German tuner Prior-Design recently released their PD Widebody Styling Kit for the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R230).  The inspiration behind their latest creation was the superlative Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series, with main changes serving to add a widened, more aggressive stance to the model.

As described by Prior-Design, the new widebody kit includes new overwhelming fenders, futuristic facelift headlights, front spoiler with large air inlets, and a perfectly round rear bumper with integrated diffuser to top it off. The PD Widebody kit is available either inslight carbon or full carbon.

Complimenting Pior-Design’s SL styling kit, a wide wheel and tire combination is available as a complete set in the following sizes: PD1 wheels (three-piece stainless steel outer bed, black finish) in 10×20 inch with 265/30R20 (front axle) and 12×20 inch with 305/25R20 (rear axle).

And if that wasn’t enough, the German tuner made it possible to lower the car either mechanically or electronically (with integrated Airmatic).  You can see more of the Mercedes-Benz SL PD Widebody Styling Kit by Prior-Design as well as view its complete press release immediately below.  Thanks to Topspeed for the photos.

Mercedes-Benz will be represented for the first time at this year’s “Klassikwelt Bodensee” (Lake Constance Classic World) from 3 to 6 June 2010 in Friedrichshafen, where it will be putting on an extensive vehicle display. Featuring an extremely diverse programme of events, the fair is a reflection of the history of mobility comprising historic means of transport used on land, on water and in the air. As such it is an ideal match for the basic motivation which drove Gottlieb Daimler (1834 to 1900), who constantly pursued the comprehensive vision of promoting mobility with the aid of his wide range of vehicles of all types.

“Our stand in Hall 7 will be based on the theme of traditional open-air driving pleasure”, explains Michael Bock, head of Mercedes-Benz Classic. “We will be displaying the famous 300 SL Roadster, which made its debut in 1957. There will also be a couple of young classics on display: a 124-series Cabriolet – the open four-seater was produced from 1991 to 1997 – as well as a 107-series Mercedes-Benz SL (1971 to 1989).”

The stand will also include a Mercedes-Benz Museum shop. The brand clubs devoted to the S-Class and the 107 and 129-series SL will also be represented at “Klassikwelt Bodensee”.

Visitors will be able to view the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG super sports car in Outdoor Area East in front of Exhibition Hall 6 – along with the new E-Class Cabriolet, an SLK and an SL. These open-top vehicles form the link between the Mercedes-Benz vehicles on display in Hall 7 and the present day – and at the same time represent the classics of the future.

The attention-grabber in Courtyard 1 will be the Mercedes-Benz Classic Truck, which will be going on public display for the first time with its newly designed interior and exterior. The truck presents the history of the brand and also highlights the wide range of products and services available from Mercedes-Benz Classic.

This year will mark the third time that the “Klassikwelt Bodensee” has taken place following its much-heralded premiere in 2008. The event is held in various locations in and around Friedrichshafen: in the grounds of the exhibition hall in Friedrichshafen, at the airport, on Lake Constance and even on stretches of the railway. Visitors will be able to view all types of historic vehicles, from cars, commercial vehicles, trains and ships, right through to aircraft. The organiser is expecting around 380 exhibitors. The show is also associated with a classic car market. A parallel event – “the electric avenue expo” – is devoted to electric mobility. Additional information is available at www.klassikwelt-bodensee.de.

First there was the BRABUS VANISH – a finely tuned 800 horsepower monster born of the Mercedes SL65 AMG Black Series created by German Mercedes super tuner BRABUS.  Never one to rest on their laurels, BRABUS went back to work, creating a second model based on the SL65 AMG Black Series they’re calling the BRABUS Stealth.  This time, power has been bumped from the standard SL65 AMG Black’s 670 PS (493 kW / 661 bhp) up to an even more incredible 820 PS (603 kW / 809 bhp) and 1420 Nm (1047 lb-ft) of torque – this compared to Vanish’s 800 PS (588 kW / 789 bhp).  0-62 mph times are likely equal to that of the Vanish (3.6 seconds), while top speed checks in at over 206 mph.

