While the Mercedes-AMG GT family has benefitted from numerous updates, a limited edition, rang-topping Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro has broken cover at the Los Angeles Motor Show with a host of modifications that make it a formidable track weapon. Particular attention was paid to suspension, lightweight construction, aerodynamics and visual appeal.
Its hardcore look is communicated with a reworked front apron with 2 carbon fibre-coated flics on the sides which stabilise the front splitter while added aerodynamic components are seen at the rear wheels arches to reduce front axle lift. Active air regulation up front and a large rear aerofoil are standard. The aerofoil has a spoiler lip for added downforce and is mounted on aluminium brackets.
The AMG GT R Pro benefits from numerous upgrades to ensure blistering on-track performance.
A new AMG coil-over suspension is fitted, allowing the driver to adjust the compression and rebound of the dampers via dial on the damper. The front axle features a lightweight, adjustable carbon fibre torsion bar while the rear is equipped with an adjustable hollow steel bar. Stopping power is provided courtesy of composite ceramic brakes and the AMG GT R Pro rides lightweight AMG Performance 5-spoke alloy wheels in titanium grey.
The track-ready interior features lightweight leather bucket seats with 4-point harnesses and a roll cage.
Powered by a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 engine, the Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro serves up 430 kW and 700 Nm using a 7-speed dual clutch transmission ensures lightning-fast shifts, accelerating the AMG GT R Pro from zero to 100 kph in 3.6 seconds before reaching a top speed of 318 kph Fuel consumption for the AMG GT R is rated at 12.4 L/100km, which is slightly more than the claimed 11.4 L/100km fuel consumption figure of the standard GT R.
The AMG GT family has been updated and is expected to go on sale locally in 2019.
The updated AMG GT family now benefits from features found in the AMG GT 4-door. The fully digital instrument display comprising a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 10.25-inch multimedia display will now feature in the GT family. Coloured display now feature on the centre console along with a stylised V8 design.
The AMG GT family will now also have an AMG performance steering wheel with Touch Control buttons. A round controller with an integrated display giving the driver access to AMG drive programmes. For track enthusiasts, AMG Track Pace is standard with the Comand online system and will capture driving data for you to analyse and improve your driving.
In terms of styling, AMG GT models now adopt new light controls for the LED headlights as in the GT 4-door with a tri-functional arched light guide which serves as a daytime running light, navigation light and turn signal.
The rear apron of the AMG GT, AMG GT S and AMG GT C has been redesigned with a new black diffuser insert and the tailpipe covers has also been reworked. The AMG GT and AMG GT S also gain a new black grained sill cover while new light Y-spoke alloy wheels in soft black can be had. New 10-double-spoked forged wheels in titanium grey or soft black are now offered on the AMG GT, AMG GT S and AMG GT C. Parktronic park assistant will be offered as an option with a reverse and front camera.
The AMG GT family will also be offered in brilliant blue magno and two-tone leather upholstery can also be specified.
The AMG Dynamic Select which includes modes such as Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Race, will now offer AMG Dynamics which will control power distribution to the rear axle and manage steering characteristics to improve handling and agility. AMG Dynamics incorporates 4 modes including Basic, Advanced, Pro and Master.
Mercedes-Benz South Africa hasconfirmed thatthe updated AMG GT Coupe, AMG GT C Roadster and the AMG GT 4-door will arrive in the first half of 2019 while the AMG GT R Pro will arrive in the second half of 2019.
Buy a new or used Mercedes-AMG GT on Cars.co.za
Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe (2018) International Launch Review
Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door (2018) International Launch Review
Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Production Begins
BMW M4 DTM vs Mercedes-AMG GTR – Drag Race