Development for the sequel Mercedes-AMG GT well underway, and we’ve spotted testing the V8-powered GT 63 alongside an entry-level version, possibly using a straight-six hybrid
Following the introduction of the sportier SL roadster, Mercedes-AMG is preparing to launch a more powerful second generation AMG GT. The Porsche 911 The rival will be based on an all-new platform that it will share with the SL, with the new GT set to be positioned as an even sportier version of the car it will replace.
Our scouting photographers caught the novice tester in two variants – the V8-powered GT 63 and the new entry-level version, labeled either GT 53 or GT 55, depending on the engine. it uses.
A GT 53 with a hybrid inline six from Mercedes AMG GT 53 4-Door on the cards. In the four-door supercar, the setup delivers 429bhp, supplemented by an electric motor that produces 22bhp.
However, we could also see a GT 55 with the 4.0-liter V8 disassembled from the Mercedes-AMG SL 55, with 469 hp. What is certain is that the AMG GT 63 will use AMG’s ubiquitous 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with over 600 hp, in order to create a clear gap between it and the 63 version of the new SL. As has been confirmed for the new Mercedes convertible, an E-Performance plug-in hybrid V8 could also appear in the new GT lineup with over 800 hp.
The new AMG GT is set to offer an even more distinctive driving experience than before, and the redesigned bodywork hints at this with a more aggressive line and a grooved rear display. Inflatable cars are also evident from these camouflaged pre-production cars, and the AMG GT will retain the long bonnet and Panamericana grille. The only distinguishing feature between the two versions is the exhaust tips – the new entry-level model gets a circular quad tailpipe, while the GT 63 uses four trapezoidal tailpipes.
Thanks to the new aluminum-intensive MSA platform that has been designed to accept Mercedes’ 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, the next AMG GT is likely to break with the old model’s tradition and send power to all 4 wheels.
Like other all-wheel drive AMG models, this setup will tend to be more driver-focused, sending more power to the rear axle, and with system parameters changing depending on the driving mode, enhanced agility and stability. Expect rear-wheel steering, Active Ride Control adaptive suspension and AMG’s anti-roll tech.
It is expected that the interior of the next AMG GT will also be completely overhauled, likely inheriting elements of the SL’s cabin, including an 11.9-inch touchscreen.
AMG technical director Jochen Hermann has confirmed that the next GT won’t be offered in roadster form, with the new SL covering that market. It’s unknown whether the GT will inherit the SL’s 2+2 layout or it will remain a strict two-seater.
Click this to read our review of Hardcore Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series…
