A Powerful Coupe
When the initials AMG appear in the Mercedes-Benz vehicle name, besides the enhanced power and handling, Mercedes spins a different look. Instead of the classic Mercedes circle with the star in the grille with chrome lines extending to the headlights over a mesh-like grille, a different twist is presented. The star and circle are still there, but the grille has vertical lines and the grille is broader. But more importantly, power is much greater and handling is more sports car originated, even in a sedan like the AMG GT.
In this model, there are a number of choices depending on the buyer’s performance preferences. Essentially, the question is how much more performance do you want? The GT 43 has a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight six-cylinder engine developing 362 horsepower sending the power to all the wheels through a 9-speed automatic transmission. Go to model 53 and the power jumps to 429 horsepower, and in the top of the pack is the 63 model with a very steep 630 horsepower with a twin-turbocharged V8. Price and additional equipment goes up with each jump in power.
Mercedes describes the AMG GT series as a four-door coupe because the rear roof design is steeply lowered and sweeps back deeply into the trunk area. Furthermore, the car is simply lower than most sedans. Added to the equation is a built-in hefty rear spoiler/wing, which can be completely invisible in the trunk area or, with a push of a button, raised to a fairly high level. Added to performance image are four giant exhaust pipes under the rear bumper, and 20-inch wheels. The end result is an attractive “sedan” with a clear message: Good looks and power.
As with most new Mercedes these days, two super-large video screens dominate the dashboard. In the middle is a very colorful foot-long-plus touch screen that seemingly has an infinite number of screens. Besides touching the screen, it can be controlled by buttons on the left side of the steering wheel or a pad on the center console. Numerous controls in the screen control the ride, cornering, and other available features. The handling choices include comfort, slippery, individual, sports and sports plus. Essentially, all the shift patterns, acceleration modes and exhaust notes can be changed depending on the choice. Interestingly, another option is called seat kinetics. It moves portions of the high-bolstered leather-front seats intermediately for greater comfort. And by talking to your screen, changes can be made to radio stations and other features. The dash pod video screen has multiple screen configurations and color choices.
Rather surprisingly, the two rear seats are roomy even with the low roofline. The usual cup holders and storage areas in back of the front seats are provided. The trunk is easily opened with a foot swing under the rear bumper, and is relatively large and nicely lined. Under the floor of the trunk is an additional storage area.
On the road, the power is instant even with the smallest engine with a 0-60 time of 4.8 seconds and, of course, with more bucks spent for the biggest engine, the time drops to a mere 2.6 seconds. At modest speeds, the engine is quiet and by setting your choice of ride, it can be smooth and absorbing or racetrack handling. And even with this performance, the average fuel mileage rating is 22 mpg. Likewise, the exhaust sound goes from silent to entertaining, depending on your choice.
Bottom line ... this Mercedes with AMG initials on it gives you an attractive sedan and a seemingly infinite number of choices from looks to speed, comfort and handling.