What's the exact error that you receive?
SQL is no longer included in the setup file along with a few other components. Makes me wonder what else they added since the file is the same size. Anyways, make sure you are connected to the Internet when doing the install. Also, make sure you are fully updated with .NET enabled before you start the install.
Since this version requires an Internet connection, it may be due to the fact that Servers come with IE Enhanced Security Configuration. Smart Screen Filter is different.
Load Server manager>Local Server>IE Enhanced Security Configuration (Right column). Change it to off and try again.
Server 2012R2 Essentials or Standard?