Creating the consummate power supply, the BRABUS T65 RS performance kit was again put to work, which includes two enhanced turbochargers, a new intercooler with 4 water/air heat-exchangers, an additional radiator, three electric high performance coolant pumps, a dynamic pressure lowering metal catalytic converter and BRABUS’ software programming for the engine ECU.  The result is a one-off SL65 AMG Black Series that at present, holds title as the most powerful BRABUS-tuned SL65 AMG Black Series in existence.

You can see a short video and photos of the BRABUS Stealth Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series immediately below.

Because I know you can’t get enough of the tuning genius that is BRABUS, we’ve got a look at one of the company’s creations for a second straight day – this time, in the form of the ML63 AMG.  Outside, the BRABUS ML is fitted with the company’s ML WIDESTAR package, with modifications including a new front apron, front and rear fender flares, door trim, rocker panels and rear apron.  Also present is a set of BRABUS Monoblock light alloy wheels, as is a lowered ride height to improve the ML63’s handling characteristics.  Inside, BRABUS is back with another very red interior, with highlights including new custom red seating, red door panels and lower dash, new floor mats and red stitching throughout.  And last but not least, there’s the power, with BRABUS ML packing a more-than-suitable 650 horsepower.  Impressive, to say the least.  To see more of the BRABUS ML63 AMG, you can check out more pictures in the photo gallery below.

Back in March we brought you details of the BRABUS tuning program for the 2010 Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet – a well rounded assortment of enhancements ranging from engine upgrades to aerodynamic improvements and new interior appointments.  Today we’ve got your first look at a second BRABUS E-Class Cabriolet, this time, with changes on the outside limited to new front fenders with integrated air ducts and a set of BRABUS Monoblock wheels.  Under the hood, power is supplied by the BRABUS 6.1 engine producing an output of 462 hp (456 bhp) / 340 kW and a peak torque of 615 Nm (453 lb-ft) at 3,100 rpm – enough to help the E-Class Cabrio accelerate from 0-62 mph in a brisk 4.7 seconds before reaching a top speed of 186 mph.

Inside, changes are… how do I say this… less than subtle.  A new BRABUS interior featuring red leather seating with diamond pattern stitching is present, as is matching red leather in the door panels.  In the rear, occupants are treated to a BRABUS multimedia system with two monitors mounted on the back of the front seats, while new BRABUS floor mats and red stitching throughout the entire vehicle completes the list of BRABUS interior customizations.

To see more of the BRABUS Mercedes E 6.1 Cabriolet, you can view some additional photos in the gallery below.

Going through our inbox this beautiful May morning, the fine gentlemen over at Wald sent us some new photos of the work they’ve done on the Mercedes E-Class – one of the W211 variety, and the second of the W212.  The first is the Wald W211 WAGON SPORTS LINE Black Bison, an enhanced version of the prior E-Class Estate clad in what’s grown to become the traditional Wald fare.  A new front and rear bumper, new side skirts, new front fenders with integrated air ducts and a DTM Sports Muffler are all present, as are 20″ Wald Germania rims.  Topping it all off, the chrome elements have been replaced with those of a carbon fiber variety, while a lessened ride height (i.e. you can barely see the rear tire) add the finishing touches on the now sportier E-Class Wagon.  You can see more of the Wald W211 WAGON SPORTS LINE Black Bison in the gallery below, and be sure to stay tuned for part two of today’s Wald tuning coverage.

As you may remember, last month we brought you the first details of the BRABUS T65 RS Vanish – the super-tuned Mercedes SL65 AMG Black Series with an output of some 800 horsepower.  Today, BRABUS has officially issued the Vanish’s full specs, and while they match what we previously told you, can you really get tired reading about an 800hp SL65 AMG?  Of course not, so here again is the rundown.  Zero to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds.  Zero to 124 mph in 9.8 seconds.  A top speed of over 206 mph, electronically limited to 200 mph.  This is the BRABUS T65 RS Vanish.

Making it happen – the BRABUS T65 RS tuning program.  A BRABUS high-tech twin turbo system that includes two special exhaust manifolds with integrated turbine housings and high-performance turbochargers; four generously dimensioned intercoolers beneath the BRABUS carbon-fiber hood scoop; a BRABUS stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts; and newly programmed engine electronics with special mapping for injection and ignition all serve to bump power to 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm and an even more impressive peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft), available at 2,100 rpm (peak torque is limited electronically to 1,100 Nm).

