Luxury Car

2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe First Review

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  • All-New Mercedes-AMG Performance Model
  • Offered in three configurations: GT 53 (429 hp), GT 63 (577 hp), GT 63 S (630 hp)
  • Powered by either a 3.0-liter twin-turbo in-line 6 or 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8
  • Combines AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with available active rear-axle steering
  • Feature highlights include all-new AMG Performance Steering Wheel with AMG buttons, AMG-specific 12.3-inch widescreen display, electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential, active aerodynamics, AMG Ride Control active suspension, available drift mode
  • Starting price around $100,000, available early 2019
  • UPDATE: 2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe Pricing

 

Mercedes-AMG has mastered the art of cranking the volume on Mercedes-Benz platforms. The all-new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe reflects AMG’s playbook. While this stylish sedan may share some structural elements with high-volume Mercedes-Benz products, the AMG GT 4-Door’s Affalterbach-inspired performance pedigree and exterior design sets it apart from any model to come out of Stuttgart. The GT 4-Door Coupe will come in three versions, starting with the V8-powered GT 63 and GT 63 S in early 2019, and followed by the 6-cylinder GT 53 arriving later in 2019.

Mercedes-AMG is badging the GT 4-Door Coupe as the ultimate family transporter, offering an unsurpassed combination of comfort and utility when hauling close relatives counterbalanced by ultimate track capabilities when simply hauling. Our driving evaluation of Mercedes-AMG’s GT 4-Door allowed us to review both aspects of this all-new model.

High-Performance Chassis

Engineering one vehicle to serve multiple roles is always a challenge. But it’s the kind of challenge German engineers love. The Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe sits on Mercedes-Benz’ MRA platform, which underpins several of the volume brand’s midsize sedans. However, the AMG GT 4-Door uses a unique combination of aluminum body panels and braces, plus high-strength steel in key areas, for increased chassis rigidity. There’s also a standard carbon fiber wall between the rear seat and cargo area for added chassis stiffness. Customers can opt to remove this divider if they want fold-down rear seats (at a slight cost to chassis rigidity).

This design gives the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe a solid foundation, onto which Mercedes-AMG adds 4MATIC all-wheel drive, an AMG Ride Control adaptive sport suspension, AMG Dynamic Select driving modes, rear-axle steering and an electronic limited-slip rear differential. The last two items are standard on the AMG GT 63 and 63 S, optional on the GT 53. These varying equipment levels, along with the inline 6 and V8 drivetrain variations, help account for the differences in curb weight between the three models.

The 6-cylinder AMG GT 53 weighs 4,334 pounds while the V8-powered GT 63 weighs 4,455 pounds and the GT 63 S weighs 4,488 pounds. These numbers are relatively light for a full-size, all-wheel-drive luxury sedan, but they don’t necessarily suggest fleet or nimble driving dynamics. Yet that’s exactly what the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe delivers. This is where German engineering, along with the latest in automotive technology, comes into play. The AMG GT’s combination of variable torque all-wheel drive, an active and adaptive suspension system, rear-axle steering (up to 1.3 degrees) and AMG’s Dynamic Select drive programs sets the stage for a spectrum of driving dynamics ranging from relaxed to race ready.

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High-Performance Drivetrains

The final, central component to the AMG GT 4-Door’s capabilities springs from its two advanced drivetrains.

The GT 53 uses a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6 making 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This engine’s internal combustion power is supplemented by Mercedes-AMG’s “EQ Boost” technology, adding a starter-generator using a 48-volt system and delivering up to 21 additional horsepower. This starter-generator recaptures energy from the car’s brake system while supplying added torque at low rpm and smoothing the engine’s start-stop functionality. Mercedes-AMG puts the GT 53’s zero-to-60 time at 4.4 seconds and top speed at an electronically-limited 174 mph. The EQ Boost’s 48-volt battery system also supplies additional power to the AMG GT 53’s traditional 12-volt system through a DC/DC converter.

The AMG GT 63 and 63 S utilize a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 making either 577 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque (63) or 630 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque (63 S). The twin turbos are located between the V8’s cylinder heads to minimize turbo lag and improve space efficiency. This engine also features AMG Cylinder Management, which can deactivate four cylinders for improved fuel efficiency under light throttle. A zero-to-60 time of 3.3 seconds, and top speed of 193 mph, confirms the AMG GT 63’s performance capabilities. Luxury sedan buyers seeking additional thrust can opt for the AMG 63 S, which gets to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and tops out at 195 mph.

