Cars.com Videos: 2009 VW Jetta TDI, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, More

2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI: Forget all your misconceptions about diesel cars, the Jetta TDI is a diesel that’s as clean as a gas engine, Joe Wiesenfelder says.

2009 Hyundai Elantra: If you want a car with cargo room but an SUV is just too big for you, Bill Jackson says you should consider the Elantra Touring, a hatchback with good ride quality.

2009 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG: Based on the entry-level C-Class, the C63 has an aggressive-looking exterior that’s backed by a 6.2-liter V-8 engine, Mike Hanley says.

2009 Ford Mustang: Mike takes a look at the last year of the current Mustang. It has an optional glass roof on some trims and offers modern styling cues that mix well with this Ford’s retro look.

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2008 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG: A Really Fast C-Class

Just as Mercedes dealers are preparing for the arrival of the new C-Class in early August, we hear word of the car’s more powerful sibling, the C63 AMG. AMG is the designation the company gives to its most powerful models, just like BMW’s M and Audi’s S and RS designations. The C63 is so named because a 6.3-liter V-8 producing 457 hp is housed under its hood. 

That gets the new C63 to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds, though buyers will have to accept the fact that the C63 comes with a seven-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles on the steering wheel, not the standard — and often preferred — stick shift. There are three modes for adjustable shifting between Sport, Comfort and Manual. The Sport mode will shift gears 30% faster than Comfort mode and 50% faster than the default Manual mode.   

Enthusiast drivers will also appreciate an adjustable electronic stability system that can be turned off completely or set to Sport mode, which allows for safely pushing the car closer to its limits.

Of course, the C63 also has a beefed-up look to match its enhanced performance. The hood is larger, with two “power domes,” and both the front and rear bumpers are more aggressive than the standard C-Class. There are also available 19-inch wheels and standard 18-inchers. Inside, the seats are of the sport variety, and there’s even a different steering wheel aimed at enthusiast drivers. All this work should make the C63 formidable competition for the Audi RS4 and upcoming BMW M3. We won’t know for sure until early 2008, when the C63 will go on sale. For now, check out the photo gallery.

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Photo Gallery