the Impossible: A Retractable Roof for the G-Class
The conversion from hardtop to convertible wasn’t simple. Brabus engineered a fully retractable soft top, utilizing over 500 custom-made components. This complex system opens and closes in just 20 seconds with the push of a button and includes a heated glass rear window. To maintain structural integrity, the vehicle features a reinforced windshield frame and a carbon fiber bow to prevent deformation at high speeds. A rear roll bar and protective cover for the roof when lowered further enhance safety and longevity.
Performance and Aesthetics: The Brabus Signature
Both models receive Brabus’ signature Widestar body kit, custom tailgate, and massive 24-inch Monoblock ZM wheels wrapped in high-performance Hankook Ventus S1 Evo ZX tires. Sport springs lower the ride height by up to 1.6 inches (40mm), while the interior boasts custom leather upholstery, carbon fiber paddle shifters, and an Airscarf system for comfortable open-air driving. The cabin is heavily branded with Brabus insignia.
Under the Hood: Unrestrained Power
The heart of both vehicles is a heavily tuned twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 789 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, the standard 800 accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 4 seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 149 mph.
The 800 XL: Off-Road Capability Redefined
The 800 XL variant takes things further, sacrificing some on-road performance for extreme off-road capabilities. It features a purpose-built portal axle suspension system providing 18.9 inches of ground clearance. This model rides on smaller 22-inch all-terrain tires, sacrificing some speed for rugged terrain. The 0-62 mph time increases to 4.6 seconds, with the top speed reduced to 130 mph.
Why this matters: Brabus isn’t just modifying cars, it’s filling a market gap. Mercedes hasn’t yet delivered the G-Class Cabriolet many enthusiasts desire, creating an opportunity for aftermarket specialists like Brabus to capitalize on high demand. The price reflects not just performance, but exclusivity and the complexity of engineering a convertible roof onto an otherwise boxy, off-road oriented vehicle. This highlights a trend in luxury automotive: customizability and rapid response to consumer preferences, even if it means circumventing traditional manufacturer timelines.
