Latest news with #GT63
TimesLIVE
6 hours ago
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance embodies best of brand
Slip up once and that is all your critics will remember. Mercedes-AMG knows a thing or two about this notion. Its biggest misstep in the past few years was deciding to neuter the C 63. Something we have not let them forget. What was once a proud, roaring lion became a whimpering house cat with a four-cylinder engine adopted from the brand's junior tier of performance compacts. Yes, the intense hybridisation mostly made up for the reduced displacement, from output and acceleration perspectives, but the W206 Mercedes-AMG model sorely lacks in the area of emotional appeal. Enthusiasts and critics lamented the shift and judging by the classified listings, dealerships are struggling to give them away. For the past while, the disappointing nature of the current C 63 was all most could think of in discussions about Mercedes-AMG. Nevermind the excitement and good that has come out of the storied performance division since its inception — and that with the 2.0 l C 63, the brand continues to offer six- and eight-cylinder options. This week, at the launch of the GT 63 S E Performance, misgivings about the direction of Mercedes-AMG were put to rest as the new flagship coupé had media attendees in an excited mood. From the outset (unlike that C 63), this is not a car you have to rationalise, leaving you indifferent as you hear corporate explanations about deficiencies in displacement. No, this is a snarling V8 brawler, outwardly aggressive, uncompromising in performance, loaded with the requisite level of luxury and plushness expected from a high-tier offering donning the three-pointed star. It is a proper Mercedes-AMG, finish and klaar, a representation of the brand readjusting its crown. It carries quite a premium. A base price of R4,369,267 gets you in, which includes a five-year/100,000km maintenance plan. The average buyer is likely to add a bit more to that basic sticker, with various options, paint choices and cabin trimmings on offer. Like any good supercar ought to, the two-door GT 63 leaves you with a sense of wonderment at first look. From fearsome, scowling Panamericana grille, ground-hugging and wide stance, muscular haunches and huge rollers, the aesthetic execution fits the bill as a 'race car for the road' nicely. Its cabin is much like that of the SL, snug, digitised, but with the expected level of opulence. Our test unit had an ivory-hued theme, with sumptuous leather upholstery, extending to the door panels and fascia. The two tiny rear seats were fine for our backpacks, but anything with legs might struggle. No different to those tiny back pews in a Porsche 911. While the other Stuttgart sports car has the feel of a taut, wearable item from behind the wheel, the position in the power seat of the Mercedes-AMG GT is akin to taking the captain's spot on a speedboat: there is acres of prow space ahead. Pop the bonnet and you will find the familiar Mercedes-AMG 4.0 l, twin-turbocharged V8 nestled between those curvy wings. It fills the bay with its generous proportions, unlike the diminutive M139 unit we saw in the SL 43. A Mercedes-AMG sports car at this level needs a V8, non-negotiable. A flagship showcase of technical prowess in 2025 also needs some degree of electrification. So the 'E' in the S E Performance handle is represented by a 150kW/320Nm electric motor and 6.1kWh battery. The V8 engine in isolation delivers 450kW/850Nm. In tandem, the total output of 600kW/1,420Nm is good for a claimed 0-100km/h sprint time of 2.8 seconds. Not too long ago, such a feat was limited to the preserve of exotics such as the McLaren 720S. Before getting behind the wheel of the GT, we took laps in other Mercedes-AMG models, including the CLA 45 and that underwhelming C 63. Just to get reacquainted with Zwartkops and build-up for the main event. We also had a turn in the former Mercedes-AMG GT R, a completely different animal, built outright as a track weapon. That made for a truly exciting three laps around Zwartkops, but it also amplified the significant leap between the C190 and this new C192 chassis. The latest iteration of the GT is much more sophisticated, fitted with four-wheel steering and an active roll stabilisation system incorporating hydraulic components. The agility of the rear-axle steering felt pronounced on a circuit as short and technical as Zwartkops, while the benefits of roll stabilisation were clear, with the car cornering flat and unruffled by abrupt weight transfer. Truth be told, a layout such as Zwartkops is limiting for a car with such a scope of abilities. We hope to experience the GT in an environment such as Kyalami, with its fast sweeps, as we did the SL 43, for a full understanding of its handling competencies. The aural character of that famed M177 motor delights, just as it does in every Mercedes-AMG (and Aston Martin) product it services. Keeping the windows opened just a smidgen, the full V8 symphony is loud enough to overpower the intrusion of wind noise, with its truculent rhythm under hard acceleration and the customary loud barks on downshift. Powerful, imposing, technologically sophisticated and without relinquishing emotive appeal, the new GT 63 S E Performance delivers just what you would expect from a traditional Mercedes-AMG.