It’s a thing of beauty, and if you’ve got an extra $100,000 (approximately) to spend customizing your SL65 AMG Black Series, it’s yours.  For the full list of  BRABUS T65 RS Vanish Mercedes SL65 AMG Black Series enhancements, you can find the full details in the press release below.

If you’re looking to add a touch of carbon fiber to your 2010 Mercedes E63 AMG, Vorsteiner has announced the availability of the V6E tuning package.  Consisting of a carbon fiber front add-0n spoiler, a carbon fiber rear diffuser and carbon fiber deck lid spoiler, the V6E adds nothing in terms of power, but it does make your E63 AMG look a little faster.  For an even greater level of customization, you can also add in a set of Vorsteiner’s V-308 Sport Concave three-piece forged wheels with a black finish.  It’s not revolutionary, but for anyone wanting to differentiate their E63 AMG from a traditional E63, it’s an option. You can check out more of the Vorsteiner V6E 2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG in the video and gallery below.

You’ve got to hand it to Japanese tuners – when it comes creating unique styles, for better or for worse, there’s nothing like them.  Take the creature before you.  It began life as an R230 Mercedes SL55 AMG – that is, until Vitt became its surrogate mother.  A new front bumper and fender here, a new front bumper and rear fender there, some side skirts, a carbon rear wing and a new exhaust system, and poof, like magic, this black wide-bodied monster they’re calling the Squalo was born.  It’s cost:  a mere $23,736, going off today’s exchange rate (it’s 2,205,000 yen), on top of whatever a used SL55 AMG will set you back.  Want one?  You can find more details and dealer info at Vitt’s website.

Earlier in the week we brought you the first look at the BRABUS Vanish – a ridiculously powered Mercedes SL65 AMG Black Series outputting some 800 horsepower.  At the time, we didn’t have specifics on the model other than pictures and some rough specs, but today we’ve got a far more detailed feature rundown along with some additional photos at the model.

First things first:  the all-important power numbers.  As we told you last time, output is boosted to the 800 hp mark, up from the SL65 AMG Black Series’ factory 670 hp.  Making the magic happen is the BRABUS’ T65 RS performance kit, which includes two enhanced turbochargers, a new intercooler with 4 water/air heat-exchangers, an additional radiator, three electric high performance coolant pumps, a dynamic pressure lowering metal catalytic converter and BRABUS’ software programming for the engine ECU.  The end result is a 0-62 mph time of 3.6 seconds (down from the standard SL65 AMG Black Series’ 3.8 seconds) and a top speed of about 205 mph (we’re still awaiting the official press release from BRABUS to confirm final speed figures).

Inside, leather and Alcantara add additional styling elements to the BRABUS Vanish SL65 AMG Black Series.  Also notable is the addition of red stitching, with the seats, dashboard, middle console, door panels, steering wheel and floor mats all boasting the red accents.  Other changes include the powerdome hood conversion, matte black paint and a new speedometer with a top speed of 360 km/h.

As for the BRABUS Vanish’s pricing, you’re looking at roughly EUR 42,000 for the T65 RS performance kit, EUR 8,000 for the hood and speedometer, EUR 14,500 for the interior and EUR 7,000 for the paint, bringing the rough total to EUR 71,500 (which, at the time I write this, is about $96,771).  Add to that the Mercedes SL65 AMG Black Series’ price of roughly $320,000, and you’ve got yourself one very fast, very expensive SL-Class.

To see more of the BRABUS T65 RS Vanish Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series, you can view more photos in the gallery below.  And a special thanks to Markus Jordan for the pictures.

When thinking of the Mercedes SL65 AMG Black Series, it’s only natural to think of a model that exemplifies the tuning prowess of AMG.  Straight from the factory it’s capable of hitting 62 mph in 3.8 seconds and 124 mph in 11.0 seconds before achieving a top speed of an electronically limited 198.8 mph.  For most, that’s plenty of power; but for an unknown Middle Eastern SL65 AMG Black Series owner, it was just the starting point.

