The AMG GT high-peformance sports car is now vying for customers’ attention with lots of sharper details and the new, limited Edition AMG GT R PRO. The two-door AMG GT Coupés and Roadsters are bestowed not only with updates on the exterior but also the integrated dynamic control system AMG DYNAMICS for even more agility, the new AMG Performance steering wheel, a centre console with innovative display buttons and a fully digital Instrument Display with AMG-specific display styles and content.
“The AMG GT embodies the core of our brand, “Driving Performance”, in a unique way. At its debut in September 2014, it not only turned the heads of customers and sports car enthusiasts, but also created new dimensions in the competitive environment. In order to continue this success story we have now equipped the two-door models with numerous innovations from the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé”, says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The basic layout of the AMG GT portfolio with its front mid-engine concept and transmission in transaxle configuration at the rear axle enables an advantageous slightly rear-biased weight distribution. In conjunction with the vehicle’s low centre of gravity, this translates into extremely agile handling and permits high cornering speeds. The AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine delivers ample power right from the low rev range and enables outstanding performance. At the same time, the two-seater is a straightforward, comfortable and reliable companion for everyday motoring thanks to its easily accessible luggage compartment, a high level of comfort on long journeys and the extensive Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive assistance systems.
Exterior innovations
The visual update for the coupé and roadster includes new front and tail lamps as well as a new design idiom for the tailpipe trims. The new light controls of the LED High Performance headlights now display parallels with the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé and therefore further strengthen the AMG GT family connection with the two-door models. A tri-functional, arched light guide takes on the functions of daytime running light, navigation light and turn signals.
The multi-chamber reflector system with three single reflectors each for dipped beam and main beam not only ensures optimal illumination of the roadway, but also gives the AMG GT a sporty, dynamic look which gains even more optical depth as the result of the black background.
The light of the LED tail lights also appears even deeper set and sportier through the dark background.
From the back the new look of the rear apron is striking, its sporty black diffuser insert was redesigned for the AMG GT, AMG GT S and AMG GT C. The twin tailpipe trims are now adapted to the lines of the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé round on the AMG GT and trapezoidal on the AMG GT S and AMG GT C. The rear design of the AMG GT R keeps its distinctive shape.
The AMG GT and AMG GT S are getting a new black grained sill cover on the bottom section. This makes for an extra-dynamic look. In conjunction with optional exterior packages, trim elements add individual highlights in high-gloss black, matt black, high-gloss chrome or carbon fibre.
Also, on request, the AMG GT and AMG GT S are available with a new y-spoke light-alloy wheel in matt black with a high-sheen finish. In addition, as an option for the AMG GT, AMG GT S and AMG GT C new 10-twin-spoke forged wheels in titanium grey with high-sheen finishes or in matt black with a high-sheen rim flange are available.
The Parking Package is available as a new option, increasing suitability for everyday use when manoeuvring. It encompasses the Parking Assist PARKTRONIC, a reversing and front camera.
One more sign of a family connection is also the 2-door AMG GT, now available in brilliant blue magno, which was introduced with the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé. Other extras are two-tone leather upholstery in exclusive nappa style in silver pearl/black.
Interior innovations
As in the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé, the new telematics architecture in the two-door AMG GT models makes the innovative, standard fully digital Instrument Display with a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch multimedia display in the centre of the instrument panel possible. The instrument cluster offers an entirely new screen design with the three AMG-specific display styles “Classic”, “Sporty” or “Supersport”. In the “Supersport” mode, there is also extensive additional information specific to AMG, such as a prompt borrowed from motorsport to shift up in manual transmission mode.
The newly designed visualisations in the multimedia display enable further vehicle functions to be experienced even better, e.g. with an animated presentation of the driving assistance, vehicle and communication systems.
Via the left-hand touch control button on the steering wheel, preferred information can also be displayed on the left or right-hand side of the instrument panel – for example the classic speedometer and rev counter, navigation information or assistance systems through to detailed engine data. Sporty drivers especially can fade in a g-force display or the current output and torque values.
Innovative display buttons in the centre console
The eye-catching feature in the interior is the centre console with its stylised V8 design, not only putting the spotlight on the brand’s performance claim but also perfectly fulfilling functional requirements. The 2-door AMG GT is now also getting the innovative, coloured display buttons. They integrate the display and steering of transmission logistics, chassis ESP®, exhaust system, rear spoilers and start stop function. Using TFT technology the display buttons use intuitively comprehensible symbols to show the function and are easy to operate with just a small tap of the finger. The display buttons are supplemented by the two rocker switches for the drive programmes and volume control.
