Got a €200,000 wad in your pocket and a burning desire to go racing? Step this way

1: It’s a *customer* racing car
That’s people like you and I. Hamilton, Bottas and the likes wouldn’t be bothered messing about at this level, but for those of us wanting to go racing, on a sensible budget (relatively speaking here) the Mercedes-AMG GT4 is the perfect solution. Just buy a fireproof romper suit. Hire a hot-shoe pro to share driving duties with. Get a team to help you out. Um, simple, right?

Just remember to stick your company’s stickers all over it and write all your weekend door-banging off as a ‘business expense’. Oh, and work off that belly. Nobody looks good in a racing suit with a paunch, even if you’re signing the cheques.

2: It taps into the Next Big Thing in motor racing
That’s after GT3, of course, which has gotten a little bit expensive, even in the moneyed world of motorsport. The GT4 category fixes that, with the promise of production-based race cars that cost a few hundred thousand Dollars, Euros, Pounds or whatever other currency you work in.

Along with this Mercedes-AMG GT4 - Affalterbach’s take on the genre - McLaren, Porsche, BMW, Audi and many more will sell you a competitive GT4 car should you knock on their door with a suitably sized brick of cash.

3: You might have to wait a bit if you want one
Buying a Mercedes-AMG GT4 couldn’t be simpler. There’s even a brochure. So while you can’t just stroll into a Mercedes-Benz dealership and buy one, nor find one on AMG’s online configurator, it’s as easy as filling out a form, then mentally practising your apex entry/exit points.

Expect a bit of a wait, mind, as Thomas Jäger, one of AMG’s test and development drivers, admits that they’ll be a little bit busy fulfilling demand for its newest race car.

4: Like AMG’s DTM and GT3 cars, it’s built by HWA
HW-eh? Ah, the intricate and incestuous nature of car firms. When AMG was incorporated into Mercedes-Benz back in 1998, HWA was formed. That’s Hans Werner Aufrecht (the A in AMG), Hans tapping off the racing and customisation options and forming HWA.

It’s built AMG’s DTM and GT3 cars since, and also builds the GT4. Usefully, it’s in Affalterbach, which means Hans and his team can pop across the road to their chums at AMG to pick up the correct badges.

5: It is designed to be easy to drive
Pity poor Thomas Jäger, Bernd Schneider and Jan Seyffrath, AMG’s test drivers. They’ve selflessly hacked around various circuits spanning the globe doing 30,000+km to make sure the Mercedes-AMG is, in Jäger’s words, “easy and forgiving to drive”. That’s for us, so-called ‘gentlemen drivers’ (ie, amateurs). Not that we’re excluding ladies, of course.

It should be reliable, too, because the old racing mantra goes, to finish races first, first you have to finish. It’s based on the mad, 577bhp AMG GT R, so most of the bits can be had from your Mercedes-Benz dealer, keeping costs sensible if you bin it.

6: It features some proper race car tech
Yes it’s closely related to that GT R, but the electronics, safety kit, brakes and some aero elements differ - no active gubbins here, nor the GT R’s trick rear-wheel steering.

Inside it’s pure racer, with a pistol-grip steering wheel that’s a dead-ringer for one from a Mercedes-AMG F1 racing car and a cage that’d keep King Kong at bay. To that there’s a five-point harness that straps you into a tight, body-moulded seat, nets surrounding you to stop limbs flailing around if you get it very wrong and a big digital dashboard which indicates your gear and more besides.

There are switches and dials for various drive elements, a bank of which look like they’ve been liberated from the parts bin labelled Unimog. Evidently, giant push-buttons are easier to operate when you’re wearing gloves, bouncing over painted kerbs and fending off a field of determined Nomex wearing and helmeted CEOs.

7: It's not crazy quick in a straight line, but the brakes are mighty
In the true spirit of the amateur racers it’s aimed at, Mercedes-AMG let us have a go. Playing race driver for the day is fantastic, even if we’ve ascertained that only proper race drivers pull of racing suits with any credibility. Still, with Paul Ricard at our disposal, warm tyres and ten laps to experience it all we gave it our best.

Yes, it is, as Jäger suggests, relatively easy to drive. Not crazy quick compared to fast supercars in a straight line, even though here it is running at 503bhp and at its 1,390kg kerb weight. The pneumatically actuated paddle-shift blows its six gears up and down as you need them, and it does that magic racing car thing of stopping and turning like little else. Indeed, the brakes are mighty, so much so we were always a little bit early on them.

8: It’s also a bit Spinal Tap...
That’s to say the two dials for the ABS and traction control go up to eleven. Twelve, really, if you’re counting the off setting, but that’s insanity. Jäger said about 7 for the ABS, and to start at 3 with the traction control. 6 or 7 were only advised once we got used to the thing.

We went for that and, um, spun. Racing Driver Excuse #1: we just needed a little bit more seat time to get properly dialled in with it, that’s all. Honest…

9: It’ll be restricted in the interests of close racing
While the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 can produce as much as 577bhp in the GT R, here it’s pegged back to 503bhp. That’ll come down significantly: part of the GT4 regulations means all GT4 cars tested by the FIA have a ‘Balance of Performance’ factor applied to them. Jäger reckons that’ll bring the output down to closer to 395bhp. There’s always the potential to wind it back up for the odd track day outing though.

10: You need one in your life
Yes, predictably we’re rather taken by it, and the idea of buying one of these rather than a road car makes a lot of sense. After all, you can use it as intended. It is only right and proper to look to sell the house and go racing, right? Right?

Near 200mph four-door coupe replaces CLS 63 as Merc's fast, swoopy semi-practical thing

To dismiss AMG’s new ‘GT four-door Coupe’ as a CLS 63 in all but name – which, let’s face it, you’re doing right now – is to do it a massive disservice. Because even though AMG isn’t going to 63 the new CLS, when it goes on sale in September this thing will effectively occupy that space in Mercedes’ line-up. A four-door coupe with many horsepowers, designed to give Audi, Porsche and BMW and their best efforts – the RS7, Panamera and M8 GC – debilitating migraines.

In the vain of the SLS and AMG GT, what we’re looking at here is a car “independently developed by Mercedes-AMG”, not a hotted-up version of an existing Mercedes. So while it may look like the CLS, study the two side-by-side and you’ll easily spot the differences.