He took the consummate model to BRABUS, where they worked the same tuning magic they do on every other Mercedes and applied it to the SL65 AMG Black.  The end result is a said bump in power of some 130 hp – taking the SL65 Black’s standard 670 hp to the 800 hp mark.  Larger turbos, a new gearbox, larger brake pads and an upgraded exhaust system are attributed to making it all possible.

As for the result of the power boost, BRABUS hasn’t quoted specifics, but it likely shaves a few tenths off the acceleration times while removing the speed limiter likely bumps top speed well into the 200+ mph range.  If additional details are revealed, we’ll keep you updated; in the meantime, check out more photos of the BRABUS VANISH Mercedes SL65 AMG Black Series in the gallery below.

Thanks to Top Speed and PistonHeads for the photos.

Depending on the model in question up to an additional 26 hp  / 19 kW more power, an increase in torque of up to 40 Nm (30 lb-ft). BRABUS ECO PowerXtra CGI performance kits offer powerful engine tuning for the Mercedes 200, 250 and 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY models with direct-injection gasoline engines. Exemplary low emissions that meet EURO V limits and less than an hour installation time.

BRABUS ECO PowerXtra CGI tuning unleashes the true power inherent in these eco-friendly engines – without jeopardizing the built-in safety reserves. The BRABUS engine specialists put just as much emphasis on exemplary low emissions: All engines equipped with BRABUS ECO PowerXtra CGI performance kits meet strict EURO V emission limits.

The processor-controlled plug & play BRABUS ECO PowerXtra CGI auxiliary control unit can be installed by any authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer in less than an hour. The unit is designed to monitor all engine sensors and will only activate the power mapping once the engine reaches its optimal operating temperature and all sensor readings are in the green. This eliminates any chances that the increase in performance might result in a shorter engine life.

Equipped with the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra CGI kit the four-valve four-cylinder direct-injection engines in the C 200 and E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY models produce an additional 26 hp (25 bhp) / 19 kW and an increase in torque by 30 Nm (22 lb-ft).

Rated power output of the Mercedes C 250 and E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY models with BRABUS ECO PowerXtra CGI tuning jumps from standard 204 hp (201 bhp) / 150 kW to 230 hp (227 bhp) / 169 kW at just 5,500 rpm. Simultaneously peak torque grows from 310 Nm to 350 Nm (228 to 258 lb-ft).

The most powerful direct-injection gasoline engine from Mercedes-Benz at present, the 3.5-liter V6 in the C 350, CLS 350 and E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY models, produces an additional 18 hp (18 bhp) / 13.2 kW. Performance of these models improves markedly as well: In combination with the BRABUS Vmax Unit that eliminates the standard speed limit of 250 km/h top speed grows from 250 to 267 km/h (155 to 166 mph).

All BRABUS performance-tuned CGI engines deliver not just excellent performance but also favourable fuel economy thanks to the engines’ improved pulling power. BRABUS custom-tailored stainless-steel sport exhaust systems are the perfect complement to engine tuning for all Mercedes CGI BlueEFFICIENCY models.

You may think the Mercedes G55 AMG in and of itself boasts enough power to satisfy the demands of the average power-hungry consumer, and you’d be right.  Straight from the factory, the G55 AMG boasts 373 kW/507 hp, a maximum torque of 700 Nm, a zero to 62 mph time of 5.5 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph.  Fast by any standards; but in an SUV, especially the G-Class, very fast.  But there’s always those that want more, and for this group, there’s Vath.  They’ve opted to tune the model to an even more extreme level, bumping power to 680 hp and torque to 840 Nm.  The result is a newly improved top speed of “wow should I really be going this fast in a G-Class?” 165 mph.

So how’d they make the magic happen?  Under the hood, changes include a new intake manifold, a complete outlet system, coolers, and a patented Vath fuel cooler.  Adding a touch of sportiness to the G55, a new front bonnet, a front spoiler with enlarged air intakes, LED daylight lamps, and sport exhaust system were added, as was a new lowered suspension system and 22″ rims.  Inside, carbon and Alacantara accents remind the pilot that this isn’t an oridnary G55 AMG, while a sport braking system with 390mm disks rounds out the list of modifications.

I personally value my life and will stick to the more than sufficient factory Mercedes G55 AMG.  But for those of you living life on the edge, photos and the Vath G55 AMG press release follow.