New generation of AMG steering wheels with steering-wheel buttons
With the facelift the 2-door AMG GT is given the new AMG performance steering wheel, which celebrated its debut in the four-door variant and is also available in other current AMG models. It is characterised by its sporty design, a flattened bottom section with a heavily contoured rim and intuitive operation. The steering wheel cover in black nappa leather on the AMG GT base model is perforated at the sides to ensure optimum grip.
On the AMG GT S and AMG GT C the steering wheel comes as standard with a rim in black nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre. In the AMG GT R the rim is completely covered with DINAMICA microfibre. The AMG steering wheel also comes in black nappa leather with trim in black piano gloss, as well as DINAMICA microfibre with elements in high-gloss carbon fibre. In any case the galvanised gearshift paddles on the steering wheel allow an even sportier driving style with manual gear shift.
All 2-door AMG GT models have the standard new AMG steering wheel buttons. These consist of a round controller with an integrated display beneath the right-hand steering-wheel spoke, plus two vertically positioned colour display buttons with switches beneath the left-hand steering-wheel spoke.
The AMG drive programmes can be triggered via the controller. The selected setting is shown on the colour LCD display directly integrated in the controller. The two freely configurable display buttons and the additional switches on the left-hand side enable further AMG functions to be controlled directly on the steering wheel. This means that the driver can concentrate fully on dynamic driving without having to take their hands off the wheel.
Each required function can be depicted on the display icon and its switch is tapped by the driver to set the respective function. So the two individually preferred AMG functions can be defined exactly and the settings changed with just one tap of the finger.
The integrated Touch Control buttons can be used to control the functions of the digital dash and the multimedia display by means of horizontal and vertical swiping of the finger. The active distance assistant DISTRONIC and the cruise control can be adjusted on the control panels on the left. The control panels on the right are used to activate the voice control and telephone, to regulate the volume as well as other functions of the multimedia system.
Data logger for use on the race track: AMG TRACK PACE
The AMG TRACK PACE virtual race engineer, which records data when driving on closed-off race tracks, provides a significantly extended and even more precise scope of functions. AMG TRACK PACE is a standard part of the COMAND online infotainment system.
If this function is enabled, while driving on a race track a multitude of vehicle-specific sets of data (e.g. speed, acceleration) is recorded ten times per second. On top of this, lap and sector times are displayed, as well as the respective difference to a reference time. Because specific display elements are shown in green or red, the driver is able to see at a glance without reading numbers whether they are currently faster or slower than the best time.
After putting in some fast laps, the driver can use the data to analyse and, if necessary, improve their driving skills. In addition, acceleration and deceleration values (e.g. 0-100 km/h, ¼ mile, 100-0 km/h) can be measured and saved. Thanks to a newly developed algorithm which determines the vehicle position as precisely as possible, AMG TRACK PACE even detects when the circuit has been left or it has been shortened. This is done using GPS data as well as the sensors available in the vehicle (acceleration, gyroscope, steering angle, wheel speeds).
The data is displayed on the multimedia display and the digital dash. Well-known race tracks like, for example, the Nürburgring or Spa Francorchamps, are already stored. Furthermore, it is also possible to record your own circuits.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT technical innovation
The handling characteristics of the new AMG GT can be modified by selecting from the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs: “Slippery”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport+”, “RACE” and “Individual”. This changes important parameters such as engine and transmission response, steering characteristics, suspension damping, and sound. The programs are selected using the paddle in the centre console and then visualised in the instrument cluster and on the multimedia display.
- “Slippery”: The new “Slippery” drive program is optimised for slippery road conditions, with reduced power and a flat torque curve.
- “Comfort”: comfortable and fuel-efficient driving, e.g. thanks to very early upshifts. Suspension and steering are set up for an emphasis on comfort.
- “Sport”: sporty characteristics thanks to a more agile response to the driver’s accelerator pedal input, shorter shift times, earlier downshifts and significantly more emotive gearshifts owing to double de-clutching. A more dynamic suspension and steering set-up.
