Targeted at a unique and discerning group of drivers, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Wagon combines a high-powered engine with the functionality of a seven-passenger wagon, and adds a number of innovative and luxury-oriented features to the mix as well.
At the top of the list of the E63 AMG Wagon's many notable features, the throaty, AMG-built 6.3-liter V8 engine produces an impressive 507 horsepower, which drives the Wagon from 0 to 60 in just 4.3 seconds. Of course, mileage suffers with that much horsepower, ranging from about 12 mpg in the city to 18 mpg on the highway.
The engine links to an AMG-enhanced seven-speed automatic transmission, which changes gears up to 50 percent faster than the standard E-Class transmission, according to Mercedes-Benz, and automatically downshifts during braking. In addition, the transmission comes with a Manual mode feature, which enables drivers to manually upshift and downshift using aluminum paddles mounted behind the steering-wheel spokes.
To ensure a smooth ride and responsive handling, the E63 AMG Wagon comes equipped with an Airmatic Semi-Active Air Suspension system, which automatically adjusts the spring-struts, depending on the road surface. Drivers can also select one of four ride modes, from soft to sporty.
An Electronic Stability Program monitors steering and braking to keep the E63 Wagon stable and balanced for aggressive driving, while antilock brakes include Brake Assist, which provides maximum available braking in an emergency situation. AMG-enhanced power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes come standard on the E63 Wagon.
The Wagon comes with three rows of seats to carry a maximum of seven passengers. However, drivers can fold both the second- and third-row seats if they need additional cargo space. With the third-row seat folded, the E63 Wagon provides about 24 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to nearly 69 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.
Exterior features for E63 AMG Wagon include an AMG-designed front air dam with mesh air intakes, a rear apron, and polished chrome exhaust tips, while luxury-oriented interior features include a power tilt/slide tinted-glass sunroof, AMG heated front sport seats, AMG premium leather upholstery, a leather-trimmed AMG sport steering wheel, Black Birdseye Maple wood trim, and a Harman Kardon audio system with a six-disc CD changer.
Window curtain airbags, the Tele-Aid emergency assist program, and the Pre-Safe system, which closes windows, tensions seat belts, and adjusts the front seats in the event of an impending accident, also come standard on the E63 AMG Wagon.