Two distinct takes on the niche Convertible G-Class format
The convertible G Class continues to remain rare and highly sought after on the secondary market. Factory open-top models have existed in minimal numbers, and once production ceased, anyone wanting a convertible G faced has had limited options. This has left a gap in the market for specialist aftermarket engineering firms to create solutions that are structurally validated machines with purpose. German tuner Brabus, amongst others, has since stepped into this lucrative space of an open-top G-Class, and the latest to join their lineup are the XL 800 Cabrio and 800 Cabrio.
The convertible architecture is the key achievement here. Both models use a soft top system built from more than 500 components and reinforced with high-strength steel to maintain torsional rigidity equal to the closed-top G 63. The roof opens or closes in 20 seconds and features heated rear glass. A carbon fiber surface bow stabilizes airflow and reduces wind noise. The C BOW steel roll bar integrates into the body and uses exposed carbon elements that signal both structure and design intent.
Where the two models differ is in the hardware below. The XL uses portal axles designed for extreme off-road traction and clearance. Riding on 22-inch forged Monoblock Z HD wheels, it wraps around 325-section all-terrain tires and measures 82.6 inches in overall width. The 800 Cabrio uses 24-inch Monoblock ZM Platinum Edition wheels with 295-section front and 345-section rear high-performance tires aimed at road grip.
Exterior finishing is equally detailed, with the 800 XL Cab XL featuring a Pale Brown finish, where the standard 800 Cab features a stealthy black finish. Further highlights include full paint conversion of chrome and plastic surfaces, exposed carbon body elements, illuminated grille logos, and complete WIDESTAR body systems.
Inside, the XL features Ravion Red leather throughout the cabin, trunk, and footwells with Shell quilting, whereas the 800 Cabrio contrasts Oxford Sand and Cairo’s Brown leather and integrates Airscarf heating into the headrests for comfort at speed with the roof down. Both use quilted floors, carbon controls, and illuminated entrance panels.
Under the hood, both versions run a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 800 horsepower and 737 pound-feet of torque through a Speedshift TCT nine-speed transmission that you can control manually using carbon paddles. A valve-controlled exhaust system changes tone instantly at the press of a button, shifting from restrained to a full V8 profile depending on the setting. The 800 Cabrio can hit 62 mph in 4.0 seconds and reaches a limited top speed of 149 miles per hour. The XL variant peaks at 130 miles per hour and focuses on stability under load rather than outright speed.
As for pricing, the XL will set you back roughly €1.05 million or $1.22 million (based on current exchange rates), while the standard 800 Cabrio will set you back €9.06 million or $1.04 million.
Images: Brabus
