The second generation of the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé is the new top model in the Mercedes-AMG range. It combines highly dynamic driving characteristics with increased suitability for everyday use. High-tech components such as the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with semi-active roll stabilisation, standard rear-axle steering and active aerodynamics sharpen the active driving profile. The sporty coupé is also taking its output to the road for the first time with the fully variable all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC+. Combined with the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, this results in a driving experience of the highest level. The exclusive AMG sports car architecture with an elaborate composite aluminium body structure allows the car to be configured as a 2+2 seater. For a sports car in this class, this means a very generous interior for passengers and plenty of space for their luggage. As the fifth independent model series after SLS, the first generation of the two-door GT, GT 4-door Coupé and SL, the new Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé once again demonstrates the high technological expertise of the Affalterbach development team.
The extended dimension concept, with optional 2+2 seats, offered designers a whole new range of exterior design possibilities. The long wheelbase, the short overhangs and the steeply inclined windscreen give the new AMG GT a compact and powerful appearance. The well-balanced proportions with an exciting greenhouse, voluminous wheel arches and expressive front view signal the appearance of a powerful sports car that is also suitable for everyday use. The side view is characterised by flowing surfaces with no ribbing or edges, right down to the recessed door handles. The expressively sculpted rear shoulder section gives the car its extra sports car appeal. Almost flush with the body, the light-alloy wheels emphasise power and dynamism. The active rear spoiler is seamlessly integrated into the large tailgate.
The deep and wide AMG-specific radiator grille creates a dominant presence. The distinctive headlights with DIGITAL LIGHT as standard underline the car’s unmistakable character. The daytime running lights with the characteristic three ‘light dots’ light signet add to the recognition factor. Precise graphics in the darkened interior of the headlamps with brushed surfaces underline the Performance luxury design. The lower air intake gives the front additional visual width. The sporty front end is rounded off by the powerful power domes on the bonnet.
The compact greenhouse, with its fastback silhouette and large tailgate, allows for a low, rounded rear with an active, retractable spoiler. The precise design of the wheel arches contrasts with the clean, full surfaces. The pronounced shoulder gives the vehicle a perfect balance of elegance and sportiness. Precisely embedded in the rear design are the low-profile horizontal LED rear lights with clear and precise graphics. The dark LED rear lights form a perfect symbiosis with the headlights thanks to the three-dimensional ‘light dots’ light signet. They come standard with flashing running lights and the ‘coming home/leaving home’ animation. The expressive rear diffuser with integrated twin tailpipe trims completes the dynamic design at the rear.
The interior design of the new AMG GT draws on AMG’s high-performance sports car genes, which have been skilfully translated into the digital world and systematically developed further. Materials, workmanship and attention-to-detail underline the car’s desire for luxury in the interior. The cockpit design, right down to the central display in the centre console, focuses on the driver and creates a harmonious overall impression. The fully digital instrument cluster is integrated into a three-dimensional visor.
The optional 2+2 seating concept offers improved spaciousness and plenty of room in the cabin. The rear seats are more practical for everyday use and can accommodate people up to 1.5 metres tall. The large EASY PACK tailgate with HANDSFREE ACCESS function makes loading and unloading easy. The rear seat backrests are folding for the option of extra space.
The centre console flows into the lower part of the instrument panel. The 11.9-inch multimedia touchscreen is the functional and visual centrepiece. The portrait format offers significant advantages, particularly for navigation, as well as more ergonomic freedom. Brilliant views on the LCD screens make it easier to control vehicle and comfort functions. The driver’s display and the central display are fully coordinated. The appearance of the instrument cluster can be personalised with individually selectable main views. The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system is intuitive to use and is self-learning. It offers extensive AMG-specific content in five display styles. Exclusive menu items such as ‘AMG Performance’ or ‘AMG TRACK PACE’ underline the sporty character.
In the AMG Performance menu, the driver can access a wealth of data at the touch of a button: from power, torque and lateral acceleration to the current vehicle status, including tyre pressure and fluid temperatures. The driver can also view the wheel angles on the front and rear wheel axles. Using the buttons on the control panel below the central display, the driver can select various functions such as media volume, assistance systems or vehicle functions.