Exclusive, sporty and highly individual: These three attributes best describe the BRABUS custom program for the new E-Class Cabriolet that will be available in time for the car’s market launch. As for all other Mercedes models BRABUS offers an extensive product lineup for the E-Class Cabriolet that leaves nothing to be desired. The lineup features engine tuning, including the BRABUS 6.1 capacity engine with 462 hp (456 bhp) / 340 kW of power, a dynamically styled aerodynamic-enhancement program, custom-tailored wheels with diameters ranging from 17 to 20 inches, corresponding sport suspensions and striking interior options.

The BRABUS engine specialists unleash the true power inherent in the common-rail turbodiesel engines and CGI BlueEFFICIENCY direct-injection gasoline engines with ECO PowerXtra performance kits.  The BRABUS ECO Power Extra D4 power kit bumps rated power output of the four-cylinder turbodiesel engine of the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model from standard 204 hp (201 bhp) / 150 kW to 235 hp (232 bhp) / 173 kW. Simultaneously peak torque grows to 560 Nm (413 lb-ft).  The BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6 (III) module for the six-cylinder turbodiesel engine of the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model bumps power output to 272 hp (268 bhp) / 200 kW and peak torque to 590 Nm (435 lb-ft).  BRABUS ECO PowerXtra CGI tuning increases power output of the E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY gasoline model from standard 204 hp (201 bhp) / 150 kW to 230 hp (227 bhp) / 169 kW at a low 5,500 rpm. Peak torque jumps from 310 Nm to 350 Nm (229 to 258 lb-ft).

In the E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY model with direct-injection gasoline engine BRABUS tuning provides an additional 18 hp (18 bhp) / 13.2 kW.  The most powerful BRABUS option for the Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet is the BRABUS 6.1 capacity engine. The V8 engine of the E 500 (US: E550) model is modified extensively. A steel billet crankshaft with longer stroke, larger cylinder bore and correspondingly larger pistons affect a displacement increase from 5.5 to 6.1 liters (336 to 372 cubic inch). The engine conversion further includes four-valve cylinder heads optimized for mixture flow, installation of special camshafts and the BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust system with high-performance metal catalysts. Custom-programmed engine electronics ensure the precise interaction of all new components.

Like all BRABUS engines the BRABUS 6.1 capacity engine is lubricated exclusively with ARAL high-performance synthetic motor oil. It produces a rated power output of 462 hp (456 bhp) / 340 kW and a peak torque of 615 Nm (453 lb-ft) at a low 3,100 rpm. Powered by this engine, the E-Class convertible sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). This level of performance places the tuned E-Class Cabriolet firmly among the world’s fastest four-seater soft-top cars.  BRABUS backs all components with the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers / 62,000 miles (see BRABUS warranty conditions as of November 2006).

Stainless-steel BRABUS sport exhaust systems are available for all E-Class models and offer optimized power yield, a sporty exhaust note and striking looks with four exhaust tips.  To lend the new convertible an even more breathtaking appearance the BRABUS designers have developed a sporty yet elegant aerodynamic-enhancement package manufactured from high-quality Pur-R-Rim plastics in OEM quality. The BRABUS front spoiler features integrated LED daytime running lights and lends the Mercedes an even more succinct frontal appearance. But that’s not all: This aerodynamic component also reduces unwanted lift on the front axle at high speed.

The side view receives some added pizzazz with BRABUS front sport fenders with integrated air openings. The BRABUS rear valance with centrally mounted reflector and custom cutouts left and right provides the perfect backdrop for the BRABUS quad sport exhaust. The understated BRABUS rear spoiler is essential for the car’s excellent aerodynamic balance at high speeds.

One-piece or multi-piece BRABUS Monoblock alloy wheels with diameters of 17, 18 or 19 inches round out the exclusive BRABUS look. The largest tire/wheel combination for the E-Class Cabriolet features BRABUS Monoblock VI, E, Q or S wheels in size 8.5Jx19 on the front axle and in size 9.5Jx19 in back. The optimal high-performance tires come from Pirelli and YOKOHAMA in size 235/35 ZR 19 in front and up to size 275/30 ZR 19 on the rear axle. 20-inch BRABUS wheels will be available for the new Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet in the near future.

