As with the identically powered ML63 AMG, thrust is routed through all four wheels via an electronically controlled all-wheel drive system and traction
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| As with the identically powered ML63 AMG, thrust is routed through all four wheels via an electronically controlled all-wheel drive system and traction control. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada) |
control. The permanently engaged system has a torque distribution of 40:60, front to rear, allowing the car to maintain sporty handling characteristics. This is different from the regular R-Class, which incorporates a less sporting 50:50 split. Between the differentials and the engine is Mercedes' AMG Speedshift automatic gearbox, which features a manual mode that can be operated via steering wheel paddles or through the shifter gate.
As you might imagine, AMG's engineers must have faced some kind of dilemma in transforming the R-Class into a performance machine. While performance sedans, coupes and roadsters are common ground to AMG, a crossover is new turf altogether. To solve issues of stability and handling which
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| A full valance kit with quad exhaust tips makes for a sportier look all around. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz Canada) |
appear on performance-tuned models, an adapted version of the Airmatic air suspension system was installed, furthered by M-B's Adaptive Damping System to provide varying amounts of firmness. This will ensure that when passengers aren't being pinned to their seat from extreme g-forces, they'll be riding in the utmost comfort. Upgraded stopping power is also added to the bill, allowing the heavy R to better cope during enthusiastic driving.
From the outside, you'd be hard-pressed to find any evidence that the Vision R63 is anything other than a regular R-Class with standard AMG treatment. A full valance kit with quad exhaust tips makes for a sportier look all around, while bright blue bi-xenon headlamps give contrast to the titanium-gray theme of the body, matte trim and 265/40 R 21 inch AMG alloy wheels.