The optional head-up display shows relevant information and actions in three dimensions in the real-life driving situation and environment. There is also a choice of different styles. Depending on equipment or personal taste, the ambient lighting frames the exclusive interior in 64 different colours. The ‘discreet’ display style is coupled with the ambient light. There are a total of seven background colours to choose from, each of which is assigned to one of the 64 colours. These include two exclusive AMG background colours.
One of the many interior highlights is the sculptural seat design of the standard, electrically adjustable AMG sports seats. Perfect ergonomics and progressive stitching and seam patterns complete the symbiosis of high-tech, performance and luxury. The wide range of different upholstery options also reflects the range of options from comfortable to performance-oriented. There is a choice of single or two-tone Nappa leather, the particularly sophisticated MANUFAKTUR Nappa leather upholstery with diamond stitching or the sporty combination of Nappa leather with MICROCUT microfibre and contrast stitching in yellow or red. Inflatable air cushions and three massage programmes in the multicontour driver and front passenger seats are available as an option for extra comfort on long journeys. The ENERGIZING Plus package combines seat functions such as massage and different lighting moods to create stimulating or relaxing comfort programmes.
The standard sports seats alone offer outstanding comfort and lateral support. The optional AMG Performance seats are even sportier, with integrated headrests and air vents in the backrest. In Sport, Sport+ and RACE modes, the side bolsters of the optional multicontour seats automatically tighten to provide optimum lateral support at all times.
The three rounded double spokes of the standard AMG Performance steering wheel combine stability with lightness. The steering wheel rim with a flattened bottom comes in in Nappa or Nappa leather/microfibre MICROCUT and is heated as standard. A sensor mat is also included to detect hands-on. If the driver removes their hands from the steering wheel for a certain period of time, a warning cascade is started which, if the driver remains inactive, activates Emergency Stop Assist.
The two standard AMG steering wheel buttons feature intuitive operation, bright, colourful LCD displays and modern icons. They can be used to control important driving functions and the driving modes. The selected setting is shown on the display, which is directly integrated into the respective button. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission can also be shifted precisely and quickly manually via the aluminium gearshift paddles located on the left and right behind the steering wheel rim.
The intelligent material mix of aluminium, steel, magnesium, and fibre composites enables the highest possible stiffness at low weight. Optimised material cross-sections and sophisticated component shapes create space for the required comfort and safety features, the sophisticated technology and the large luggage compartment volume. Further targeted measures include the aluminium thrust field on the underbody and functionally integrated struts at the front and rear. The instrument panel made of magnesium and the lock bridge made of a fibre composite material with a mixture of glass fibres and carbon also demonstrate the engineers’ striving for the best possible material mix.
A key development focus for the new AMG GT Coupé was high aero balance, specifically, a perfect balance between low drag and reduced lift. Here, the sporty coupé benefits from the extensive active aerodynamic elements at the front and rear. All flow-optimising elements are seamlessly integrated into the exterior design. The aerodynamics of the AMG GT Coupé meet the complex requirements for driving stability, drag, cooling and wind noise. The successful aerobalance guarantees optimum driving stability at high speeds without compromising dynamic handling characteristics.
A technical highlight in the aero development is the two-part, active AIRPANEL air control system. The first part operates with vertical louvres hidden behind the lower air intake in the front apron. Located behind the upper air intake, the second part has horizontal louvres. Normally, all louvres are closed. This position reduces drag and allows the air to be directed towards the underbody. This further reduces forward lift. The louvres do not open to allow maximum cooling air to flow to the heat exchangers until certain temperatures are reached on predefined components and the demand for cooling air is particularly high (the second system only above 180 km/h).
The active aerodynamic element, concealed in the underbody in front of the engine, also contributes to improved handling. This carbon profile is an exclusive, patent-protected AMG development. It reacts to the AMG driving modes and automatically lowers it by approximately 40 millimetres at a speed above 80 km/h. This creates what is known as the Venturi effect, which additionally sucks the car to the road surface and reduces the lift on the front axle. The driver feels this positively in the steering: The new AMG GT Coupé is even more precise when cornering and has even greater lane stability.
