Brabus Bodo Review: Driving the In-House Tribute to Founder Bodo Buschmann

A new chapter unfolds at Brabus as the luxury tuning house presents its first in-house developed car: the Brabus Bodo. Named in honor of late founder Bodo Buschmann, eight years after his passing, this imposing Gran Turismo coupe serves as a dramatic tribute inspired by the golden era of the automobile. Based on the Aston Martin Vanquish, the Bodo measures 16.6 feet long and combines a menacing exterior with bespoke engineering.

Performance and Engineering

Beneath the massive, grooved hood lies a heavily reworked 5.2-liter V12 engine sourced from Aston Martin. Brabus implemented a revised injection system, a custom turbocharging setup, and bespoke engine calibration to push output into four-digit territory at 1,000 horsepower. Between 2,900 and 5,000 rpm, the engine delivers 885 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission to 21-inch rear wheels wrapped in Continental SportContact 7 Force tires.

Driving Impressions

Testing the car on wet asphalt in Bottrop revealed a surprisingly relaxed and composed machine. Despite its immense power, the Bodo functions as a true plus-two Gran Turismo, featuring comfortable ergonomic seating, good visibility, and five distinct driving modes for everyday usability. When pushed on a quiet stretch of road, the power delivery remains smooth and progressive, while a front and rear axle lift system adds practical ground clearance over rough surfaces.

Interior, Customization, and Availability

Inside, the cabin blends exposed carbon fiber, Nubuck leather surfaces, and leather floor mats with Piano Black and Shadow Gray trim, alongside turbine-style air vents. Buyers can extensively personalize materials and colors, though prices start at around €1 million and can reach up to €1.5 million. Production is strictly limited to 77 coupe examples, with another 77 convertibles planned for the future.

Practical Implications and Verification

• Performance Figures: The Bodo features a claimed top speed of 224 mph.
• Practicality: Rear seating is limited to children or small passengers, and trunk access is constrained by a relatively small opening.
• Verification: Interested buyers and enthusiasts should consult official Brabus announcements and authorized dealers to verify vehicle specifications, exact pricing, and availability details.