Tuner Special: Carlsson CK50 for Mercedes-Benz GL500

MERZIG, Germany — Carlsson Autotechnik, the Mercedes-Benz tuning specialist, has adapted its CK50 engine kit for the GL-Class utility vehicle.

EDMUNDS - - In the GL, the CK50 boosts output to 435 horsepower and torque to 443 pound-feet. Carlsson says the modified GL will gallop from zero to 60 mph in less than 6.1 seconds and will achieve a top speed of 154 mph. Performance is further enhanced with the addition of a stainless steel exhaust system with quad pipes.

Carlsson also provides a C-Tronic electronic suspension lowering kit that drops the ride height by 1.4 inches and automatically compensates for changes in the road surface.

To complete the package, a variety of ultralight wheels in sizes up to 22 inches are available. As always, aero body enhancements and a full range of interior appointments help the owner customize the vehicle to his or her taste.

For more information, see the Carlsson Web site.

What this means to you: The CK50 engine kit seems like such a cozy fit in the GL-Class.