What Is It?
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class: R320 CDI Short Wheelbase and Vision R63 AMG
What's Special About It?
The R320 CDI Short Wheelbase is a little more than 9 inches shorter than the long-wheelbase version, which was introduced first. It's disappointing this smaller R-Class won't be imported to the United States, because its 3.2-liter turbodiesel V6 (224 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque), firmer suspension, and tidy dimensions probably make for a sporty drive. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-62-mph time of less than 9 seconds and 25 mpg.
Still it's the U.S.-bound R63 AMG that shared the turntable with the smaller R320 that really looks fun. It's powered by a broad-shouldered 6.3-liter V8 that should turn this family wagon into a road-going version of a Learjet. Without relying on a turbo- or supercharger, the all-aluminum, double-overhead cam, 32-valve engine makes an astounding 510 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.
All that power is sent through a seven-speed automatic and through all four wheels. Drilled disc brakes the size of four large pizzas stand ready to scrub off the easily gotten speed. Performance figures weren't given, but a sub-6-second 0-60 time and an electronically limited top end of 155 mph are expected.
Typical AMG eye candy adorns the R63, such as an aggressive "splitter"-style front fascia with mesh inserts, and of course the quad-exhaust pipes. Although this show car wore massive 21-inch AMG wheels, expect 19-inchers on the production version.
Lending their support are heavily bolstered sport seats designed by AMG. Cabin materials are top grade, with napa leather and Alcantara suede being used heavily throughout.
Although the R63 on display wore the resurrected "Vision" name from the R-Class' concept from 2002, according to Rob Moran of Mercedes, the production version won't use the moniker.
What's Edmunds' Take?
It gladdens our enthusiast hearts to see AMG put its magic touch on everything. Who said a family car can't be cool? OK, a rich family's car. — John DiPietro
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class: R320 CDI Short Wheelbase and Vision R63 AMG
What's Special About It?
The R320 CDI Short Wheelbase is a little more than 9 inches shorter than the long-wheelbase version, which was introduced first. It's disappointing this smaller R-Class won't be imported to the United States, because its 3.2-liter turbodiesel V6 (224 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque), firmer suspension, and tidy dimensions probably make for a sporty drive. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-62-mph time of less than 9 seconds and 25 mpg.
Still it's the U.S.-bound R63 AMG that shared the turntable with the smaller R320 that really looks fun. It's powered by a broad-shouldered 6.3-liter V8 that should turn this family wagon into a road-going version of a Learjet. Without relying on a turbo- or supercharger, the all-aluminum, double-overhead cam, 32-valve engine makes an astounding 510 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.
All that power is sent through a seven-speed automatic and through all four wheels. Drilled disc brakes the size of four large pizzas stand ready to scrub off the easily gotten speed. Performance figures weren't given, but a sub-6-second 0-60 time and an electronically limited top end of 155 mph are expected.
Typical AMG eye candy adorns the R63, such as an aggressive "splitter"-style front fascia with mesh inserts, and of course the quad-exhaust pipes. Although this show car wore massive 21-inch AMG wheels, expect 19-inchers on the production version.
Lending their support are heavily bolstered sport seats designed by AMG. Cabin materials are top grade, with napa leather and Alcantara suede being used heavily throughout.
Although the R63 on display wore the resurrected "Vision" name from the R-Class' concept from 2002, according to Rob Moran of Mercedes, the production version won't use the moniker.
What's Edmunds' Take?
It gladdens our enthusiast hearts to see AMG put its magic touch on everything. Who said a family car can't be cool? OK, a rich family's car. — John DiPietro
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