Another active component is the extendible rear spoiler, which is seamlessly integrated into the boot lid. It changes its position depending on driving conditions. The control software takes numerous parameters into account, including driving speed, longitudinal and lateral acceleration, and steering speed. The spoiler adopts five different angles above 80 km/h to either optimise driving stability or reduce drag.
An aerodynamics package is also available as an option. It includes additional front flicks on the outer air intakes and wheel arches. At the rear, the airflow is optimised with side flicks on the rear apron, a larger diffuser attachment and a fixed rear wing. All in all, the aerodynamics package reduces the lift on the front axle and increases the downforce on the rear axle.
At market launch, the new AMG GT Coupé will be launched with two performance levels of the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine. The engines are assembled entirely by hand according to the ‘one man, one engine’ principle at the company’s site in Affalterbach. In the top model GT 63 4MATIC+ (combined fuel consumption: 14.1 l/100 km, combined CO₂ emissions: 319 g/km)[2], the engine has 430 kW (585 PS) of output and a maximum torque of 800 Nm over a broad engine speed range of 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 3.2 seconds, with a top speed of 315 km/h. In the GT 55 4MATIC+ (combined fuel consumption: 14.1 l/100 km, combined CO₂ emissions: 319 g/km)[2], the V8 engine has 350 kW (476 PS) of output and 700 Nm of maximum torque. The car goes from zero to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 295 km/h.
For use in the AMG GT Coupé, the engine received numerous modifications compared to the previous model: a new oil pan, repositioned intercooler, and active crankcase ventilation. The intake and exhaust ducts were optimised for even more effective gas exchange and the exhaust gas routing for the catalytic converter box and petrol particulate filter was enlarged. Compared to the AMG GT 55 4MATIC+, the developers achieved the added performance of the AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ primarily through higher boost pressure and greater airflow as well as modified engine software. All in all, the eight-cylinder engine delivers impressive performance with powerful thrust in all engine speed ranges, combined with maximum efficiency for low fuel consumption and emissions.
The engine is assembled entirely by hand. At the AMG engine plant in Affalterbach, the ‘one man, one engine’ principle is combined with Industry 4.0 manufacturing methods. Industry 4.0 reflects the latest findings in ergonomics, the flow of goods, quality assurance, sustainability, and efficiency. Smart production is characterized by maximum flexibility, transparency, and high efficiency. In doing so, it uses digital technologies to safeguard and improve the quality of engines and production processes.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9 G transmission combines an emotional shifting experience with extremely short shifting times and is specially designed to meet the requirements of the new AMG GT. A wet starting clutch replaces the torque converter. It reduces weight and, thanks to its lower mass inertia, optimises the response to accelerator commands, especially during sprinting and load changes.
Greater traction and driving stability: Fully variable all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC+
Both V8 models are equipped with the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive as standard. The intelligent system combines the advantages of different drive concepts: The fully variable torque distribution on the front and rear axles enables the maximum balancing act between driving safety and traction in everyday driving and driving dynamics at the physical limit, even with the ESP® switch in the ON position. Drivers can enjoy maximum driving fun regardless of the surface conditions – with maximum driving stability. In the ESP® Sport and ESP® OFF modes, the all-wheel drive distribution is even more rear-dominant. The transition from rear to all-wheel drive and vice versa takes place continuously on the basis of a sophisticated matrix that integrates the control algorithms into the entire vehicle system architecture.
An electromechanically controlled clutch variably connects the permanently driven rear axle to the front axle. The best possible torque distribution is continuously calculated. The new coupé offers infinitely variable driving options ‑ from all-wheel drive with a power distribution of up to 50:50 on the front and rear axles to pure rear-wheel drive. In addition to traction and lateral dynamics, all-wheel drive also improves longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration. Drift mode makes it possible to turn the coupé into a rear-wheel drive over the entire speed range. The new AMG GT Coupé features a multi-link front axle with five control arms arranged entirely inside the rims. The independent wheel guide and wheel suspension elements enable high lateral acceleration with minimal impact on the steering system. The wheels on the rear axle are also guided by a five-link space construction.
