Mercedes managed something quite different for its Chicago unveiling of the AMG versions of the R-class and the
ML – an ice rink, complete with hockey players and figure skaters. Perhaps to drive home the “all-weather
performance” message, or maybe to bond with the Winter Olympics. Who knows?
In any event, the AMG
version of the R-class was well worth the pre-unveiling ice capades, according to Chris Paukert.
Featuring
the first engine ever developed completely by AMG from the ground up, a 6.3-liter, 503 hp monster with 465 ft-lb of
torque, the reborn R63 AMG will hustle from 0-60 mph in 5 seconds. The new engine has a silicon-aluminum block, four
valves per cylinder, and variable valve timing, and feeds the power to a seven-speed automatic transmission controlled
by either a Direct Select lever on the column, or by F1-style button shifters on the steering wheel. The driver can
select from Sport, Comfort or Manual shift modes.
The AMG appearance kit includes front and rear fascia
modifications, a new AMG grille, AMG side skirts, smoked taillights, and chromed dual exhausts.
The interior
features leather AMG sport seats with Alcantara inserts, stainless pedals with rubber studs, a special instrument
cluster, a leather AMG wheel, and AMG door sills. The R63 retains the six-passenger seating of the standard R-class.
The all-wheel drive R63 AMG comes with an AIRMATIC height-adjustable suspension and 19-inch wheels sporting
295/45 tires. Lots of pictures after the jump.