Mercedes-Benz Vision R63 set for Frankfurt Show

[Variance]

Link: http://www.autoindex.org/news.plt?no=1202

Mercedes-Benz Vision R63 set for Frankfurt Show


Mercedes-Benz has issued the following press release:

At the 61st Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), Mercedes-AMG is presenting the "Vision R 63 AMG", a particularly dynamic, near-series interpretation of the new Mercedes-Benz R-Class, the Grand Sports Tourer. Powered by the all-new, completely independently developed AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with an output of 375 kW/510 hp and a maximum torque of 630 newton metres, the "Vision R 63 AMG" represents an unprecedented combination of unique, sporty driving pleasure, outstanding spaciousness and top-class comfort for up to six occupants.
Alongside the series-production version of the new Mercedes-Benz R-Class, whose short wheelbase variant is celebrating its world premiere at the show, the "Vision R 63 AMG" with a long wheelbase, an avant-garde design and an extravagantly styled interior, will appear in the role of a sporty and dynamic trendsetter. This Mercedes-AMG interpretation of the Grand Sports Tourer confirms its exceptional position in the automotive market right from the very first glance. Externally, numerous details distinguish the muscular showcar from the series-production R-Class. The bodywork of the "Vision R 63 AMG" is resplendent in "dark titanium grey", whilst the trim is in matt titanium grey.

Newly designed front and rear aprons in the typical AMG look, bi-xenon headlamps with titanium-coated reflectors and the two twin chromed tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system convey unmistakable dynamism. Massive, matt titanium-painted 21-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a 5-spoke design with 265/40 R 21 wide-base tyres all-round lend a striking effect to the side view of the almost 5.20-metre long Grand Sports Tourer. Behind the spokes of the AMG light-alloy wheels it is possible to discern the generously dimensioned AMG high-performance braking system, which ensures extremely short braking distances.

Sports-car performance from the "Vision R 63 AMG"

The new AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine provides the performance characteristics of a thoroughbred sports car. With an output of 375 kW/510 hp and 630 newton metres of torque, the newly-developed, large-displacement naturally aspirated AMG eight-cylinder engine makes for a supremely assured and dynamic driving experience. The "Vision R 63 AMG" accelerates to 100 km/h in approximately five seconds and has a maximum speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). Power is transferred by an AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic transmission with steering wheel gearshift paddles and a DIRECT SELECT shift lever. A combination of permanent all-wheel drive with a torque distribution of 40:60 between the front and rear axles, an AMG sports suspension based on the AIRMATIC air suspension with Adaptive Damping System ensures the greatest possible handling safety and - at the touch of a button - allows a dynamic or more sporty style of driving.

The interior of the "Vision R 63 AMG" is impressively spacious, with a stylish colour scheme and luxurious appointments. Two-tone nappa leather, AMG sports seats in the first two seat rows, the AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles and the AMG instrument cluster convey sporty flair. Matching the exterior of the AMG showcar, most of the decorative trim in the interior features a matt titanium grey finish - complemented by trim in black piano lacquer on the front centre console. Thanks to a DVD player, passengers in the second and third rows are able to enjoy their own programme of entertainment in the "Vision R 63 AMG". Four 7-inch TFT flat-screen monitors are integrated into the head restraints of the front seats. For optimum convenience and a relaxed journey there are two folding tables for the individual centre seats, as well as the multi-zone THERMOTRONIC climate control system which ensures a pleasant interior climate for all six occupants.

[pow]

That's exactly what we need... a 510 horsepower minivan. To be fair, though, it does look a lot better than the standard version, and it's very similar to the Grand Sports Tourer concept. I hope privacy glass isn't mandatory... that's too minivan'ish and not, um, "grand tourer" enough.

[Robert Hall]

Cool...this is the vehicle I saw the prototype of at Starbucks here in Denver last month.... California plates, same fascia, same wheels and quad tailpipes. Edited September 8, 2005 by moltar