2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E63 AMG Wagon

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Wagon delivers powerful performance and sport-oriented interior features, as well as the expansive cargo space offered by a traditional wagon. The E63 AMG Wagon seats seven passengers in three rows. With the third-row seat folded down, the E63 Wagon offers 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 68.9 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded down. Its upscale interior comes equipped with a number of features designed by AMG, Mercedes' in-house sport tuner, including Nappa leather seats with Alcantara cloth inserts, front sport seats with side bolsters, an ergonomic sport steering wheel, brushed stainless steel sport pedals with black rubber pads, and an AMG instrument cluster. For entertainment, the E63 AMG Wagon features a 12-speaker, 510-watt Harman Kardon audio system with a 6-CD/DVD changer, HD digital radio, speed-sensitive volume, and an MP3 input jack. Also standard is an updated version of the COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system, with a 7-inch screen and a central dial controller, which drivers can use to control the audio, climate control, and navigation systems. Other standard features for '09 include Sirius satellite radio with NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic, a power tilt/slide sunroof, Bluetooth, four-zone climate control with rear-seat controls, and electronic cruise control.

A hand-built 6.2-liter V8 engine powers the '09 E63 AMG Wagon. The V8 produces 507 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque at 6,800 rpm, driving the Wagon from 0 to 60 in a brisk 4.3 seconds. The engine connects to a seven-speed AMG 7G-tronic automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, so drivers can manually shift gears when desired. The big V8 posts fuel economy numbers of 12/18 mpg. The E63 AMG Wagon rides on an AMG-calibrated Airmatic Semi-Active Air Suspension, which adjusts the air springs' tuning automatically to ensure optimal handling and a comfortable ride. Exterior features include an AMG grille and fascia, headlights, side skirts, and a rear bumper, as well as a sport exhaust system. The E63 AMG Wagon rides on 18-inch, five-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels with all-season performance tires.

By R. Feeman