At the Monterey Car Week, Mercedes revealed the much-awaited second version of the AMG GT sportscar. Although the Affalterbach Porsche 911 competitor has an evolutionary approach to appearance, it offers better comfort and functionality thanks to an available 2+2 configuration. The new GT comes with the most recent in AMG performance and chassis technology, including a standard variable all-wheel-drive system, but it is only available in coupe form, leaving open-air driving to the technically similar SL roadster.
Despite every component of the bodywork having undergone a revision, the new GT is still easily recognisable. The Panamericana grille on the furious face has a glossy black extension beneath that is evocative of the previous Black Series. The headlights have gentler contours, and a trim piece now connects the compact taillights to the active rear spoiler. The model comes with 20-inch wheels as standard, although alternative 21-inch alloy wheels are also offered.
The proportions are better balanced than previously, but the broad, prominent rear shoulders appear even larger, giving off 911 vibes. This is because the new AMG GT has a wheelbase that has been increased by 70 mm (2.8 inches) and is 182 mm (7.2 inches) longer than the previous model, measuring 4,728 mm (186.1 inches). In addition, the new generation is 66 mm (2.5 inches) taller and 45 mm (1.8 inches) broader than the previous model.
The AMG GT is built on a revolutionary construction consisting of aluminium, steel, magnesium, and fibre composites (glass and carbon), which frees up additional space for the 2+2 layout and a bigger boot but has recognisable appearances and proportions.
Interior-wise, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 11.9-inch infotainment screen are carried over from the SL's dashboard. The AMG Performance steering wheel and bucket seats with integrated headrests and optional ventilation create a luxurious but athletic environment. The back seat appears fairly small, as in most 2+2 models, and can only fit children or people up to 1.5 m (4.9 ft) tall.
In order to comply with Euro 7 emission standards, the biturbo 4.0-litre V8 engine has been modified with increased power and torque. The vehicle will be offered at debut in two V8-powered configurations. The entry-level 55 has a maximum speed of 295 km/h (183 mph), 469 horsepower (350 kW / 476 PS), and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. This allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 3.9 seconds, matching the SL. With 577 horsepower (430 kW/ 585 PS) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque, the more powerful GT 63 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 3.2 seconds and has a peak speed of 315 km/h (195.7 mph).
The 9-speed AMG Speedshift automatic, now placed behind the engine and having a wet starting clutch in place of a torque converter, is the only transmission offered for the sports car. The GT now comes standard with the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system, unlike its rear-wheel-drive predecessor. AMG Active Ride Control suspension with active roll stabilisation, an electronically controlled rear-locking differential, active rear-axle steering, and active aerodynamics are additional technological delights included in the standard kit.
In the first half of 2024, the new Mercedes-AMG GT is anticipated to arrive in the US. Although the price has not yet been disclosed, the sportscar is anticipated to cost more than the comparable SL roadster.
