Mercedes Unveils Entry-Level AMG GT Coupe

With a 2-liter engine, mild 48V hybridization, and two-wheel drive, one might believe they’re looking at the technical sheet of a Mercedes A-Class.

But we are indeed looking at a diabolical Mercedes-AMG GT 43, simply a bit more reasonable than previous models. The combination of a relatively lightweight four-cylinder engine on the front axle and rear-wheel drive architecture promises an agile and dynamic coupe. Ultimately, a bit of lightness can only benefit this model, which still weighs in at 1,700 kg.

To deliver high performance, Mercedes chose a turbocharged 2-liter inline four-cylinder engine. A much more noble machine than one might imagine, as AMG manages to extract 422 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. The entry-level version looks pretty impressive! It’s enough to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and propel the elegant coupe to a top speed limited to 280 km/h.

Under no circumstances a discounted AMG!

The uniqueness of this engine lies in the electric exhaust gas turbocharger, a technology derived from Formula 1. It is powered via the 48-volt onboard electrical system and delivers an additional 10 kW (14 hp). This system also functions as a mild hybrid, which besides temporarily boosting performance, also enables features such as coasting and energy recovery during deceleration. The 48-volt technology also enhances comfort, as transitions between start-stop and coasting modes are nearly imperceptible.

Mercedes promises an immediate throttle response, particularly during charge change phases. The GT 43 can thus jump from turn to turn with the agility and briskness of a gazelle, benefiting from the broad range of use offered by its 9-speed gearbox. The chassis and braking system are certainly the highlights of this AMG, as they were developed to handle much more horsepower.

Visually, the 43 features a simplified front end and narrower front and rear fenders, paired with “only” 19-inch wheels. What it loses in sportiness it more than makes up for in elegance with much cleaner lines, up to the rear block which features round dual exhaust outlets instead of the usual trapezoidal tips. A real success!

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