To reduce the unsprung masses, all of the chassis control arms, steering knuckles and wheel carriers on the front and rear axles are made of forged aluminium. The multi-link concept guides each wheel with minimal elastic movements. The high camber and track stiffness not only enables high cornering speeds, it is also responsible for optimum road contact in the high cornering limit range. This is reflected in excellent lateral dynamics and driving stability at high speeds, as well as in the good-natured response to load changes (e.g. evasive manoeuvres or lane changes) and external influences (e.g. crosswind or bumps). A particularly direct connection between the shock absorber and the rear wheel carrier reduces vibrations and unwanted wheel load fluctuations. The independent wheel guide and wheel suspension elements enable high lateral acceleration with minimal impact on the steering system – which is also a comfort feature.
Then there’s the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with semi-active roll stabilisation. It was specially tuned for the AMG GT Coupé. The displacement dampers, which can be adjusted in rebound and compression, are additionally equipped with active, interconnected hydraulic elements. They replace the conventional torsion bar stabiliser. This technology reduces body roll and represents a wide range of driving modes. The hydraulic connection of the damper chambers on all four wheels is made via cables and the control valves inside the adaptive dampers.
The connection of the four struts and the pressure regulation of the pump and control valves allow a very wide roll spring rate with reduced roll movement. Figuratively speaking: Each torsion bar from zero to stiff can be represented automatically. This enhances everyday driving comfort by compensating for uneven road surfaces, even just on one side of the vehicle. The hydraulics also actively reduce roll loss when cornering at speed. The resulting high camber stiffness enables the coupé to steer with extreme precision.
When driving straight ahead, the system opens completely, depending on the driving mode and driving situation. The system compensates for one-sided obstructions that would otherwise result in rolling. Drivers and passengers enjoy a much more comfortable driving experience. Reduced rolling when cornering contributes to both comfort and driving dynamics. There is a greater spread between comfort and sport in terms of driving behaviour in the individual driving modes.
The basic principle of the suspension is that the compression and tension sides of the car’s individual dampers are linked. The pressure stage of the front left damper is connected to the rebound stage of the front right damper via a hydraulic line. It also connects to the pressure side of the rear left damper and the rebound of the rear right damper via a line across the vehicle. The other sides of the damping chambers are connected to each other via a second circuit in the same way. The simplified routing of the hydraulic lines each has the shape of an ‘H’.
In addition to interconnecting the dampers, the system also uses other components that are important to its functionality. The traction and pressure sides of the dampers are directly connected to each other via an electrically controlled 2/2-way valve known as the comfort valve. There is also a pressure accumulator attached to each of the damper pressure sides. Both circuits are also connected to a central pump. This ensures that the hydraulic system pressure can be adjusted in both circuits. The connection between the pump and the circuits is made via 2/2-way valves. Pressure sensors are integrated behind the valves to monitor the system pressure in the respective lines. The system pressure can be freely selected and with it the amount of roll support generated. The following applies: The higher the system pressure, the greater the expected roll stiffness.
The system is highly efficient, as it uses the vehicle’s kinetic energy to positively influence roll behaviour. The hydraulics of the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension also supply power to the optional lift system for the front axle. If required, the front of the car can be raised by 30 millimetres, making it easier, for example, to enter underground car parks or drive over railway sleepers. The lift system is operated via the central multimedia display or the AMG steering wheel buttons. Pressing the vehicle symbol on the control panel opens the relevant menu. Among other things, positions can be saved using GPS technology so that the front end automatically lifts up the next time it passes through the corresponding spots.
The new AMG GT comes standard with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential on the rear axle, which ensures outstanding traction and maximum driving safety in all driving conditions. It also improves driving stability when changing lanes, especially at high speeds. The system operates with a fully variable locking effect in both towing and pushing mode. It is perfectly tuned to all road friction coefficients and communicates constantly with other dynamic control units. For drift mode, there is a specially adapted control for the limited slip differential.
