Unleashing Power and Luxury Down Under- The Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé
By Jeff Gibbs
The stage was set at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the grand finale of Monterey Car Week, where the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe made its global debut. Against the backdrop of California’s picturesque coast, this stunning performance machine left an indelible mark on the automotive world.
A Heritage Reimagined
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While the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe retains the classic long-bonnet, cab-backward design that characterised its predecessor, it has undergone a complete transformation. This second-generation coupe shares the majority of its hardware with the new Mercedes-AMG SL roadster, a vehicle already turning heads in Australian showrooms.
This new GT is the fifth dedicated AMG model, joining the ranks of the SL, the GT 4-Door sedan, the original GT, and the iconic gull winged SLS coupe. It’s exclusively available as a coupe, while the new SL takes over the role of the GT Roadster, now providing four seats in both top-end two-door models.
Bigger, More Practical, and Luxurious
The 2024 AMG GT boasts a more substantial footprint, making it a more practical grand tourer. Its dimensions have expanded, measuring 4728mm in length, 1984mm in width, 1354mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2700mm. This growth offers not only more interior space but also a roomier luggage compartment, making it a genuine long-distance grand tourer rather than a strict two-seater sports car.
The larger glasshouse enhances visibility in all directions, contributing to a more enjoyable driving experience. Additionally, the inclusion of optional 2+2 seating and a generous boot capacity ranging from 321 to 675 litres (with rear seats folded) further amplifies its practicality. An electrically operated tailgate with hands-free operation adds convenience to the mix.
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe Interior.
Heart-Pounding Power
Under the hood, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe offers two variants of AMG’s 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, meticulously handcrafted at Affalterbach, in line with the “one man, one engine” philosophy. The range-topping GT 63 4MATIC+ delivers a staggering 430 kW of power and a massive 800 Nm of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 315 km/h.
The GT 55 4MATIC+, with 350 kW and 700 Nm of torque, is no slouch either, accomplishing the 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.9 seconds and hitting a top speed of 295 km/h. Both versions feature AMG’s SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G nine-speed automatic transmission, offering precise and quick gear shifts.
Innovative Aero Dynamics
The 2024 AMG GT Coupe comes equipped with a cutting-edge active aerodynamics package designed to balance the often-conflicting requirements of drag reduction, downforce, cooling efficiency, and low wind noise. The AIRPANEL system features two parts – vertical slats hidden behind the lower air intake and horizontal louvres behind the upper air intake. These elements remain closed to minimise air resistance but open to maximise airflow when extra cooling is needed, optimising both performance and efficiency.
Furthermore, an adjustable rear spoiler integrated into the boot lid adapts its position based on road speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, and steering angle, ensuring stability, and minimising air resistance.
Dynamics and Handling
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe offers an array of dynamic technologies to enhance the driving experience. The AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode selector includes settings like Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport +, Individual, and RACE, catering to a wide range of driving preferences.
The new GT features a fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system with an electromechanically controlled clutch, allowing it to be driven as a traction-oriented all-wheel drive or as a pure rear-wheel drive. Its multi-link suspension, forged aluminium components, and active roll stabilisation ensure excellent stability and response at high speeds.
Adding to its agility, active rear-axle steering further improves manoeuvrability at low speeds and stability at high speeds. Composite brake discs, directional perforation for heat dissipation, and a range of wheel and tire options ensure exceptional stopping power and control.
2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe drivetrain.
Interior Elegance and Technology
Inside the cabin, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe offers a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. The centre console features an 11.9-inch multimedia touch-screen with the MBUX operating system, while the digital instrument cluster allows for personalised main views, including specific layouts for ‘AMG Performance’ and ‘AMG TRACK PACE.’
This “hyper analogue” cockpit combines classic design elements with the latest digital interfaces, creating an environment that immerses the driver in both luxury and technology.
Conclusion
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe is more than just a car; it’s a symphony of power, precision, and practicality. With its refined aesthetics, remarkable powertrain options, and cutting-edge aerodynamics, it redefines the boundaries of grand touring. As it prepares to make its European debut in early 2024 and arrive in Australian showrooms soon after, the AMG GT Coupe marks a new chapter in the storied history of Mercedes-AMG, offering a thrilling driving experience for those who demand the best.
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