The inspiration for creating this high-performance V260 MPV came from a particular experience. One day, a customer had to drive his modified Maybach version of the V260 himself due to an unexpected event, instead of relying on his chauffeur. During the drive, he noticed that the factory-installed brake system wasn’t responsive enough, and the power delivery felt insufficient, failing to provide the quick acceleration and safety he desired in critical moments. This concern from a safety perspective led him to seek performance upgrades, particularly in improving torque and ensuring earlier engagement of idle speed (cost was not a concern for him).
This is the factory test data of the V260 Maybach modified version:
Please note, this is not the real Maybach version, but a V260 MPV modified by a Chinese factory, published by Mach5 Performance.
From the dyno log we can see that the V260 produces 50 whp at 2170 rpm, 70 whp at 3040 rpm, 90 whp at 3910 rpm, and 110 whp at 4780 rpm. In real-world driving, the most commonly used range is between 2170 and 3910 rpm, which is where the tuning needs to be maximised. Therefore, we have adjusted the ECU remap as follows :
Additionally, during one occasion when he was sitting in the back with his child, he felt the car's body lacked stability, especially during turns, making it feel somewhat floaty. This heightened his need for enhanced stability. To address this, we installed three stabiliser bars to improve the vehicle's handling during cornering.
Based on these specific requirements, Mach5 Performance collaborated with leading industry manufacturers to develop custom parts and tuning solutions exclusively for the V260. One of the key challenges was ensuring perfect compatibility with the air suspension system, which involved a somewhat complex removal process, but we successfully integrated all the modified components with the original setup.
After tuning, the V260 MPV is now equipped with the M274 engine, with power output increased from the factory’s 135.8 horsepower (101.3 kW) to 210.8 horsepower (157.2 kW), a gain of 75 horsepower (55.9 kW), resulting in significantly improved throttle response. We also installed a Mach5 Performance 200cpsi downpipe, ensuring no ECL warning lights and perfect compatibility with the OPF system’s negative and positive pressure ranges. Additionally, we upgraded the suspension with KW coilovers, replaced the air filter with a BMC performance filter, and fitted a full set of Brembo calipers and brake discs on both the front and rear, delivering a comprehensive performance enhancement.
Here are some gallery images for your viewing ：
This is the OEM air filter :
BMC high-flow air filter :
Location of the stabiliser Left bars:
There are some installation details to note here! The vehicle body is made of aluminium alloy, but even so, we need to apply a coating on the existing surface for additional protection. The installation position has been calculated to be optimal, avoiding any interference with the Mach5 Performance exhaust system and leaving enough space to prevent noise. It is recommended to repaint and protect the chassis after installation for additional durability.
Location of the stabiliser Right bars :
Front section: Factory brake disc, brake caliper, and rear suspension：
Rear section: Factory brake disc, brake caliper, and rear suspension：
Performance Brembo brake discs, calipers, brake lines, and KW rear suspension, front section of the vehicle：
Performance Replaced Brembo brake discs, calipers, brake lines, and KW rear suspension, rear section of the vehicle:
The V260 is ready for testing before the dyno log session：
We used Autotuner's online logging tool to analyse the Mercedes V260 M274 engine ECU data. This process involved seven or eight rounds of testing and remapping:
Read more What is Autotuner ?
This is a photo of the jumper wires connected during the tuning of the V260 M274 ECU, which is a Bosch unit. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that the V260 model is not listed in Autotuner, so we used the ECU module from the C-Class M274 engine, published by Mach5 Performance.
V260 IN Dyno log by Mainline AWD120 :
Further Reading:
- A Pioneer in Exhaust System Insulation and Performance Optimization of Mach5 Performance.
- Reverse Engineering and How Mach5 Performance Optimizes Automotive Parts Development with Technology
- TCU Tuning Remap Performance and Efficiency
- What You Need to Know About ECU (Engine Control Unit) Tuning
- How to Improve the Efficiency of the Exhaust Stroke
- How to Improve the Efficiency of the Power Stroke
- How to Improve the Efficiency of the Intake Stroke
- High-Flow Dry Air Filters Designed for Performance Engines
- Why Scientific Calculation Tools Are Essential for Mach5 Performance’s Manufacturing Process
- Electrical System DTC Codes Overview
- Comparison Between Mach5 Performance Ceramic Insulation Solution and Non-Insulated Systems
Visit:Mach5 Performance Online Store
Explore more about ceramic insulation blankets and other high-performance exhaust insulation materials by visiting the Mach5 Performance Online Store, or consult our professional advisors to find the best insulation solution for your vehicle.
