Test Drive: Mercedes Brabus CLK D4

The Mercedes CLK is the stylish, classy coupe for the affluent. However, in its standard form, it does appear slightly mundane & dull. Renowned Mercedes tuners Brabus has taken the standard CLK and added more power and also a more sporty looking bodykit complete with nicer & bigger sports rims to create the Brabus CLK.

Exterior & Design: The Brabus bodykit complements the CLK’s classy design besides aerodynamic enhancements. The CLK looks more aggressive and sits lower thanks to the set of Brabus suspensions together with the Monoblock light 18” alloy rims. Double xenon foglamps are nestled snugly on either side of the Brabus front spoiler. An array of Brabus emblems are added to remind onlookers of its Brabus lineage. A pair of stainless-steel BRABUS sport exhaust systems and sport rear muffler complete the look at the rear.

Interior: The interior is solidly built as it is afterall a Mercedes Benz. Leather seats are comfortable and rear seats sit 2 adults comfortably. The CLK comes with a high-end in-car hi-fi which sounds impressive, powerful & refined. The dashboard & buttons are all driver-oriented and easy to use. It comes with a huge boot space which is able to fit all your luggages & 2 golf bags for a weekend getaway.

Engine: My test unit is the Brabus D4 which is based on the CLK 270 CDI. The Brabus D4 Tuning Kit boosts power of the common-rail turbo diesel engine from standard 170 bhp / 125 kW to 215 bhp / 150 kW. Maximum torque increases to 450 Nm. The Brabus D4 is definitely responsive with its 475 Nm of torque available early in the rpm range.

The Drive: Getting into the Brabus D4 feels very special. It looks classy & exciting and definitely begs to be driven. It is equipped with a keyless entry & keyless drive system. Just keep the key fob in the pocket and depress the Merc logo on the gear lever to start the car. On the outside, the engine sounds a little bit more harsh compared to a Merc petrol engine. But on the inside all is quiet, comfortable and serene. Depress the throttle and the car responds immediately. 0-100kph is dispensed in just 8.4 seconds. The steering is light and responsive. A little bit more steering feel would have been great. However, the Brabus D4 handles beautifully during both low & high speeds. The Brabus D4 feels planted to the ground even when cruising at speeds above 180kph.

Conclusion: The Brabus CLK D4 is the classy coupe for the discerning gentleman. It is not a racer but a coupe for cruising the boulevard with style. It is an able all-rounder which sits 4 adults comfortably and provides enough grunt shall the need arises. Driving the Brabus CLK D4 makes one feel special as it is indeed a special & rare car. With the upcoming E-series Coupe, the CLK moniker will no longer be used but this Brabus CLK D4 will remain in memory.