Brabus Rocket GTS Brings 986 HP And Shooting Brake Style To The AMG SL
by AutoExpert | 29 October, 2024
Brabus has just unveiled a stunning creation that might be its most extravagant yet: the Rocket GTS. At first glance, it looks like a Mercedes-AMG SL, but a closer look reveals a breathtaking transformation into a sleek Shooting Brake, wrapped in carbon fiber and powered by a hybrid engine that churns out an astonishing 986 horsepower.
Brabus rose to the challenge, crafting custom body panels from scratch, including the roof, pillars, rear fenders, and tailgate.
The result? A striking bodykit that showcases bold front fenders, a vented hood, and sporty air intakes, all intended to attract attention and create envy on the road. Built using prepreg carbon in an autoclave, the Shooting Brake design recalls the iconic BMW Z3 M Coupe and the recent Z4-based Concept Touring Coupe. Brabus proudly claims that the design has undergone extensive wind-tunnel testing, ensuring exceptional stability at speeds well over 186 mph.
The flat roofline, pronounced ducktail spoiler, and aggressive rear diffuser aren’t just for show; they significantly enhance downforce, giving the Rocket GTS an exhilarating edge. The Rocket GTS rides on Brabus Monoblock P Platinum Edition wheels, which feature integrated carbon aeroblades to help cool the brakes. At the back, you’ll find quad carbon-coated titanium tailpipes with active exhaust flaps that produce a soundtrack worthy of its impressive performance.
Under the hood lies a reworked 4.5-liter twin-turbo V8 paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 986 hp and jaw-dropping 1,195 lb-ft of torque. Initially, Brabus achieved an even more staggering 1,342 lb-ft, but they dialed it back for the sake of the nine-speed automatic transmission’s longevity. This powerhouse setup offers a remarkable boost of 181 hp and 148 lb-ft over the standard Mercedes-AMG SL63 S E Performance. Brabus claims the Rocket GTS can sprint from 0-62 mph in just 2.6 seconds, reach 124 mph in 9.5 seconds, and hit 186 mph in 23.6 seconds.
Brabus caps the top speed at 197 mph for those who are adventurous enough. Inside, the taller Shooting Brake design offers more room for luggage, making it the most practical SL on the market. The interior is a luxurious haven, with soft leather and Alcantara adorning the cabin. This particular example showcases a sleek blend of slate gray and jet black, accented by light gray stitching that complements the carbon fiber exterior.
Although Brabus has not revealed the number of Rocket GTS models in production, they have already listed the first one on their official website, with a staggering price tag of €945,762.50 (about $1,024,553). This isn’t just a car; it’s a bold statement of power, luxury, and individuality—guaranteed to turn heads and command attention wherever it roams.