2007 R63 AMG
Crossover vehiclesare becoming more and more popular and next year will be no different. Mercedes has decided to add their own vehicle to the mix by creating the 2007 R63 AMG. The AMG version of the R-Class, which was brand new for the 2006 model year, shares the same underpinnings as another AMG stable mate, the ML63. The R63 can seat up to six people, making it perfect as a family vehicle.
The numerical significance of its name designates the size of the engine, 6.3 liters, and is rated at 502 horsepower, nearly 200 more than the R500. The V8 engine that is housed within the R63 was devolped and built by AMG and is one of the most powerful ones that is on the market today. Mercedes claims that the luxury wagon can reach 60 mph in about five seconds. The same engine can also be found in the upcoming ML63 AMG, due a few months prior to the R63.
Transferring all that power to the ground will be a seven-speed automatic transmission, featuring buttons on the steering wheel for total driver control of the gear selection. Three modes of driving will be offered for the transmission: Sport, Comfort, and Manual. For the sports sedan-like handling duties, the R63 is equipped with full-time four-wheel-drive, as well as an air-suspension to increase performance while maintaining a comfortable ride.
To bring the locomotive-like thrust from the R63’s 465 lb.-ft. of torque to a stop are exclusive high-performance vented disc brakes found at all four wheels, tucked neatly behind AMG 19” wheels with meaty 295/45R19 tires. Distinguishing the R63 from the non-AMG R-Class models are aggressive front and rear aprons, with flared fenders surrounding those flashy 19” wheels. A revised grill and AMG side skirts complete the package, with twin-chrome exhaust pipes peaking out the rear below the new tinted taillights.
To match the edginess of the exterior, the interior received similar AMG treatment. Sport seats covered in Napa leather with Alcantara inserts in the shoulder bolsters hold the driver and passengers in place, while a leather wrapped AMG steering wheel takes center stage on the steering column. AMG has been a subsidiary of DaimlerBenz since 1999 and is responsible for tuning other such automobiles as the convertible SL65 AMG and the E55 AMG sedan.