Mercedes-AMG reveals 4-door version of the GT

Mercedes-AMG is well known for producing barn-storming models that have blow-your-socks-off performance and provide lots of fun – for two people.

But the Affalterbach-based manufacturer has decided that the whole family should come along for the ride, too – and its solution is the new GT 4-door.

Combining sports car technology with everyday practicality, the GT 4-door carries on in the same vein as the two-seat GT by having driving dynamics inspired by track cars and a hugely powerful engine under the bonnet.

Revealed at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, the model will be put on sale in the summer with prices yet to be confirmed – but expect something in excess of £90,000.

Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG, said: “The new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé blends the impressive racetrack dynamism of our two-door sports car with maximum suitability for everyday use.

“It has a unique way of embodying our brand core, “Driving Performance” and with its systematic configuration it will attract new customers for Mercedes-AMG.”

Mercedes-AMG will offer this all-new model with one of three turbocharged powertrains – the 3.0-litre six-cylinder ’53′ with 429bhp and two units based on a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8. The first is fitted to the ’63′ version that kicks out 576bhp, while the second is installed in the top-end ’63 S’, which has 630bhp at its disposal.

The 53 unit is special as it includes an electric motor to improve efficiency and cut down on emissions, while also coming with a 48V electrical system to power the lights, infotainment and cockpit systems.

The GT 4-door comes with 4Matic+ all-wheel drive with torque distribution, with all power sent to the wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Every version can get from 0-60mph in less than 4.5 seconds, with the 63 S capable of smashing past 60mph in three seconds flat. Each model can get over 177mph, but the top speed of the 63 S is a staggering 195mph.

The design of the 4-door follows on from the standard GT, but the addition of the back row of seats means that it has a longer roof line to accommodate them. It keeps the long bonnet that includes the slim LED headlights and latest AMG grille at the front, while at the back it has a deployable rear wing that fits in neatly with the body shape when not in use.

Inside, the designers maintained the “fighter jet-like feel” for the driver’s seat – as all the equipment is tilted towards it – but have added new features, such as a performance steering wheel with touch-sensitive buttons, Mercedes’ dual-12.3-inch Widescreen Cockpit display and a fleet of premium fixtures.

For it to be family functional, you can choose from four- and five-seat configurations, but all versions come with 365 litres of boot space, with an additional 60-litre compartment underneath. Fold down the rear bench and you get 1,324 litres.

But it wouldn’t be an AMG model without some extra sports focus, and the 4-door includes a limited-slip differential on the rear axle, active rear-wheel steering and a high-performance braking system.

An optional Aerodynamics package adds more detailed elements to improve the airflow over and under the car, including a larger front splitter and extra aerofoils.

by Jack Healy