Second-generation Mercedes-AMG GT joins the SL with V8 power, standard all-wheel drive and fresh tech.
It’s been a long time coming, but Mercedes-AMG has finally unveiled its second-generation GT as its new flagship model. Alongside a fresh chassis, standard all-wheel drive system and a comprehensive cabin update, the model has also received a new naming system, with 55 and 63 variants available at launch. Pricing and availability for the new Mercedes-AMG GT coupe is yet to be announced, but expect first customer cars to hit the road in 2024.
While the GT’s formula remains familiar, Mercedes-AMG has increased focus on everyday useability, with a 2+2 rear seat configuration now available as an optional extra. Rear-axle steering, variable all-wheel drive and even split folding rear seats help make it a more viable everyday car, but AMG aims to ensure this doesn’t come at the cost of its dynamic edge.
Unlike some models in AMG’s current range, the new GT has retained a V8, with both iterations featuring the marque’s excellent 4-litre twin-turbocharged M178. The GT 63 range-topper produces a strong 430kW and 800Nm for a 3.2sec 0-100km/h time and 315km/h top speed, with the GT 55 a fair way behind with 350kW, 700Nm and a 3.9sec 0-100km/h sprint – the original GT managed a quicker 3.8sec sprint in base-level form, while the new GT 63 matches the ultra exclusive GT Black Series for acceleration.
In both variants, AMG has applied a new oil pan, repositioned the intercooler and optimised inlet and outlet ports, with the 63 receiving an ECU tweak and an increase in boost pressure for its higher output. Power is sent to the tarmac via a wet clutch 9-speed automatic transmission and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential as standard, with the variable all-wheel drive system allowing 100 per cent of torque to be sent to the rear axle.
Under its freshly sculpted body is double-wishbone suspension front and rear, now with anti-squat, anti-dive control and hydraulic active anti-roll bars, with the adaptive dampers also hydraulically controlled. A set of 20-inch wheels are fitted as standard (21-inch items are available as an option), wrapped in 295-section front and 305-section rear tyres, with 390mm 6-piston, 360mm single-piston composite brake units nestled within.
In the pursuit of rigidity and low weight, AMG says the GT is constructed from a lightweight composite aluminium structure, incorporating steel, magnesium and fibre composites. While these high-tech underpinnings might save weight, the GT’s extra tech certainly doesn’t, bringing total weight to 1970kg in both forms.
To improve efficiency and reduce lift, the GT features numerous active aerodynamic elements, including a two-stage system in the intakes. Slats in the lower and upper air intakes remain closed under everyday driving conditions for efficiency and aerodynamic balance, only opening under load to ensure proper cooling. A retractable rear spoiler also deploys at speed for improved stability, with a unique device in the underbody able to lower by 40mm at speed to create a Venturi effect, decreasing front axle lift.
Design is familiar, with a long wheelbase, short overhangs, those trademark power ridges and balanced overall propositions carried across from the original. Surfacing has been cleaned up over the previous car, though, with modernised lighting units front and rear also helping to separate it from the original.
The interior has received a similar overhaul, with AMG’s new portrait 11.9-inch MBUX infotainment system, 64-colour ambient lighting and LCD-screen equipped AMG steering wheel part of the package.
Mercedes-AMG is yet to announce final pricing and availability details for the new GT, but first cars are expected to roll out of Affalterbach in early 2024. Stay tuned for updates.