Both the inline 6 and V8 utilize an AMG Speedshift 9-speed multi-clutch automatic transmission to send power to the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. As with the AMG GT’s suspension, throttle and all-wheel-drive settings, the transmission’s programming will change based on which of the GT’s drive programs is selected. While up to six driving modes are offered (“Slippery”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport+”, “Individual” and, on 63 S models, “Race”) it’s worth noting the transmission always starts in 1st gear to ensure responsive acceleration from a stop.

High-Performance Driving

We were given the opportunity to experience the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe on public roads and at a closed-course facility, but within minutes of getting behind the wheel it was obvious Mercedes-AMG had delivered on its mission of creating a high-performance premium luxury sedan. Despite the car’s two-ton curb weight, 16-foot length and nearly 7-foot width it never felt heavy or lethargic. Quite the opposite, in fact.

We navigated the tight, twisting roads in Texas’ hill country, west of Austin, with ease and confidence. Choosing the “Comfort” setting from the Dynamic Select drive programs gave the AMG GT 4-Door a relaxed nature without compromising steering precision or body roll control. These programs can be selected through the traditional Mercedes-Benz user interface on the center console, or through a dial on the new AMG performance steering wheel. There are also individual buttons on the center console dedicated to aspects of the car’s driving dynamics. These buttons let drivers quickly alter the AMG GT’s exhaust note, suspension settings, transmission behavior and stability control programming beyond the standard driving modes. There’s even a “Drift Mode” setting, optional on the AMG GT 63 and standard on the 63 S, that leverages the car’s technology for “slideways” action.

We toggled between the Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes during our street drive in and around Austin, but once we arrived at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) race facility we kept the AMG GT 63 S in the Sport+ and Race modes to maximize what Mercedes-AMG calls its AMG Dynamics technology. This technology leverages the AMG GT 4-Door’s all-wheel drive, rear-axle steering, rear-axle limited slip differential and stability control program to determine how the vehicle should react based on driver input. The system is designed to seamlessly enhance the AMG GT’s performance through subtle tweaks to power delivery and directional control.

At the track AMG Dynamics manifested through improved confidence as we navigated COTA’s highly technical 3.4-mile, 20-turn facility. The AMG GT 4-Door Coupe’s agile character on the street translated to race-car-like response at the track. The V8’s wide power band coordinated with 4MATIC all-wheel drive and rear-axle steering to fling the two-ton sedan up to speed. This made exiting low-speed turns and regaining triple-digit velocity effortless, as was slowing the GT with its optional carbon-ceramic brake system (6-piston front calipers and 14.2-inch composite front disc brake rotors are standard). We’re not sure how much of our track confidence came from personal driving ability versus AMG Dynamics’ helping hand, but not knowing is really the beauty of this technology, right?

Sleek Exterior Design

Mercedes-AMG calls its exterior design philosophy “Sensual Purity” as reflected in the AMG GT 4-Door’s flowing roofline, low greenhouse and integrated LED exterior lighting. The long, contoured hood sits above Mercedes’ trademark vertical grille slats and prominent tri-star badge. The frameless side windows and horizontal taillights maintain the car’s clean, minimalist profile and rear styling. Active aerodynamics in the AMG GT’s front bumper and rear spoiler turn form into function as they balance down force and airflow based on the GT’s speed and driver settings.

A variety of exterior design options include an Aerodynamics Package with a fixed rear wing and larger front splitter and rear diffuser. At 186 mph this package produces 66 pounds of down force without impacting the AMG GT’s top speed. Other exterior design options, including the Night Package with high-gloss black exterior trim and the Chrome Package with bright metal accents, can be combined with one of several AMG wheel designs in sizes ranging from 19 to 21 inches. Two Carbon-Fiber Packages and a range of exterior colors, including matte finishes are also offered.

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Luxurious and Functional Interior

The AMG GT 4-Door Coupe’s dual-nature driving dynamics are echoed by its multi-functional interior design. An exterior design this sporty might suggest compromised interior space, yet the cabin provides excellent head, shoulder and legroom for 6-foot adults in all four seating positions. The wrap-around dash flows into the front doors, featuring two large 12.3-inch displays bracketed by plush leather and contrasting stitching. The new AMG steering wheel offers Mercedes’ Touch Control Buttons, allowing for full control of the infotainment system without using the center console interface.