You’ll see the GT has different headlights, that there’s a kink in the GT’s beltline where the CLS’s is flat, and that the GT’s roofline tapers more smoothly because it – unlike the CLS – is a hatchback. Underneath too. This, the CLS and E-Class share a platform, but under the GT lies much bespokery. Its track is wider than the CLS’s, its wheelbase is shorter and there’s much in the way of, erm, suspension.

The engine and drivetrain – a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, 4Matic all-wheel drive and nine-speed automatic gearbox – are borrowed from the E63. Like the E63 there will be S and non-S versions – the former gets more power (630bhp/664lb ft plays 577bhp/590lb ft) and ‘drift mode’ as standard (interestingly, it’s optional on other models too).

But this time around there will also be an inline six-cylinder ‘GT 53’, which uses 48-volt electrics and an electric compressor to support a large, conventional turbo for 429hp. Brits are only getting the V8s for now, and much as the 53 engine impressed when we tried it in a CLS, that’s just fine with us…

The most potent GT four-door – the AMG GT 63 S – claims 0-62mph in 3.2 seconds and a faintly ridiculous 196mph, despite its more-than two tonne heft. For the non-S it’s 3.4 seconds and a paltry 193mph, and the 53 4.5 seconds and 177mph.

GT 53s get conventional steel springs, and 63s ride on a version of Mercedes’ three-chamber air suspension that promises “outstanding agility and racetrack-ready driving dynamics”. V8s get four-wheel steering as standard too. All models get a pop-up rear spoiler and other active aero designed to keep the GT a) cool and b) stuck to the tarmac. S-Class grade driver assistance systems are available - should, for some reason, you not want to actually drive your big, shouty AMG.

Inside the AMG GT four-door Coupe is a lot like the regular AMG GT. Only with more seats. Four or five in total, depending on whether you opt for the rear bench or “High-Class variant” that adds a touchscreen for controlling infotainment features. Up front, the twin, 12.3in screens will look familiar. This is the same setup Merc uses in the E, CLS and S - only here there’s an extra ‘Supersport’ mode for the instruments that gives “AMG-specific” information, like a gear-change indicator. Those switches on the centre console are actually little capacitive TFT screens - which is quite cool if needless. On the steering wheel too - there are many buttons to begin with, but if you need MORE you can specify two little controllers for cycling though drive modes and so on. These too are colour TFTs. A special ‘Track Pace’ app in the infotainment system gives access to laptimes and other telemetry.

On a practical level - the boot is 395 litres, expandable to 1,324 if you flip the seats down.

Prices are TBC, but expect six fairly large figures. Panamera Turbo S E nutter Hybrid thingy – your time has come.

Mercedes-AMG will use the most powerful Official FIA F1 Safety Car of all time in the 2018 Formula 1® season: the 430 kW (585 hp) AMG GT R will have its debut as the Official FIA F1 Safety Car of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship at the Grand Prix in Melbourne, Australia. The top-of-the-line model of the AMG GT series will ensure maximum safety for the Formula 1 field on all 20 race weekends. The performance and sports car brand from Affalterbach has supplied the pace car in the premier racing series of international motorsports since 1996.

With an output of 430 kW (585 hp) and a top speed of 318 km/h, the AMG GT R is the most powerful and fastest Official FIA F1 Safety Car of all time: In this, the 23rd consecutive year, Mercedes-AMG will safely lead the Formula 1 field around the track when bad weather or accidents require its deployment. The AMG GT R is the ideal Official FIA F1 Safety Car, with the driving dynamics of the AMG GT3 racing car, and having spent a large part of its development time in the "Green Hell" of the Nürburgring.

"I am very much looking forward to my new company car. It is an absolute highlight in terms of driving dynamics and is one level higher up still than the AMG GT S of recent years. Of course, ideally the safety car should be deployed as rarely as possible - but when we have to safely bunch up the Formula 1 field and lead it around the track, we will be superbly equipped with the AMG GT R", says Bernd Mayländer, who will again be the driver of the Official FIA F1 Safety Car in the new season.

Never before has Mercedes-AMG packed so much motorsport technology into a production vehicle as into the AMG GT R. The front-mid-engine concept with transaxle, the powerful 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, the elaborately designed chassis, the sophisticated active aerodynamics and the intelligent lightweight construction lay the foundations for an especially dynamic driving experience.

Wide front and rear wings allow an increased track width for optimum grip and even higher cornering speeds. The front apron with AIRPANEL active air control system and the active aerodynamics profile in the underbody, the large rear aerofoil and the rear apron with double diffuser increase the aerodynamic efficiency and help ensure optimum grip. The lightweight forged wheels are likewise designed for maximum driving dynamics. The same applies to the active rear-wheel steering, the nine-way adjustable traction control system and the adjustable coil-over suspension with additional electronic control.

As a result, the AMG GT R offers the optimal prerequisites for the tough job in the premier class of motorsports. The requirements profile of the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile) for the Official FIA F1 Safety Car is demanding. It must be able to maintain a minimum speed level to prevent the tyres and brakes of the Formula 1 vehicles from excessive cooling and the engines from overheating. With a top speed of 318 km/h and 3.6 seconds for the sprint from zero to 100 km/h, the AMG GT R poses no risk for this to happen.

A new addition to the family: new four-door coupé from Mercedes-AMG: Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé: performance meets design

Affalterbach. More space, more power, more goose pimples – the new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door model delivers driving experiences in new dimensions and extends the AMG model family. The new coupé is the first four-door sports car from Affalterbach and draws directly on the legendary SLS and AMG GT models of success. As another vehicle developed autonomously by Mercedes-AMG it combines unique design, high comfort and outstanding sports car engineering with an athletic, four-door fastback layout. It thus offers more space and more potential uses. Systematic expansion of the AMG GT family with the 4-door Coupé opens up the sports car segment to those looking for a vehicle for day-to-day use, but unwilling to go without the unparalleled performance of Mercedes-AMG.

Longitudinal and lateral dynamics at the highest level, and a striking silhouette with classic proportions put the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé in the portfolio of its two-door brother at first glance. The expressive design with the low bonnet, dominant front and muscular body language emphasises the sporty genes of the four-door coupé, which sets new standards as the youngest model in the AMG family: As the first four-door AMG GT model it combines high everyday comfort with diverse individualisation options and the latest sports car engineering.