TimesLIVE
a day ago
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance embodies the best of the brand
Latest flagship coupé is visually aggressive with the credentials to match. Image: Supplied Slip up once and that is all your critics will remember. Mercedes-AMG knows a thing or two about this notion. Its biggest misstep in the past few years was deciding to neuter the C 63. Something we have not let them forget. What was once a proud, roaring lion became a whimpering house cat with a four-cylinder engine adopted from the brand's junior tier of performance compacts. Yes, the intense hybridisation mostly made up for the reduced displacement, from output and acceleration perspectives, but the W206 Mercedes-AMG model sorely lacks in the area of emotional appeal. Enthusiasts and critics lamented the shift and judging by the classified listings, dealerships are struggling to give them away. For the past while, the disappointing nature of the current C 63 was all most could think of in discussions about Mercedes-AMG. Nevermind the excitement and good that has come out of the storied performance division since its inception — and that with the 2.0 l C 63, the brand continues to offer six- and eight-cylinder options. This week, at the launch of the GT 63 S E Performance, misgivings about the direction of Mercedes-AMG were put to rest as the new flagship coupé had media attendees in an excited mood. From the outset (unlike that C 63), this is not a car you have to rationalise, leaving you indifferent as you hear corporate explanations about deficiencies in displacement. No, this is a snarling V8 brawler, outwardly aggressive, uncompromising in performance, loaded with the requisite level of luxury and plushness expected from a high-tier offering donning the three-pointed star. It is a proper Mercedes-AMG, finish and klaar, a representation of the brand readjusting its crown. It carries quite a premium. A base price of R4,369,267 gets you in, which includes a five-year/100,000km maintenance plan. The average buyer is likely to add a bit more to that basic sticker, with various options, paint choices and cabin trimmings on offer. Like any good supercar ought to, the two-door GT 63 leaves you with a sense of wonderment at first look. From fearsome, scowling Panamericana grille, ground-hugging and wide stance, muscular haunches and huge rollers, the aesthetic execution fits the bill as a 'race car for the road' nicely. Its cabin is much like that of the SL, snug, digitised, but with the expected level of opulence. Our test unit had an ivory-hued theme, with sumptuous leather upholstery, extending to the door panels and fascia. The two tiny rear seats were fine for our backpacks, but anything with legs might struggle. No different to those tiny back pews in a Porsche 911. While the other Stuttgart sports car has the feel of a taut, wearable item from behind the wheel, the position in the power seat of the Mercedes-AMG GT is akin to taking the captain's spot on a speedboat: there is acres of prow space ahead. Mighty V8 heart bolstered by hybrid technology. Image: Supplied Pop the bonnet and you will find the familiar Mercedes-AMG 4.0 l, twin-turbocharged V8 nestled between those curvy wings. It fills the bay with its generous proportions, unlike the diminutive M139 unit we saw in the SL 43. A Mercedes-AMG sports car at this level needs a V8, non-negotiable. A flagship showcase of technical prowess in 2025 also needs some degree of electrification. So the 'E' in the S E Performance handle is represented by a 150kW/320Nm electric motor and 6.1kWh battery. The V8 engine in isolation delivers 450kW/850Nm. In tandem, the total output of 600kW/1,420Nm is good for a claimed 0-100km/h sprint time of 2.8 seconds. Not too long ago, such a feat was limited to the preserve of exotics such as the McLaren 720S. Before getting behind the wheel of the GT, we took laps in other Mercedes-AMG models, including the CLA 45 and that underwhelming C 63. Just to get reacquainted with Zwartkops and build-up for the main event. We also had a turn in the former Mercedes-AMG GT R, a completely different animal, built outright as a track weapon. That made for a truly exciting three laps around Zwartkops, but it also amplified the significant leap between the C190 and this new C192 chassis. The latest iteration of the GT is much more sophisticated, fitted with four-wheel steering and an active roll stabilisation system incorporating hydraulic components. The agility of the rear-axle steering felt pronounced on a circuit as short and technical as Zwartkops, while the benefits of roll stabilisation were clear, with the car cornering flat and unruffled by abrupt weight transfer. Truth be told, a layout such as Zwartkops is limiting for a car with such a scope of abilities. We hope to experience the GT in an environment such as Kyalami, with its fast sweeps, as we did the SL 43, for a full understanding of its handling competencies. The aural character of that famed M177 motor delights, just as it does in every Mercedes-AMG (and Aston Martin) product it services. Keeping the windows opened just a smidgen, the full V8 symphony is loud enough to overpower the intrusion of wind noise, with its truculent rhythm under hard acceleration and the customary loud barks on downshift. Powerful, imposing, technologically sophisticated and without relinquishing emotive appeal, the new GT 63 S E Performance delivers just what you would expect from a traditional Mercedes-AMG.