The new AMG GT Coupé is also equipped with active rear-axle steering as standard. Depending on the speed, the rear wheels either turn in the opposite direction (below 100 km/h) or in the same direction (above 100 km/h) as the front wheels. The system provides both agile and stable handling – characteristics that are in stark contrast without rear-axle steering. Other benefits include easier vehicle control at the limit and less steering effort due to the more direct steering ratio at the front.
The AMG high-performance composite braking system guarantees excellent deceleration values and precise control. It impresses with short braking distances, sensitive response, and high stability – even under extreme loads. Composite brake discs are particularly light: Driving dynamics and steering response benefit from the reduced unsprung masses. The brake disc (cast steel) and brake plug (aluminium) are connected with special pins. This design saves space that is used for even better brake cooling. The directional sinking is also new: In addition to weight savings and improved heat dissipation, this solution also scores points with a faster response in wet conditions and improved surface cleaning after braking.
The six AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes ‘Slippery’, ‘Comfort’, ‘Sport’, ‘Sport +’, ‘Individual’ and ‘RACE’ enable a wide range of vehicle characteristics from comfortable to dynamic. The individual driving modes offer a personalised driving experience that is precisely tailored to different driving conditions. As a feature of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes, the AMG GT models also feature AMG DYNAMICS. This integrated vehicle dynamics control extends the stabilising functions of ESP® to include agilising interventions in vehicle functions. When cornering at speed, for example, a brief brake intervention on the inside rear wheel generates a defined yaw torque around the vertical axis for spontaneous and precise steering. The range ranges from extremely stable to highly dynamic.
AMG TRACK PACE comes standard. The software is part of the MBUX infotainment system and records over 80 vehicle-specific data (e.g. speed, acceleration, steering angle, brake pedal actuation) ten times per second while driving over a defined route. The ‘Telemetry’ screen can display 40 parameters live, up to four at a time.
Lap and sector times are also displayed on the multi-media display, head-up display, and instrument cluster, along with additional training and analysis tools. The navigation system on the head-up display shows corner angles and braking points to help the driver find the best line. The line of a stored track can also be shown on the multimedia display with the MBUX augmented reality function. This allows the driver to improve their driving style, just like with a virtual instructor. Acceleration and deceleration values can also be measured and stored.
The equipment details and numerous options offer a wide range of customisation options to meet the most diverse customer requests – from sporty and dynamic to luxurious and elegant. These include eleven finish colours and eight new wheel designs. Five exterior design packages are available to further refine the look for more elegance or dynamism. AMG GT 55 4MATIC+ and AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ drive as standard on 20-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels. 21-inch wheels are also available as an alternative.
With the help of numerous sensors, cameras and radar, the driver assistance systems monitor traffic and the surroundings of the new coupé. If necessary, the intelligent helpers can intervene at lightning speed. Drivers are supported by numerous new or extended systems – in everyday situations, for example by distance control, steering and lane changing. In the event of danger, the systems help to react appropriately to an impending collision. A new display concept in the instrument cluster visualises the functionality of the systems.
The assistance display in the instrument cluster clearly and transparently shows how the driver assistance systems work in a full-screen view. Here, the driver can see the car, lanes, lane markings and other road users such as cars, lorries and two-wheelers in spatial abstraction. Based on this representation of the environment, the system status and functionality of the assistants are visualised. The new animated assistant display is based on a real-time 3D scene. This high-quality and dynamic display transparently shows how the driver assistance systems work in an augmented reality driving experience.
The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system makes it possible to use many Mercedes me connect digital services. Advantages include smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, hands-free set via Bluetooth connection and digital radio (DAB and DAB+). In connection with MBUX, customers have access to connectivity services such as live traffic information. Mercedes me connect makes the new AMG GT smarter overall: Additional functions can be used before and after driving or when out and about. All the user has to do is link the coupé to a Mercedes me account in the Mercedes me portal and accept the terms of use. Thanks to navigation with live traffic information and car-to-X communication, customers can drive with real-time traffic data. This allows drivers to avoid traffic jams efficiently and save valuable time. Connected vehicles use car-to-X communication to exchange information about traffic incidents.