"The new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé blends the impressive racetrack dynamism of our two-door sports car with maximum suitability for everyday use. It has a unique way of embodying our brand core, "Driving Performance" and with its systematic configuration it will attract new customers for Mercedes-AMG", commented Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé delivers special driving experiences on all levels and with a top speed of up to 315 km/h and its driving dynamics it cuts an effortlessly superior figure wherever it goes. Powerful, up-to-date 6-cylinder in-line and V8 engines with outputs ranging from 320 kW (435 hp) to 470 kW (639 hp) allow completely new driving experiences and combine impressive performance with modern efficiency.

The interior of the first four-door AMG GT model is characterised by elegant coolness and also the latest features: innovative control panels can be intuitively operated and configured as required. The blend of high individualisation and sports car technology, placing yet more focus on the requirements of discerning customers, is also clear from the wealth of equipment packages and individual options. The latest coup from Affalterbach also lives up to the Mercedes-AMG brand pledge with regard to its high driving dynamics and sets the benchmark in its segment on the racetrack too.

Clear at first sight: the AMG GT family membership

Clearly recognisable as a member of the AMG GT family, the new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé follows the design philosophy of Sensual Purity. It takes the striking proportions with convex surfaces and a muscular body and develops them to exciting effect for a four-door variant of an AMG GT Coupé.

The front view with a long bonnet and two powerdomes leaves no doubt that this is the youngest member of the AMG GT family. The 4-door coupé follows the design tradition of the successful AMG GT models: the powerful body exudes dynamism and motivation. Sensuous shapes with convex surfaces lend the four-door GT timeless elegance, whilst the flowing silhouette with the lowered greenhouse flags up its sporting credentials. As in the AMG GT R radiator shutters, the Airpanel in front of the centre cooling air inlet improves the car's aerodynamic efficiency. Slim MULTIBEAM LED headlamps, the AMG-specific radiator protection grille, the Shark Nose and the front apron with its enhanced Jet Wing (with a flowing A-Wing on the six-cylinder model) also lend the youngest model from Affalterbach the hallmark presence of the AMG GT family.

With frameless side windows and a flat windscreen inclined far to the rear, features of the classic coupé architecture are also cited. With the additional seat row in the rear the characteristic lines of the AMG GT models are not compromised. The tailored upper contours and broad shoulders point to the athletic, sporty orientation of the car, which is additionally emphasised by very pronounced rear wheel arches.

The rear view of the new 4-door coupé picks up on familiar features of the AMG GT design idiom: extremely slim LED tail lights define the hallmark boot sill line, the rear aerofoil extendable in several stages not only underscores the family affiliation; it is also an important element of the active aerodynamics.

The two eight-cylinder models can be identified through the three horizontal louvres in the side front air intakes, the Jet Wing with its trim element in Silver Shadow, the distinctive diffuser on the tail end and the two-pipe exhaust system with trapezoidal tailpipe trims. The six-cylinder variant, meanwhile, has one louvre in each of the air inlet grilles, round twin tailpipe trims and a somewhat less pronounced rear diffuser.

"The new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé is the ultimate four-door sports car and the ideal ambassador for Performance Luxury", said Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler AG. "It embodies a symbiosis of emotion and intelligence with breathtaking proportions and a puristic, surface-oriented design with sensuous shapes. It is both hot and cool at the same time."

Visual emphasis on demand: the exterior packages

The new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé offers an extensive portfolio of exterior equipment packages, which can be used to add different highlights in terms of design. The Night Package comprises high-gloss black trim, whilst, for example, the Chrome package emphasises the luxurious character of the car with trim and an insert in high-gloss chrome. Two Carbon-Fibre Packages offer different versions of carbon-fibre trim, whilst the optional Aerodynamics package gives the car an even sportier look and is a new feature in this segment. It includes additional functional features in high-gloss black, the Jet‑Wing in Silver Shadow in the front apron and the fixed rear aerofoil and also naturally reduces lift at higher speeds. With the V8 style package the six-cylinder model can also be equipped with design features from the eight-cylinder versions.

Top sporting performance: V8 biturbo engines with up to 470 kW (639 hp)

The exciting AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine is already used in numerous AMG models. Its output has been enhanced yet further for the new Mercedes‑AMG GT 63 S 4MATIC+ (fuel consumption combined 11.2 l/100 km, CO2 emissions combined 256 g/km)* and ensures superior performance on a par with a sports car. It delivers 470 kW (639 hp) and a maximum torque of 900 Nm, which is available over a wide engine speed range from 2500 to 4500 rpm. The top engine of the new four-door AMG GT thus exudes effortless superiority in every engine speed range. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds clearly illustrates this, as does the maximum speed of 315 km/h.

In the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ (fuel consumption combined 11.0 l/100 km, CO2 emissions combined 252 g/km) the V8 unit provides 430 kW (585 hp) and 800 Nm maximum torque. The sprint from standstill to 100 km/h lasts just 3.4 seconds, and the top speed is 310 km/h.

The AMG 4.0-litre V8 engine works with the proven biturbocharging, where the two exhaust-gas turbochargers are arranged not on the exterior, but between the cylinder banks. The advantages of the "hot inner V" are in the compact engine design and the immediate response of the exhaust-gas turbochargers.

In the AMG GT 63 S variant the eight-cylinder has active engine mounts. They solve the conflicting goals of achieving as soft a connection as possible to the powertrain for high comfort and as rigid a connection as possible for optimum driving dynamics, by steplessly and quickly adapting their rigidity to the respective driving conditions. As an option the AMG GT 63 can be equipped with active engine mounts as part of the Dynamic Plus package.

* The stated figures (provisional data) were determined in accordance with the prescribed measuring method. These are the NEDC CO2 figures according to Art. 2 No. 1 Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. The fuel consumption figures were calculated based on these figures.

Direct response: the two twin-scroll exhaust-gas turbochargers

Two twin-scroll exhaust-gas turbochargers combined with another innovative technology ensure even more output and better response. For the first time Mercedes-AMG is combining the advantages of twin-scroll technology in the V8 engine with turbine wheels mounted in anti-friction bearings. Through the mounting in anti-friction bearings, friction is reduced to an absolute minimum inside the exhaust-gas turbocharger. The twin-scroll technology also ensures that the exhaust gas flow is optimally utilised. Put together these both improved the immediate response of the four-litre eight-cylinder from AMG, which was already the benchmark. Through the optimised cylinder charge the output and the maximum torque was raised further. Spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, the all-aluminium crankcase, the four-valve-per-cylinder design with camshaft adjustment, air-water charge air cooling, alternator management, the ECO start/stop function and the gliding mode have all been retained.