The BRABUS suspension solutions are calibrated specifically to the use with these sporty low-profile tires. The available options range from sport springs, which lower the ride height of the two-door by some 30 millimeters (1.2 inches), to height-adjustable coil-over suspensions with variable damper rates.

Maximum active safety is also a top priority when it comes to brakes: Various BRABUS high-performance brake systems are available including the top-of-the-line version with six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 360-mm (14.2 inches) vented and perforated discs on the front axle and four-piston aluminum fixed calipers in the rear.

BRABUS also offers the perfect interior customization experience for the soft-top Mercedes:  The interior program includes stainless-steel scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS logo, an ergonomically shaped BRABUS sport steering wheel and genuine carbon-fiber elements in a number of different colors for dashboard, center console and door panels..

BRABUS wood inlays add a special flair of exclusivity. Special production techniques allow these inlays to be manufactured in any color imaginable with polished, matte or open-pore surface finishes.  The BRABUS upholstery shop transforms especially soft yet durable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara into gorgeous interiors according to customers’ personal color and design preferences.

With the launch of our new site we’ve been hard at work catching up on the stories we missed during our absence, and one story we felt necessary to add to to our features is a look at the Carlsson C25 Super GT – a model that celebrated its world premier at this year’s Geneva Motor Show.  If you missed it, the Carlsson C25 was conceived from the platform of the consummate Mercedes SL65 AMG Black Series, the race-inspired SL coupe boasting 493 kW/670 hp and a maximum torque of 1,000 newton metres directly from the factory.  Carlsson took the SL65 Black a step further, bumping output to a staggering 554kW/753 hp and 1,320 Nm torque (electronically limited to 1,150Nm).  The end result is a model capable of accelerating from 0-62 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds before hitting a top speed of precisely 218.7 mph.

But the Carlsson C25 is more than just a tuned SL65 AMG Black Series, it’s design makes it a model unto its own.  Outside, both the front rear have been heavily re-worked, with a Carlsson’s trademark trapezoidal shapes featured throughout.  The headlights and taillights have both been significantly altered; there’s a new elongated front with a revised hood, front apron and grille; the rear of the vehicle boasts a far more angular shape with a radically altered exhaust design; and the contours over the rear wheel arches now flow to the back of the vehicle, as opposed to following the wheel downward (these are just some of the design changes).  Inside, stronger traces of the Mercedes SL65 AMG Black Series remain, although Carlsson has clad the interior in a new plum color comprised of buffalo leather and ultra-suede.

Completing the package and ensuring optimum drivability, a Carlsson high performance braking system with with 405 mm large slotted race brake discs up front and 380 mm race brake discs at the rear, the Carlsson C-TRONIC SUSPENSION system and Carlsson ultra-light and forged wheels (40 percent lighter than custom light alloy wheels) all serve to help you adequately manage the abundance of power at your disposal.

If you’re interested in procuring a Carlsson C25, there’s a couple caveats.  First, Carlsson will only be delivering one C25 per country in an effort to ensure exclusivity, and secondly, Carlsson’s allotment of only 25 vehicles has already been sold out.  If you have your heart set on the C25, however, I have a feeling that if your finances match your desires, you’ll likely see one or two C25’s pop up on the second hand market in the not-too-distant future.

While you’re waiting, feel free to read more about the Carlsson C25 Super GT in the official press release below and view a photo gallery showcasing the C25’s design and official reveal in Geneva.

It’s Friday ladies and gentlemen, and what better way to make the final day of the workweek fly by than with a bit of tuning action for the 2010 Mercedes E-Class?  We couldn’t agree more, so here’s a look at the latest W212 E-Class offering courtesy of Wald.  Highlights include a new front apron with integrated fog lamps, new side skirts, a new rear apron, and up front, added venting behind the front wheels.

Topping it all off, as any good tuner does, Wald’s thrown in a stylized pair of their new G11C wheels –  20×85 up front and 20×95 in the rear.  Delieveries of the new G11C kick off in the beginning of April.  To see more of the Wald 2010 E-Class Black Bison Edition, you can check out a pair of photos in gallery below.  Enjoy ladies and gentlemen.