The seat design for both front and rear passengers further reflects the AMG GT’s dual purpose. These seats provide the same range of adjustments found on traditional luxury sedans, yet their racecar style and lateral bolstering support aggressive track driving at closed-course facilities like COTA. An Executive Rear Seat Package offers folding rear seat backs and a digital touch screen for full climate control and infotainment access. Rear passengers also benefit from multiple USB ports and wireless phone charging.

Among the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe’s premium features is a Burmester High-End 3D Surround Sound system with 23 speakers and 1450 watts. It features “3D” speakers in the roof liner that, according to Mercedes-AMG, can expand the sound stage beyond the GT’s interior dimensions. Another notable luxury touch premiering on the AMG GT 4-Door: “AMG#63” cabin fragrance, incorporated into the Energizing Comfort Package. The fragrance is said to offer “an appealing, sporty scent to match the spirit of the performance sports car brand.”

Porsche Panamera Competitor

One look at the new 2019 AMG GT 4-Door Coupe makes it clear which model Mercedes-AMG is targeting with this new performance sedan. The Porsche Panamera has served family-oriented performance enthusiasts for nearly a decade, and Mercedes-AMG wants in. Both cars offer a range of performance engines and capabilities wrapped in a sweeping four-dour coupe design. The AMG GT 4-Door is also a more extreme take on the Mercedes-Benz CLS, ensuring Mercedes-AMG has a entrant in the growing “four-door coupe” segment.

2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe Exterior and Interior Photos

Engine Choices

A turbocharged inline 6 or a twin-turbocharged V8 power the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, depending on model designation. Both engines are mated to a 9-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission, and both offer impressive acceleration and top speed numbers.

AMG GT 53: 3.0-liter turbocharged inline 6
Horsepower: 429 hp @ 6,100 rpm
Torque: 384 lb-ft @ 1,800-5,800 rpm, plus up to 21 hp from EQ Boost
Zero to 60 mph: 4.4 seconds
Top speed: 174 mph
City/Highway Fuel Economy: TBD City/Highway Fuel Economy: TBD City/Highway Fuel Economy: TBD

AMG GT 63: 3.0-liter Twin-Turbo V8
Horsepower: 577 hp @ 5,700-6,500 rpm
Torque: 384 lb-ft @ 1,800-5,800 rpm, plus up to 21 hp from EQ Boost
Zero to 60 mph: 3.3 seconds
Top Speed: 193 mph
City/Highway Fuel Economy: TBD

AMG GT 63 S: 3.0-liter Twin-Turbo V8
Horsepower: 630 hp @ 5,500-6,500 rpm
Torque: 384 lb-ft @ 1,800-5,800 rpm, plus up to 21 hp from EQ Boost
Zero to 60 mph: 3.1 seconds
Top Speed: 195 mph
City/Highway Fuel Economy: TBD

EPA fuel economy figures and final pricing for the 2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe will be announced at a later date.

Prices, Trims and Features

AMG GT 53
Price (MSRP): $TBD
3.0-liter turbocharged inline 6 engine with EQ Boost
9-speed automatic transmission
All-wheel drive
Dynamic Select driving modes
Sport Suspension
6-piston front brake calipers (silver)
AMG performance seats
Front wheels: 9.5 by19-inch alloy wheels; 255/45R19 tires
Rear wheels: 11 by 19-inch alloy wheels; 285/40R19 tires
Dual 12.3-inch displays
LED exterior lighting
Auto on/off headlights
Multi-view rearview camera

AMG GT 63
Starting price (MSRP): $TBD
4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with cylinder deactivation
Ride control air suspension with adjustable damping
6-piston front brake calipers (red)
Rear-axle steering (up to 1.3 degrees)
Electronically controlled rear-axle limited-slip differential

AMG GT 63 S
Starting price (MSRP): $TBD
In addition to the upgraded AMG GT 63 drivetrain:
AMG Performance Steering Wheel
6-piston front brake calipers (yellow)
Front wheels: 9.5 by 20-inch alloy wheels; 265/40ZR20
Rear wheels: 11 by 20-inch alloy wheels; 295/35ZR20
Race Mode
Drift Mode 

2019 AMG GT 4-Door Coupe Specs

Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
Drivetrain: Front engine, all-wheel drive
Wheelbase: 116.2 in
Overall Length: 199.2 in
Overall Height: 57.0 in
Overall Width: 81.5 in
Curb Weight: 4,334 lb to 4,488 lb
Turning Circle: 41.3 ft
Final Assembly: Sindelfingen, Germany