Improved efficiency: the intelligent AMG Cylinder Management

For maximum efficiency, Mercedes-AMG has also equipped the V8 engines with the AMG Cylinder Management cylinder deactivation system. In the partial-load range, cylinders two, three, five and eight are deactivated, which crucially reduces the fuel consumption.

When the driver has selected the "Comfort" drive program, the cylinder deactivation system is available in the wide engine speed range from 1000 to 3250 rpm. A special display on the instrument cluster states whether the cylinder deactivation system is in use and whether the engine is presently operating in the four- or eight-cylinder mode. The transition between these two operating states is immediate, fast and torque-neutral, so the occupants do not have to relinquish any comfort.

Powerful and versatile: six-cylinder engine with innovative hybrid function

Alongside the two V8 engines the new four-door sports car is also available as the Mercedes-AMG GT 53 4MATIC+ (fuel consumption combined 9.1 l/100 km, CO2 emissions combined 209 g/km) with the innovative AMG six-cylinder inline engine. The 320 kW (435 hp) 3.0-litre unit is characterised by high performance, supported by a boost effect with an output of up to 16 kW (22 hp) and 250 newton metres of torque. The EQ Boost starter-alternator combines a starter motor and alternator in a powerful electric motor and is between the engine and transmission. This intelligent combination, along with efficient charging with the electric additional compressor (eZV) and exhaust air turbocharger helps ensure the hallmark AMG performance and driving dynamics but also cuts consumption and emissions at the same time. The four-door AMG GT 53 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, and achieves a top speed of 285 km/h.

More energy for yet more innovations: the new 48-volt on-board power supply

The EQ Boost starter-alternator in the new AMG GT 53 also generates the power for the 48 V on-board electrical system. This in turn uses a DC/DC converter to supply the conventional 12 V network for the lights, cockpit, infotainment displays and control units. Through the 48 V battery the battery capacity of the entire car is increased, which means that more electrical energy can be made available for new functions. The 48 V on-board electrical system thus also paves the way for the progressive expansion of infotainment and assistance systems.

Emotive gearshifting experience: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT transmission

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G 9-speed transmission is specially tuned to the requirements of the eight-cylinder variants of the new four-door AMG GT. A wet clutch is used here. This reduces weight and inertia and optimises the response. The extensively tailored software enables extremely short shift times and fast multiple downshifts and delivers an especially emotive gearshifting experience thanks to the double-clutching function. There is also a RACE START function, ensuring optimum acceleration.

The six-cylinder inline engine is coupled with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission. In conjunction with the torque converter the transmission is tuned to the special requirements of this engine. On the other hand, the extremely fast and emotive gearshifting characteristic of an AMG model is also possible depending on the drive program.

In total: the high driving dynamics of the AMG GT

In order to meet the high demands of impressive driving dynamics, Mercedes-AMG engages all the components this takes. With its sophisticated design the bodyshell of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63/53 plays an equally crucial role as the ingenious control strategy of the all-wheel drive system. And it is only in the optimum interplay together with the active aerodynamics, the rear axle steering and the ESP® that the complicated suspension tuning unleashes its full potential. Through the complex networking of all the systems and components the developers in Affalterbach were able to bestow on the car the high level of driving dynamics expected of it as a member of the AMG GT‑family.

Structure made in Affalterbach: the rigid AMG bodyshell

One aim during development of the new four-door AMG GT was to anchor the genes of a sports car in the bodyshell. In order to do this, analysis and simulation methods from racing were used in order to reinforce the structure where necessary for maximum performance. The very rigid front section prevents unwanted distortions about the longitudinal and transverse axle, which ensures precise steering and better feedback for the driver.

In the area of the centre and tail end of the vehicle new reinforcement concepts were used in conjunction with state-of-the-art CRP plastics. This, together with further individual measures plus close networking with Chassis Development right from the outset, ensured that the four-door AMG GT was given an optimum basis for high lateral dynamics potential.

Dynamism made in Affalterbach: the AMG chassis engineering

The outstanding agility and racetrack-ready driving dynamics of the four-door AMG GT are also down to the special AMG suspension. On the six-cylinder model a suspension with steel springs and adjustable damping is used as standard. The suspension on the eight-cylinder variants is based on the fully load-bearing multi chamber air suspension AMG RIDE CONTROL+. A rigid integral carrier bears the front axle, engine, transmission and steering gear.

In conjunction with the wide track width and the configuration for large tyre dimensions, wheel location and spring elements which are independent of one another facilitate high lateral acceleration, whilst the low unsprung masses promote the agile driving feel yet further.

The rear axle differential also has a new specially reinforced mount to improve the NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) characteristics. As on the AMG GT R, an anti-roll bar made of tubular material reduces the overall weight of the rear axle.

Intelligent all-wheel drive: AMG Performance 4MATIC+

All AMG GT 4-Door Coupé models are equipped with the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. An electro-mechanically controlled clutch connects the permanently driven rear axle variably to the front axle. The best possible torque split is continuously computed according to the driving conditions and driver's input. The transition from rear-wheel to all-wheel drive and vice versa is seamless, as the intelligent control is integrated into the overall vehicle system architecture. Alongside traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel drive also improves the longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration.

It is still possible to drift thanks to fully variable torque distribution. The Drift Mode is suitable for this; in the S version of the four-door AMG GT it is standard, and in the other models it is available as an option. This can be activated in the "RACE" drive program using the shift paddles, provided that ESP® is deactivated and the transmission is in manual mode. When activating the Drift Mode the four-door sports car thus turns into a model with purely rear-wheel drive.

Optimum traction: rear-axle limited-slip differential

To improve traction and dynamism the AMG GT 63 S has an electronically controlled locking differential at the rear axle as standard. The slip is thus suppressed at the inner wheel on bends, ensuring optimum grip. The driver is therefore able to accelerate out of corners earlier and with more power thanks to the improved traction. The vehicle remains more stable when braking from high speed, while the limited-slip differential also improves traction when accelerating from rest. The electronic locking differential is part of the Dynamic Plus package and in this combination it is also optionally available for all further variants of the four-door AMG GT.