Understatement cannot be considered as one of the advantageous features of VATH V58. This is also true with the SLK AMG R171. Not only can you not ignore the outside appearance of VATH V58, but also the SLK performance under the hood. A high-performance 565 hp and 770 Nm engine is running in the motor compartment. The increase in performance and thus engine upgrading is achieved by cylinder capacity improvement by 5.8 liters combined with a compressor.

These upgrades include sports pistons, sports distribution shafts, exhaust manifolds, catalysts of high-grade steel, sports exhaust silencers, polished cylinder heads, a sports air filter and a long-stroke crankshaft. Together with fine adjustment of electronics, this is enough to launch the cabriolet with a speed of 310 km/h. The cost of such performance improvement amounts to 30,785 Euro including installation works and technical inspection fees.

Optionally, the VATH tuning company supplies a locking differential for 5,224 Euro and its home-produced and patented fuel cooler for 2,070 Euro.

19-incher wheels guarantee an impressive appearance with mirror polished rim wells of high-grade steel. They are available off-the-shelf in silver, black or the car colour at your choice. High durability tyres with the front size of 235/35 and 275/30 at the back axle ensure excellent contact with the road.

Custom-made threaded sports chassis (3,677 Euro including installation works and wheel alignment) draws the car nearer to the road surface – from 20 to 65 mm (user adjustable).

To improve stoppage characteristics, VÄTH provides high-performance brake system (6,009 Euro including installation works and technical inspection fees). Six-piston saddles with 378-millimeter brake disks are provided at the front.

What is more, VATH has made SLK more streamlined thanks to carbon components. The aerodynamic package includes carbon front spoiler lips (1,404 Euro), varnished in black here, and a rear diffuser (1,952 Euro) with visible carbon Finns and prolongation of the underside.

Interior package (2,975 Euro) consists of climate control system, ashtray protective coating, gear shift gate, gear knob, light-reflecting door coatings and left/right seat position control coverings.

To be in harmony with the car’s interior climate, VATH offers sports steering wheel, if desired, with leather, carbon or fine wood trimming for 1,416 Euro.

Special thanks to MercJames for the photos and press release.

We received an anonymous tip this morning from a reader directing our attention to a new Lorinser tuning package for the newest iteration of the Mercedes S-Class.  Although we weren’t able to find the official press details of the Lorinser package, it appears to follow the company’s traditional customization method.  This includes new front and rear aprons, side skirts, a rear spoiler and last but not least, new side vents.

Topping it all off, there’s the requisite Lorinser wheel package, which from Lorinser website appear to be 9×21-inch up front with 265/30 tires and 10×21-inch in back with 295/30 tires.  Hit the gallery below to see the Lorinser Mercedes S-Class in all its unfettered glory.

For those of you questioning how you can squeeze a bit of extra performance out of the 2010 E-Class Coupe, Kicherer’s unveiled a model they’re calling the E 50 Coupe aimed at doing exactly that.  The model features both a software update and sport exhaust system, with the end result being an increase  of 42 PS and 20 Nm’s of torque (this on top of the standard E-Class Coupe’s 388 PS and 530 Nm torque).

Outside, a new front lip and grille, side skirts, a rear diffuser and modified mirror housings are present, all of which are constructed from top-quality carbon fiber.  Topping it all off, Kicherer RS-1 20 inch wheels mated to a high performance braking system, both of which help ensure optimum handling and stopping ability.

To see more of the Kicherer E 50 Coupe, check out the complete gallery below.

For the fifth consecutive time the readers of Germany’s leading car magazine ‘auto motor und sport’ have voted for BRABUS as the best and most popular tuning brand.

Almost 100,000 readers participated in the poll that saw an undisputed victory for BRABUS: 49.2 percent of the participants voted for BRABUS as the tuning company that has the products they deemed most appealing, giving the company from Bottrop the title of ‘BEST BRAND 2010’ in the category “Tuning Companies.”

“This fifth emphatic vote for us in a row once more validates the BRABUS philosophy of developing and building fascinating and exclusive high-performance automobiles and tuning components,” says BRABUS CEO Prof. h.c. Bodo Buschmann. “At the same time, being voted the best tuning brand also represents a binding obligation for my team and me to continue to work diligently to meet and exceed the high expectations our fans and customers place on us.”