- “Sport+”: extremely sporty characteristics thanks to an even more agile throttle response, increased acoustic emphasis on double de-clutching during downshifts as well as selective torque control on upshifts with cylinder suppression for optimal shift times. Increased idle speed for faster pulling away. An even more dynamic suspension, steering and powertrain set-up.
- “Individual”: individual adjustment of the drive system, transmission, AMG DYNAMICS, suspension and exhaust system.
- “RACE” (not for AMG GT base model): The “RACE” drive program is designed for highly dynamic driving on closed race circuits. In this program, all of the parameters are configured for maximum performance.
AMG DYNAMICS technical innovation
As a new feature in the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT “Slippery”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport Plus”, “RACE” and “Individual” drive programmes, the 2-door AMG GT now also comes with AMG DYNAMICS. This integrated driving dynamics regulation expands the functions of ESP® (electronic stability programme) to exact dosing of power distribution at the rear axis and the characteristics of steering. In this way the AMG GT becomes even more agile at its highest stability. In the first place AMG DYNAMICS optimises the transverse dynamics by a higher lateral acceleration, better traction and load change reactions.
Particularly remarkable: AMG DYNAMICS calculates how the vehicle will react. To do this, the system uses the available sensors that detect the speed, the steering angle or the yaw rate, for instance. Based on the pilot-control principle it is possible to anticipate the vehicle behaviour on the basis of the driver’s actions and the data from the sensors. The control system reacts in this way even before the driver – and with no noticeable or intervention of the system. The driver gets a very authentic driving feel with high cornering dynamics and optimum traction as well as high stability and predictable handling. Even experienced drivers receive optimum assistance without feeling patronised by the system.
The different AMG DYNAMICS modes are named “Basic”, “Advanced”, “Pro” and “Master”. The drive program selection indicated on the multimedia display now shows the new AMG DYNAMICS symbol with the relevant additional term instead of the previous ESP®symbol.
- “Basic” is assigned to the “Slippery” and “Comfort” drive programs. Here the AMG GT demonstrates exceptionally stable handling characteristics with high yaw damping.
- “Advanced” is activated in the “Sport” programme. The AMG GT is then neutrally balanced. The lower yaw damping, lower steering angle requirement and enhanced agility support dynamic manoeuvres such as driving on winding country roads.
- “Pro” (abbreviation for “professional”) is part of the “Sport+” programme. In “Pro” the driver receives even more assistance for dynamic driving manoeuvres while agility and precision are further enhanced when taking corners.
- “Master” (only available for GT C, GT S and GT R) is connected to the RACE drive programme. “Master” mode is aimed at drivers who want to experience dynamism and the driving enjoyment on closed-off circuits. “Master” offers an extremely neutral vehicle balance, low steer angle requirement and more agile steering. In this way, “Master” ensures maximum agility and fully exploits the dynamic potential.
Closer to motor racing than ever before
The AMG GT R PRO was modified in numerous details to deliver even more racetrack performance: the optimised specific power, the new suspension, the aerodynamic fine-tuning resulting in even more downforce overall, lightweight-design bucket seats and lightweight-design wheels contribute to the enhanced driving dynamics and faster lap times on the racetrack. The combination of aluminium spaceframe, V8 biturbo engine with dry sump lubrication, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, differential lock, sports suspension with aluminium double wishbone axles and the low kerb weight forms the basis for the ultimate in Driving Performance.
“No other production model by Mercedes-AMG is presently as close to motor racing as the new, limited AMG GT R PRO. A lot of experience from our current GT3 and GT4 motorsport activities entered into its development. The agile responses to all driver commands and the overall performance now deliver even more of that incomparable feeling that our racing drivers experience on the racetrack”, says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The new AMG coil-over suspension offers even more choices for tailoring the set-up to the particular circuit. As in professional motorsport, the driver is not only able to set the spring preload length mechanically, but can now also adjust the compression and rebound of the dampers. This is done quickly and precisely without tools via a click system with an integral adjustment dial on the damper. The compression rate is adjusted separately for high-speed and low-speed movements. This means that the settings can be dialled-in for slow and fast compression movements as is common practice in motorsport. This allows influencing the body dive and roll as the well as the traction of the AMG GT R PRO even more selectively.
The front axle is fitted with an adjustable torsion bar made of lightweight carbon fibre. Its counterpart at the rear is made of steel, is likewise adjustable and also saves weight due to its hollow tube design.