Enhanced agility and precision: the active rear-wheel steering

The AMG GT 4-Door Coupé responds even more sensitively to steering commands thanks to the active rear axle steering which comes as standard in the V8 models and is optional in the six-cylinder versions. The system facilitates an even better combination of agility and stability and thus reinforces the dynamism and the handling safety of the new AMG GT four-door model.

Up to a speed of 100 km/h, the rear wheels point in the opposite direction to the front wheels via two electric actuator motors. As a result, the car turns into corners with significantly higher agility. Under everyday driving conditions, the driver also benefits from a smaller turning circle.

At speeds higher than 100 km/h, the system turns the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels. That noticeably improves driving stability. At the same time, the lateral force on the rear wheels builds up considerably faster on changes of direction, thus improving the response to the steering. The driver can also rely on extreme rear-axle grip and high stability when changing direction quickly, without the usual tendency for the rear end to break out.

Direct and immediate: AMG speed-sensitive sports steering

The electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering has a variable ratio. It impresses with its precise feedback thanks to the AMG-specific rack-and-pinion steering with a variable ratio. Power assistance also varies between the three stages "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport+". The corresponding characteristic is automatically activated depending on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode or can be personalised as required in "Individual" mode.

Good control and fade-resistant: the AMG high-performance braking systems

In line with the high output values and their associated performance the eight-cylinder models have a large-dimensioned brake system consisting of compound discs with 6-piston fixed callipers at the front and single-piston floating brake callipers at the rear. The S variant is characterised by yellow brake callipers, whilst the base variant of the eight-cylinder sports red brake callipers.

The six-cylinder model is also equipped with internally ventilated and perforated compound brake discs with brake callipers painted silver grey.

As an option a high-performance ceramic brake system with bronze-coloured 6-piston fixed callipers at the front and single-piston floating brake callipers at the rear can be ordered, saving weight compared with the compound discs and thus reducing the unsprung masses. Further advantages are their high overall and fading stability under high stress. The brake system also wins points with a high service life and immediate response – guaranteeing fast lap times.

Design and lightness: the new AMG wheels

To make a grand entrance – both visually and technically – the four-door AMG GT Coupé is shod in generous wheel/tyre combinations. The customer can choose from a multitude of aerodynamically optimised disc wheels between 19 and 21 inches. Alongside their visual design the developers Affalterbach placed great emphasis on reducing the unsprung masses. It is above all the light-alloy wheels produced using high-quality forging technology, which set the benchmark yet again with their extremely low weight.

The AMG GT 53 and GT 63 variants of the four-door AMG GT Coupé sport standard-specification 10-spoke disc wheels painted vanadium silver in the size 9.5 J x 19 H2 ET 22 and 255/45 R 19 tyres at the front, plus 11.0 J x 19 H2 ET 17 with the tyre size 285/40 R 19 at the rear.

The AMG GT 63 S 4MATIC+ wears light-alloy wheels with five twin spokes painted tantalite grey with a high-sheen finish, in the dimension 9.5 J x 20 H2 ET 22.5 with tyres 265/40 R 20 at the front, plus 11.0 J x 20 H2 ET 20 and tyres 295/35 R 20 at the rear.

Fluid science: the active aerodynamics

A significant contribution towards the high driving dynamics and handling safety is made by the active aerodynamics, which has been tuned to the special requirements of the four-door coupé in extensive simulations, wind tunnel tests and road testing. The main components are the active air control system AIRPANEL in the front apron and the compact, multi-stage retractable and extending rear spoiler. The intelligent interaction of the active aerodynamics features ensures the optimum combination of power output and low wind resistance. The system is also oriented towards the respective driving style and the drive program selected.

On the AIRPANEL familiar from the AMG GT R there are vertical louvres located in the lower section of the front apron. These electronically controlled louvres are opened and closed in a flash via an electric motor in order to steer the air flow and thus ensure the aeroperformance/the necessary engine cooling requirements.

The multi-stage rear spoiler works according to a similar principle, by adopting the position required for the operating conditions. During fast driving on straight stretches the rear aerofoil automatically moves to a flatter position in order to reduce wind resistance and thus increase the maximum design speed. If the system detects lateral dynamics the spoiler moves to a steeper position in order to increase power output at the rear axle and thus ensure handling that is dynamic and safe in equal measure.

Added downforce: the optional Aerodynamics package

As an exclusive in its market segment the new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé can also be equipped with an Aerodynamics package on request. It contains additional flics and an enlarged front splitter, which further optimises the air flow and output level at the front axle. The same applies to the modified diffuser in conjunction with the fixed rear aerofoil, which is also available in carbon fibre if desired. The three-dimensional wing profile can be manually adjusted, in order to adapt the car to the conditions of different race circuits, for instance. The Aero package increases the negative lift force at the rear axle, but the wind resistance remains unchanged.

Yet more differentiation in driving experiences: AMG DYNAMICS

Depending on the engine there are up to six drive programs to choose from in the four-door AMG GT: "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport+", "RACE" and "Individual". These levels are selectable via the gearshift paddle in the centre console and stored with the new drive program attribute AMG DYNAMICS, which can be adjusted to match the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé's handling characteristics to different demands and driving conditions in a much more differentiated way.

Behind the umbrella term AMG DYNAMICS are the agility functions "Basic", "Advanced", "Pro" and "Master", which are automatically selected by the respective drive program. Parameters relevant to driving, such as the response of the engine, suspension, the control strategy of the all-wheel drive system and the control thresholds of the completely redeveloped ESP® are intelligently adapted according to the drive program.

The spectrum ranges from extremely safety-oriented to highly dynamic. The "Master" mode stored in the drive program RACE ensures optimum agility and brings out the high driving dynamics potential of the new member of the AMG GT family to optimum effect - for example through higher yaw rates and a faster response from the accelerator pedal, gearshift system, rear axle steering, electronically controlled rear axle locking differential or brake force distribution on the all-wheel drive system.

Irrespective of the drive programs, as before the driver can use the display buttons in the centre console to directly select manual transmission mode, their favoured suspension level and also the exhaust system, for instance.

