Updated Mercedes-AMG GT range scores key innovation features
THE powerful and distinctive AMG GT range, the undisputed king of Mercedes-AMG performance models, has been significantly updated for 2020, as innovations flow from the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé to the feisty two-door models.
The updates will apply to Coupé and Roadster variants covering the GT S, GT C and GT R models, with all models in the range receiving a new centre console, with AMG Drive Unit controls placed in a stylised V8 arrangement.
A new AMG Performance steering wheel includes a rotary controller for quick and intuitive switching between drive modes, plus a second controller allowing the driver to nominate two performance shortcuts that can easily be toggled during performance driving.
It ensures the driver has no need to take their eyes off the road or track ahead, but should they need to glance at the dash instruments, they’ll find a new fully digital and customisable 12.3-inch cluster.
It sits alongside a 10.25-inch media display that includes both Apple and Google smartphone integration. A front-mounted camera has been added, while Traffic Sign Assist displays relevant road speed limits.
New LED headlights, alloy wheels and paint colours add an updated appearance, while the addition of the clever Mercedes me Connect system allows the driver to control several key functions and view relevant vehicle data and service information via an app.
For 2020, the Mercedes-AMG GT S Coupé comes with a 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 connected to a 7G-DCT seven-speed auto sending outputs of 384kW and 670Nm to the rear wheels.
Standard features include heated and electric AMG sports seats in Nappa leather, an the AMG Performance steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, cruise control with active distance assist, and a 10-speaker Burmester sound system with a total 640-watt output.
Navigation with dynamic route guidance can be found on the 10.25-inch high-resolution centre screen, along with the AMG Track Pace system that logs and downloads data from racetrack driving sessions.
It also includes AMG ride control suspension, electronic limited-slip differential, selectable exhaust system, high-performance composite braking system with red brake calipers, a retractable rear aerofoil, and a hands-free sensor to open the boot lid.
Staggered 19 and 20-inch AMG alloy wheels in matte black with a high-sheen finish also feature, as does a full suite of safety systems including blind spot assist, lane keep assist and the Pre-SAFE accident anticipation system.
Step up to the GT C Coupé and Roadster, and you’ll add AMG performance seats, black micro-fibre for the Performance steering wheel, climatised seats with heating and ventilation, and 19/20-inch five twin-spoke alloy wheels in titanium grey.
The AMG Dynamic Plus package adds dynamic engine and transmission mounts, as well as tautly tuned suspension and a specific steering tune, complemented by AMG rear axle steering.
Outputs from the 4.0-litre V8 jump to 410kW and 680Nm for the GT C Coupé and Roadster, while the Roadster incorporates a fabric soft-top roof with fabric roof lining, as well as roadster-specific features including neck-level heating and a draught-stop.
The GT R Coupé remains the ultimate expression of two-door performance in the Mercedes-AMG range, extracting an impressive 430kW and 700Nm from the twin-turbo V8.
In addition to the standard specification of the GT C Coupé, the GT R adds the AMG Interior Night package which highlights key trim features in high-gloss black, the interior piano lacquer package, Nappa/DINAMICA upholstery and seat heating.
A weight-saving carbon-fibre roof, static rear aerofoil, sport tyres and eye-catching yellow brake calipers complete a visually stunning and awe-inspiring package.
The new Mercedes-AMG GT range will join local showrooms this month, with prices starting from $311,142 for the GT S Coupé, $329,843 for the GT C Coupé, $355,242 for the GT C Roadster and $361,042 for the GT R Coupé. All prices are plus on-roads.