After years of anticipation, the upgrade has arrived—and it is powerful.
Mercedes-Benz debuted the second iteration of their flagship sports car in Carmel, California, on August 18. The 2024 AMG GT coupe is available in two configurations: a 577-horsepower AMG GT 63 and a 469-horsepower AMG GT 55. The more powerful GT 63 will hit 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 196 mph, while the less powerful GT 55 will do it in 3.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 183 mph.
Pricing for each vehicle will be announced later; the previous generation vehicle began about $120,000.
The coupe succeeds a generation of AMG GTs that wowed buyers with versions such as the AMG GT R. The new GT is powered by an improved version of the same 4.0-liter V-8 engine that was used in previous generations; the new engine also powers a Mercedes-AMG SL that was resurrected last year.
The most major change for the 2017 model is the optional 2+2 seating configuration, which allows for two additional passengers—if they’re little enough to get into the cramped rear quarters. (According to a news release, they should be “less than 5 feet tall.”) AMG-performance all-wheel drive is now standard, as is a retractable rear spoiler that integrates into the trunk lid. When traveling at speeds greater than 50 mph, the spoiler can automatically assume five various angles to improve handling and reduce drag. Standard features include a revised ride control suspension with roll stabilization and rear-axle steering.
Mercedes has not published the vehicle’s weight, but with its additional seats, all-wheel drive, rear-wheel steering, and nine-speed transmission, it is anticipated to weigh more than its predecessor’s 3,600 pounds.
The debut follows a successful year for the German brand. Mercedes is seeing great results after saying in 2022 that it will cater to richer clientele by discontinuing some of its entry-level vehicles. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, the average selling price of a Mercedes is almost 40% more than in 2019.
The AMG GT will go on sale in the first half of 2024, competing with cars like the more common Porsche 911 Turbo, a $197,200 coupe with 572hp that hits 60 mph in 2.7 seconds.