Gran Turismo with ultramodern operation: the new AMG interior

The interior presents a symbiosis of performance and exclusivity and integrates an ultramodern, new type of operating system into the atmosphere of a Gran Turismo. The sculptural instrument panel forms an interesting contrast here to the large trim element with its flowing style, which merges into the driver's door in a wrap-around effect. Illuminated turbine-look air vents refine the high-quality impression and underline the sporty appearance. The eye-catching feature in all AMG GT interiors is the centre console with its stylised V8 design, putting the spotlight on the brand's performance claim as well as optimally fulfilling functional requirements.

Two high-resolution displays each measuring 12.3 inches dominate the Widescreen Cockpit, which is standard in the V8 and optional in the inline 6-cylinder version. Three different styles are available for selection for these all-digital displays: "Classic", "Sport" and the completely new "Supersport". Depending on the driving style or interior equipment, the different styles can be set at any time via the instrument cluster or the central display.

Via the left-hand Touch Control Button on the steering wheel, preferred information can be projected onto the left- or right-hand side of the instrument – for example, the classic speedometer and tachometer, information on navigation or assistance systems through to detailed engine data. Especially sporty drivers can also fade in a g-force display or the current output and torque values.

In the "Supersport" view there is also extensive additional AMG-specific information, such as a prominent prompt to change up a gear in manual transmission mode, reminiscent of motorsport.

The central display represents the interface to all further content and information, such as navigation, radio, media, telephone and vehicle data. The large full-screen map view ensures optimum legibility in all driving situations. There are also extra performance-oriented functions, such as visualisation of the all-wheel drive.

With additional functions as an option: the new performance steering wheel

The new AMG performance steering wheel blends ideal ergonomics with maximum functionality. Various functions are combined in groups on the sporty-style wheel with a high-quality touch and feel and can be precisely and intuitively controlled via Touch Control Buttons in the steering wheel. The driver to controls the entire infotainment system using finger swipes, without having to take their hands off the steering wheel.

As an option the performance steering wheel can be equipped with extra innovative features. They consist of a round controller with an integral display beneath the right-hand steering-wheel spoke, plus two vertically positioned colour display buttons beneath the left-hand steering-wheel spoke.

The AMG drive programs can be actuated directly via the controller. The selected drive program is shown on the colour TFT display directly integrated in the controller.

With the two freely configurable display buttons and the additional switches, further AMG functions can be controlled within easy reach, directly on the steering wheel. This means that the driver can concentrate fully on dynamic driving without having to take their hands off the wheel. Each function required can be depicted on the other TFT display, and its switch is tapped by the driver to set the respective function. The driver's two preferred AMG functions can be defined in this way and the settings changed with just one tap of the finger.

Display buttons and capacitive switches: the innovative centre console

Inspired by the two-door Mercedes-AMG GT, the centre console of the new 4-door model represents a further special feature.

A new and unique feature comes in the form of the colour display buttons, integrated into the distinctive and tailor-made trim element, for the integral display and control of the transmission logics, suspension, ESP®, exhaust system, start/stop function and rear aerofoil. With their TFT technology the display buttons use coloured, intuitively comprehensible symbols to show the function and are easy to operate with just a small tap of the finger.

The display push button switches are supplemented by the two capacitive switches for the drive programs and volume control.

Another new feature at AMG are the capacitive switches directly in front of the stylised centre-console V. The reversing camera, navigation, radio, media, telephone and vehicle settings can be operated via this proximity switch. If the finger moves within a minimal distance from the panel the appropriate symbol lights up directly in the head unit and preselects the menu item. The function in question is then activated by pressing. The driver does not have to avert their gaze, as the appropriate menu item is shown simultaneously in the multifunction display of the Widescreen Cockpit, representing an added bonus for handling safety.

Space as needed: four or five seats to suit requirements

When it comes to the seats, too, Mercedes-AMG proves that comfort and exclusivity need not conflict with a performance-oriented vehicle configuration. The driver's and front passenger seat can be configured in different scenarios. The selection ranges from the sporty, comfortable seat and a seat with elegant diamond quilting to an extremely contoured performance seat with an integral head restraint.

The four-door AMG GT also offers different seating configurations to meet all demands for the rear, too. These range from an asymmetrically folding rear bench seat for the family to two variants with two individual seats respectively. The High-Class variant has everything a business saloon requires. The rear passengers can select diverse features via a touchpad screen integrated into the console between the seats. The features range from calling up the dynamism data via the AMG menu to controlling the ambient lighting or the climate control and seat heating.

The boot capacity of up to 395 litres is supplemented by around a further 60 litres beneath the boot floor. With the backrests folded down the capacity is up to 1324 litres. The wide load compartment opening makes it easier to load and unload luggage and other items. As an option, the large boot lid can be opened and closed with the HAND-FREE ACCESS feature via a movement with the foot beneath the bumper.

Always in touch with Connectivity and Intelligent Drive

For high comfort in everyday use the new four-door sports car from Affalterbach boasts all the connectivity and Intelligent Drive functions and options of the Mercedes-AMG S-Class. These include partially automated driving with the DRIVE PILOT, which can support the driver with routine daily tasks such as driving in a traffic jam.

In addition to the standard functions of Mercedes me connect, such as eCall, Accident Recovery, Breakdown Assistance and Customer Service, Remote Online (included as standard with COMAND Online) offers a range of convenience features via smartphone. For example tracking the parked vehicle, controlling the auxiliary heating, locking/unlocking the vehicle and checking the status of the mileage, fuel level or range, for example, among other things.

The vehicle as a virtual race engineer: AMG TRACK PACE

With AMG TRACK PACE, drivers can feel like Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, and capture and analyse in detail over 80 vehicle-specific data as well as times on the racetrack. AMG TRACK PACE is an additional function of the COMAND Online infotainment system and is part of the standard equipment for the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé.

Data collected on lateral and longitudinal acceleration, the accelerator and brake pedal or steering angle help record and continuously improve individual Driving Performance. All the values are shown on the COMAND display, on request also in real time on the telemetry screen. Thanks to the different colours and acoustic feedback used, faster or slower laps can be spotted out of the corner of the driver's eye without any need to look away from the track. Even the drift angle of the car is calculated and displayed.

As well as recording drives on circuits, AMG TRACK PACE can also be used to register acceleration such as the sprint from standstill to 100 km/h or over a quarter of a mile as well as deceleration values.