The AMG GT R is already fitted with Uniball spherical bearings at the lower wishbones of the rear axle. The AMG GT R PRO now gets these bearings also for the upper wishbones. They are significantly more wear-resistant than conventional wishbone bearings and due to their design have no play, which means toe-in and camber do not change even under high loads. As a result, the AMG GT R PRO can be driven with even more precision.
The carbon-fibre shear panel in the underbody of the rear end also contributes to the high handling precision. This lightweight and rigid element stiffens the rear-end structure and as a result adds even more stability to the body shell.
The electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts were also retuned to further increase the agility and deliver high-precision response and clear feedback.
The standard delivery scope of the AMG GT R PRO also includes the Track Package (not for USA, Canada and China). It comprises a roll-over protection system, enclosed 4-point safety harnesses for driver and front passenger, and a 2-kg fire extinguisher (both scopes exclusively for use on the racetrack). The bolted steel roll cage of the roll-over protection system consists of a main roll bar, a brace for mounting the harnesses, two rear braces as well as a diagonal X-brace in the rear end. The system further increases the already excellent vehicle rigidity and thus also has a positive influence on the vehicle’s driving dynamics. In the USA, Canada and China, the AMG GT R PRO is fitted with matte carbon-fibre trim elements and the boot brace in place of the Track Package.
Lightweight construction: carbon-fibre components and new forged wheels
In addition to a host of carbon-fibre components, weight is saved by the standard-fit ceramic high-performance compound braking system exclusively with black painted brake callipers as well as by the AMG bucket seats made of clear-coated carbon fibre (not for USA, Canada and China). In the USA, Canada and China, the AMG GT R PRO is equipped with AMG Performance seats as standard. The lightweight AMG Performance 5-double-spoke forged wheels are exclusively painted titanium grey and feature a rim flange with high-sheen finish.
Aerodynamics: redesigned front apron with additional flics
The aerodynamic fine-tuning increases the overall performance of the AMG GT R PRO as well. The redesigned front apron was fitted with two flics at the sides made of clear-coated carbon fibre. The lower flics transition virtually seamlessly into the front splitter, which was extended further forward and is held by small metal braces – they stabilise the front splitter at higher speeds. In addition, they are another visual homage to the role models from motorsport.
The louvres (air slots) in the front wings effectively vent the wheel arches and consequently contribute to reducing front-axle lift. At the rear, a clear-coated carbon-fibre aero element at the wheel arch on either side rises up vertically almost to the level of the tail lamps. The interplay of all these measures significantly reduces front-axle lift without negatively impacting the aerodynamic conditions at the rear axle.
The active aerodynamics profile in the underbody, the AIRPANEL active air regulation system in the front apron and the large aerofoil on the hatch, all known from the AMG GT R, are part of the standard specification. In addition, the rear aerofoil is fitted with a spoiler lip (gurney), which increases downforce at the rear axle, and now sits on milled aluminium brackets that underscore the proximity to motor racing.
Motor racing looks: Carbon Package, new carbon-fibre roof, car wrap
The AMG GT R PRO does not only drive like a racing car, it also looks the part. The standard-fit Carbon Package I with front splitter, fins in the wings, trim strips in the side sills and a diffuser with high-quality clear-coated carbon-fibre finish emphasise the proximity to motorsport, as does the redesigned carbon-fibre roof with lowered centre.
The special status is also underscored by the car wrap with racing stripes running over the bonnet, roof and hatch as well as along the sides of the vehicle. This car wrap is light green exclusively in combination with the selenite grey paint finish. For all other colour variants, the stripes come in matt dark grey. Optionally, the car wrap can also be omitted completely.
Even before the world premiere, the new AMG GT R PRO has impressively demonstrated its performance potential on the racetrack: In early November, AMG brand ambassador and AMG GT3 racing driver Maro Engel completed a circuit of the Nürburgring North Loop in exactly 7.04.632 minutes driving a still disguised AMG GT R PRO. This considerably bettered the previous time for the AMG GT R – and at an autumnal ambient temperature of 12 degrees, it demonstrated the great potential of the current AMG flagship model.
The best time was measured precisely by the independent experts of “wige SOLUTIONS”. An independent notary confirmed the lap time, and that the vehicle’s condition was in accordance with regulations.
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