2023 Mercedes-AMG GT Dazzled Crowd at Monterey Car Week
The new SL-inspired AMG GT will rival the Porsche 911 V8.
Mercedes cleverly targeted the Porsche 911 in 2014 by introducing the AMG GT, and now, with the next generation arriving, competition is growing. The second iteration appears poised to be an even more challenging contender against the legendary 911.
Having a shared platform with the AMG-designed SL, the latest model adopts a 2+2 configuration with compact rear seats, mirroring the setup of most 911 models. This enhanced practicality is seemingly Mercedes' strategy to convince customers to opt for Porsche's alternative.
2023 Mercedes-AMG GT Preview
Design
The updated appearance represents a progression from the initial GT model, though with an elongated wheelbase, a front design aligning with Mercedes' present style, and a softly cascading roofline at the back, facilitating ample rear headspace and an unexpectedly spacious trunk. In fact, the boot is notably vast, containing a volume surpassing typical superminis - quantified at 321 litres by Mercedes, extendable to a peak of 675 litres. The view from the rear three-quarter perspective is particularly assertive, showcasing the brawny rear wheel arches of the AMG GT.
Various aero techniques are integrated into the layout, encompassing dynamic air features at the vehicle's nose and a back spoiler that activates as the car achieves greater velocities. Nevertheless, a static wing fashioned from either plastic or carbon fibre will be provided by Mercedes.
Powertrains
The AMG GT offers a selection of twin-turbo V8 petrol engines, each coupled with a nine-speed dual-clutch transmission (unfortunately, a manual choice is not in the books) and all-wheel drive capability. Rolling out first is the AMG GT 63 4MATIC+, flexing a solid 577bhp and a hefty 800Nm of torque, including launch control prowess, resulting in a 0-62mph acceleration in merely 3.2 seconds.
Soon after, we will be graced by the AMG GT 53 4MATIC+, boasting 469bhp and 700Nm. This speedster will effortlessly complete the standard acceleration run in 3.9 seconds. Maximum speeds attainable by these two powerplants are pegged at 195mph and 183mph, respectively.
Mercedes has fully embraced advanced chassis technology with the AMG GT as it transitions from its traditional rear-wheel drive setup to the latest iteration of AMG's innovative all-wheel drive system. This sophisticated system boasts a rear axle that's under constant drive and a dynamically adjustable distribution of power to the front axle. This allows the vehicle to seamlessly shift between a rear-wheel drive mode and a flexible 50:50 power distribution when road conditions necessitate. The car features adaptable dampers in conjunction with rear-axle maneuvering, an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential, and a semi-active hydraulic-based anti-roll mechanism. This cutting-edge system also takes charge of the optionally available 'lifter' feature, which elevates the car by a maximum of 30mm to navigate over speed bumps and steeper slopes.
Interior
Within the cabin, the new AMG GT receives a practical technological enhancement from another car in the Mercedes lineup, incorporating a 12.3-inch digital display for its instruments and a vertically oriented 12.8-inch touchscreen system for infotainment purposes. While an AMG Performance Steering Wheel will be included by default, there exists room for individualisation, encompassing interior aspects like specialised AMG Performance seats. Additionally, possibilities for enhancing the chassis, such as the introduction of carbon-ceramic brakes, are anticipated to arrive next year.
Price
Mercedes is yet to release final details, and pricing remains undisclosed. However, considering the brand's upward momentum and enhanced flexibility of the latest seating arrangement, a notable uptick from present stats is foreseeable, possibly commencing around £125,000.
In contrast to the present AMG GT, a Roadster is absent in this iteration, now occupied by the SL. Nevertheless, Mercedes intends to craft a GT3 racing model and even more potent on-road iterations, conceivably integrating hybrid advancements to propel total power beyond 700bhp.
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Source and Images: AutoExpress UK