Sporty room fragrance: fuel for the senses

The interior of the new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé has another world premiere in store. For the first time an AMG car has its own room fragrance. It is an appealing, sporty scent to match the spirit of the performance brand.

The new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé can also be fitted with the ENERGIZING comfort control for improved driver-fitness safety. This system networks different vehicle functions such as the air conditioning system, seat control, massage functions, steering wheel heating and ambient lighting, in order to relax or refresh the driver and passengers in a targeted manner with predefined programs.

World première and market launch

The new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé celebrates its world premiere on 6th March 2018 at the Geneva Motor Show. Sales release of the first four-door AMG GT is in summer 2018.

For 12 months only, you can have a 630bhp four-door super-coupe with lots of aero

Mercedes-AMG has announced a limited edition of its very new, very fast and very svelte four-door AMG GT. It is called the Edition 1, and it wants to talk to you about aero.

Principally because this four-door AMG GT Edition 1 has more of it than a regular four-door AMG GT. One of the headline features is the addition of a larger front splitter, a “demand-optimised” diffuser and a fixed rear spoiler.

You can manually adjust the blade of that fixed rear spoiler, thus allowing you to minutely configure your chosen lift. Yes, this is deeply nerdy, and also deeply excellent.

Why deeply excellent? Because at 186mph, and with the adjustable spoiler extended to bursting point, the Edition 1 generates 30kg more downforce over the rear axle. Configure the adjustable louvres on the front axle (ie, close them), and you get less lift at the front too. Basically, it’s max track attack mode. Presumably no one’s in the back seats for that.

There’s more to the Edition 1, of course. More in the shape of a choice of graphite or metallic grey and white paint, stripes, 21in AMG forged wheels in matt black, AMG performance seats, matt carbon trim, yellow seatbelts, more trim detailing and – most importantly – the ability to literally smell the additional downforce via the “AMG #63” fragrance piped through the air con.

You can further destroy your relationship with your bank manager via options such as the AMG Night Pack, yet more carbon fibre on the outside, ceramic brakes and a ‘high-class’ rear seat.

Stuff you don’t have to option include the standard a 4.0-litre biturbo V8 with 630bhp and the ability to shift the Edition 1 from 0-62mph in 3.2secs. Really, that’s more than enough power and speed for any self-respecting four-door super-coupe.

It’ll be available from September this year. We like.

Bringing a gun to a knife fight

THE GOOD: Extreme acceleration made easy, high-G grip for days, neck-snapping looks.

THE BAD: Rides stiffly, loud tires, thirsty for premium fuel.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Though intended for race tracks, the AMG GT R still thrives and thrills when driven in the real world.

The roads of southeast Michigan are not exactly where this car was meant to be driven, with AMG noting that the GT R "spent most of its development time" lapping the fearsome Nürburgring. Yet while some track-bred machines can feel dull and lifeless at ordinary speeds, the wildest AMG car does not. It's a thriller from the moment I depress the Engine Start button to the second I give back the keys. Not only is it wickedly fast and capable, the GT R also delivers gobs of feedback and excitement to the driver.

Who needs a race track, anyway?

All the parts you need to go fast

At the heart of the GT R is a dry-sump version of the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 familiar from other Mercedes-AMG products. While it may not be the most soulful engine you can buy, at least it's one of the most power-dense: you get 516 pound-feet of torque all the way from 1,900 to 5,500 rpm and 577 horsepower up at 6,250 rpm. Standing starts are impressive, at 3.5 seconds to 60 miles per hour, but what really shocks is the in-gear passing performance. With so much boost arriving so easily, rolling on the throttle at any speed in any gear shoves the car forward. There's so much low-end grunt you can even leave the dual-clutch transaxle in its seventh speed when executing highway passes. If you had enough space, the GT R would stretch its legs all the way to 198 mph.

Perhaps best of all, though, the throttle's gentle and progressive tuning means that you can dole out the exact amount of power you want with ease; the GT R never feels jumpy or hyperactive. It sounds good, too. The V8 growls and grumbles all the time and gets extra vocal when you depress the sports exhaust button. Move up to the Sport+ or Race modes for even more crackles and pops on overrun, all of which elicit giggles as they echo off walls and tunnels and bridges.

Converting all that velocity to heat is easy, thanks to enormous carbon-ceramic brakes (an $8,950 option) that deliver outrageous deceleration time and time again. Miraculously, they are neither grabby nor squealy in city driving, something that can't be said for every super-powered car with carbon stoppers.

Other go-fast technology includes an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, adaptive suspension and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. Yet the technical roster goes far beyond those basics. Dynamic engine and transmission mounts, for instance, can stiffen for sporty driving, while rear-wheel steering makes low-speed maneuvering tighter and high-speed cornering more stable.

And that's before discussing the aerodynamics, which offer up 342 pounds more downforce at speed than the standard GT coupe. That massive rear wing is adjustable (with a tool kit) depending on your preferences, while up front the splitter can lower electronically (above 50 miles per hour in Race mode) to add another 88 pounds of downforce at 155 mph. Plus, active grille shutters open and close to balance drag reduction and engine cooling needs. Yet with all that effort to glue the car to the road, the GT R still has a lower drag coefficient than other members of the GT coupe family. Science!

It adds up to a road car with more grip than one could ever use on the street. Flinging the GT R around an on-ramp reminds me that, yep, it really will stick at this speed, while it's laser-precise in the way it changes direction on winding roads. All the while, lots of feedback comes through to the driver: I feel nibbles and bumps from the road surface through the steering wheel, as well as varying weights as I load and unload the tires. As to ride quality, well, it's fidgety even in the default of the three suspension settings, but never harsh or unpleasant. The upshot: body movements are basically nonexistent no matter how enthusiastically you drive. The car just points, sticks and goes.

Looks and feels the part

All those go-fast parts and the car's flared fenders (it's wider than a Corvette Z06) would make the AMG GT R a hefty thing, but fortunately engineers built in lots of lightweight materials. The front fenders, roof, engine cover, driveshaft and torque tube are all made from carbon fiber, while the exhaust is titanium. At 3,594 pounds, the GT R is thus the second-lightest of its family (the entry-level model is 34 pounds skinnier).

It's not light on visual aggression, though, with gaping air inlets, big wheels and big rear haunches. A long, low hood and a small, curvy cabin give the GT R fabulous proportions. The contrast between its red paint and black trim pieces (including the exposed carbon roof) grabs attention at every stoplight. The rear wing may be functional (and looks killer), but it does ruin the otherwise graceful lines of the GT coupe's silhouette. In fact, it's menacing from every angle; note the wicked diffuser poking out from either side of the exhaust.

The snug two-seat cabin is impeccably finished, though the repeated four-circle design for the vents and control switches will aggravate anyone with trypophobia. As will reaching back for the stubby gear selector, which is located too far to the back of the center console. My test car's red seatbelts and matte carbon-fiber dash trim scream sportiness, while the aluminum shifter paddles and Dinamica microfiber-wrapped steering wheel feel lovely. There's a good amount of roof in the trunk, and the exposed carbon-fiber brace behind the seats is a very cool "hey, look" item.

With that lengthy hood stretching out ahead of the windshield, I tend to move the driver's seat up a little higher than normal. Be sure also to adjust the mirrors carefully to see behind you and double-check at four-way stops to see past the shallow-angle A-pillars -- minor ergonomic gripes common to pretty much all sporty coupes .

The technological complement is excellent but notably a step behind the features in the newest Mercedes models: you won't find the full-digital instrument cluster of, say, the AMG E63 and the Comand infotainment system's 8.4-inch display is not as large as in newer Mercedes cars. Still, Comand works very well and includes navigation with XM traffic information, as well as satellite radio and even some AMG-specific readouts for things like G-forces and fluid temperatures. While you'll enjoy Bluetooth and USB connectivity, neither Apple CarPlay nor Android Auto are supported because the Comand system is an older-generation unit. At least the Burmester surround sound system (a $1,300 option) sounds great -- assuming you've got the exhaust turned to its quieter mode so you can hear it.

Standard safety gear includes precollision braking, a driver attention monitor, automatic high beams and parking sensors, though adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist are all paid options.

How I'd spec it

The 2018 AMG GT R starts at $157,000 before options or destination charges, representing a $44,600 premium over the entry-level, 469-horsepower GT Coupe. I wouldn't change too much about the way my $187,345 test car is equipped. I like the looks of the exterior carbon-fiber add-ons ($4,000), the usefulness of the $1,600 Convenience package's keyless access and power-folding mirrors, and the slick Nappa/Dinamica interior trim from the $3,600 Exclusive Interior package. I might add blind-spot monitoring with lane-keeping assist ($875), purely because the view over one's shoulders is so restricted. And I could do without the silver-rimmed black forged wheels ($1,700).

But those are all quibbles. The point of the AMG GT R is that it provides ridiculous performance in a sublimely usable package; who cares exactly what color it is or what features it boasts? Track-ready performance machines often abuse drivers on the road with rock-hard suspension, on-off throttle response and muscle-building steering. Not so with the GT R. Sure, it's a little louder, stiffer and thirstier than lesser GT coupes. But given just how thrilling it is to drive and how readily it can devour roads and tracks, those are pretty small compromises to make.

THE BAD: Rides stiffly, loud tires, thirsty for premium fuel.

Allow me to be picky here for just a second. Yesterday, a new video of the purported 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series appeared, showing the green mule testing at the Nürburgring. It sounds guttural and mean as all hell, but what exactly is the point of it? None. There is no point.

Just to refresh your memory, the upcoming Black Series-ified GT will slot above the already track-tuned GT R with a supposed 603 horsepower from its familiar 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. It’ll probably have improved aerodynamics, weight loss and a racier suspension. It will be invariably quite expensive.

It’s true that the last Black Series model we saw was the SLS AMG Black Series back in 2013, but it’s not exactly like the current GT lineup is missing anything special. The GT R already does everything a Black Series philosophically would have done, it just has less power and doesn’t say “Black Series” anywhere on it.

And if I really wanted to get cranky, I’d say that the GT lineup doesn’t need a Black Series at all. The fact that a lineup exists in the first place (GT, GT C, GT R and the roadsters) already tells me that things have already been diluted too much for a GT Black Series to be that special.

Because that’s what a Black Series was supposed to be: special. To achieve that, you need exclusivity. There were no other varying models of the SLK55, CLK63, SL65, C63 (I don’t count the 507 or DTM Editions) and SLS AMG. Maybe there was a roadster flavor, but by and large, there was only the normal AMG version and then the Black Series version.

There is little doubt in my mind that I will love this car when it comes out because the AMG GTs are wonderful cars, both in sound and to drive, but this upcoming Black Series still smells like Mercedes’ recent habit of sticking a badge on everything and calling it special.

Just like how there are AMG and AMG S models. I’m not about it.

Available in Europe, the new entry-level version is about €14,000 cheaper than the GT 53.

After unveiling the GT 53, GT 63, and GT 63 S earlier this year, Mercedes-AMG is extending the Four-Door Coupe’s lineup with the introduction of an entry-level model. Sitting on those glorious retro-flavored Monoblock wheels, the new GT 43 gets the same turbocharged inline-six 3.0-liter engine as the GT 53, but obviously with less power, yet still enough for most people.

While the “53” model has 435 horsepower (320 kilowatts) and 520 Newton-meters (384 pound-feet) of torque, the new base Four-Door Coupe has to make do with “only” 367 hp (270 kW) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft). Losing 68 hp and 20 Nm (15 lb-ft) has added four tenths of a second to the 0-62 mph (0-100 kph) sprint, which now takes 4.9 seconds. As far as top speed is concerned, it has decreased by 10 mph (15 kph) to 168 mph (270 kph) compared to the GT 53.

Although it’s down on power, you get the whole shebang sooner in the rpm range (5,500 rpm compared to 6,100 rpm) while the full torque kicks in at the same 1,800 rpm. Both cars share the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system with fully variable torque distribution, the nine-speed automatic transmission, and the EQ Boost offering an extra 22 hp (16 kW) and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) for a brief moment.

When it comes to pricing, the 2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 53 Four-Door Coupe (it’s quite the mouthful, isn’t it?) kicks off from €109,182 in Germany where the lesser “43” model can be had for €95,259. The company is already accepting orders and will sell the entry-level car with virtually the same equipment and options you get in the more powerful “53” variant.

Availability in the United States is not known at this point, but Mercedes-AMG has confirmed the 63 and 63 S will arrive early next year while the 53 is due by mid-2019.