IOL News
6 days ago
- Automotive
- IOL News
R4. 3m buys you the fastest-accelerating Mercedes-AMG ever: GT 63 S E Performance now on sale
The new Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance is now on sale in South Africa. Image: Supplied Sprinting from 0-100km/h in a claimed 2.8 seconds, the new Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance elevates the brand to almost hypercar levels of performance. Now on sale in South Africa, the new two-door flagship is yours for R4,369,287, and surprisingly that doesn't make it the most expensive Benz on the market. The G63 (R4.45m) and S63 (R4.6m) are even more detrimental to your cashflow. South Africans already had an early preview of the GT 63 S E at the 2025 Simola Hillclimb in Knysna in early May, where it won the road and supercar category with Clint Weston behind the wheel. But what makes it tick? The new S E Performance model, not to be confused with the regular GT 63, pairs a powerful 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with a 150kW rear-mounted electric motor for system outputs of 600kW and 1,420Nm. The result is a car that accelerates even quicker than the GT Black Series and F1-derived Mercedes-AMG One. The hybrid system produces a combined 600kW. Image: Supplied It's even ferocious at Gauteng altitudes, with independent performance tester Mark Jones having achieved a 0-100km/h time of 2.76 seconds at the Gerotek testing facility. For what it's worth, the new AMG hybrid model can also travel up to 13km on electric power alone, thanks to its 6.1 kWh battery, which is mounted above the rear axle. The new GT 63 hybrid model rolls on 21-inch alloy wheels with a five-spoke design, and also boasts some impressive aerodynamic features. Chief among these is an active aerodynamic element beneath the front bumper, that can extend downwards to create the Venturi effect, effectively sucking the car onto the road at higher speeds. Chassis wizardry includes AMG's Active Ride Control suspension with semi-active roll stabilisation, as well as active rear-axle steering that greatly enhances agility at low and high speeds. AMG's ceramic composite braking system, with six-piston callipers at the front, is part of the deal too. The GT 63 S E Performance cabin has unique displays. Image: Supplied Moving inside, the 2+2 cabin comes with electrically adjustable AMG sports seats with three massage programmes, and there is a large selection of upholsteries to choose from. Furthermore, the MBUX multimedia system has numerous AMG and hybrid-specific displays and functions. The new Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance is on sale now at a price of R4,369,287, which includes a five-year or 100,000km service and maintenance plan. IOL
Car and Driver
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview As Mercedes-AMG's serious two-door sports car, the GT Coupe walks a tightrope between the pillars of performance and luxury. The balance of those traits is largely trim-dependent, with the base rear-wheel drive, 416-horsepower GT43 leaning into a cushier, premium cruiser persona. At the top of the performance totem pole, all-wheel drive and a twin-turbo V-8 come standard, with 603 horsepower on offer from the track-focused GT63 Pro and a tarmac-tearing 805 horsepower available from the plug-in hybrid GT63 S E Performance. Regardless of the specifics, every GT Coupe artfully blends the attributes of an all-out performance car with a well-appointed luxury interior, modern tech, and stop-and-stare visual presence. What's New for 2026? For 2026, Mercedes-AMG has decided to build 52 special-edition GT63 models to celebrate its involvement with Joseph Kosinski's F1 movie. The GT63 APXGP Edition features unique design elements and Race Gold detailing that mimic the livery used on the fictional APXGP Formula 1 cars in the film. The car's base color is matte black, with gold accenting on the grille, door sills, and rear diffuser, and in a checkered-flag pattern on the front fenders. The gold motif continues with the APXGP's interior stitching and special 21-inch multi-spoke wheels. The rear of the special edition also features a unique pattern, with gray inlaid linework that appears to comprise the letters in APXGP. The AMG GT63 APXGP employs the same 577-hp twin-turbocharged V-8 used by the standard GT63, but its exclusivity will likely push its price tag well past the regular GT's estimated $192,000 base price. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe is expected to start around $108,000 and go up to $220,000 depending on the trim and options. GT43 $108,000 (est) GT55 $151,000 (est) GT63 $192,000 (est) GT63 Pro $198,000 (est) GT63 S E Performance $209,000 (est) GT63 APXGP Edition $220,000 (est) 0 $50k $100k $150k $200k $250k $300k $350k While none of the GT lineup can be considered inexpensive, the pricing schedule is on par with its chief rival, the Porsche 911. Numerous personalization options are on offer, including the AMG Chrome Package (additional chrome on the front fascia, front mudguards, and side sill trims), the AMG Night Package (gloss black front splitter, side sill trims, and mirror caps), and the Aero package that brings a fixed AMG rear wing, a larger rear diffuser, and revised air intakes, all finished in gloss black. Regardless, a racy car like this one is best enjoyed with plenty of power on tap, and for that reason, we prefer the GT63. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The 416-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder in the GT43 features a 48-volt hybrid starter/generator and an electric exhaust-gas turbocharger. The 48-volt electrical system keeps the turbo on spool, shortening the delay between throttle application and when exhaust gases take over to create maximum boost. The GT55 and GT63 models pulse with the power of Mercedes' twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 powerplant rated for 469 horsepower in the GT55 and 577 horses in the GT63. The GT63 Pro, which we drove on a racetrack in Spain, builds on the goodness of the GT63 by ramping up the output to 603 hp. It also features an improved cooling system designed for keeping temps in place on the track. The GT63 S E Performance adds an electric motor to the mix to boost combined horsepower to 805. All models use a nine-speed automatic transmission that replaces the typical torque converter setup with a clutch; the design is said to reduce weight and optimize response to accelerator input. The all-wheel drive GT55 and GT63 have the capability to route 100% of engine output to the rear wheels, and all three use an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential. Rear-wheel steering works to keep the GT on its toes, but during our first drive of the GT63 we found the GT's overall demeanor not quite as entertaining as the previous generation model. Our drive of the GT63 S E Performance hybrid revealed a significantly more powerful beast, with the monstrously quick acceleration from the electric motors offsetting this model's weight gain over the nonhybrid. For navigating tricky driveway entrances and speed bumps, the AMG GT's optional nose-lift system pops the front end up by 1.2 inches. 0–60-MPH Times Mercedes-AMG claims the GT43 will hit 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. In our testing, the GT63 got to 60 mph in a blistering 2.7 seconds. Coincidentally, that's the same time that Mercedes-AMG claims for the more powerful GT63 S E Performance model. Based on previous experience with the SL43 and SL63 convertibles, we can likely shave a tenth or two off each of those estimated figures in C/D testing. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG While the EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 AMG GT Coupe yet, the 2025 GT55 and GT63 models received estimates of 12 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. The GT43 was rated at 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, and the GT63 S E Performance managed 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined. Without any significant powertrain changes, the 2026 models should achieve similar results. When we get a chance, we'll take the GT Coupe on our 75-mph real-world highway fuel economy test and will update this story with test results. For more information about the GT Coupe's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo Part of the GT's appeal is its surprisingly spacious interior and solid outward visibility. Standard sport seats thread the needle between comfort and support, while available AMG sport seats offer increased lateral support, while three massage programs provide relief on long drives. A variety of nappa leather upholstery choices is on tap, including a diamond quilted pattern and leather-microfiber blend. Yes, the GT offers rear seating, but the space is tight like that in a Porsche 911 and best saved for emergency use or excess luggage. (In a serious example of understatement, Mercedes states that the rear seats 'are suitable for occupants less than five feet tall.') The powered rear hatch is hands-free, and the cargo area it opens to can handle two golf bags or 23.8 cubic feet of cargo. Infotainment and Connectivity An 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen is standard on all AMG GT Coupes, but some users may find its complex menu system frustrating. All models come with a wireless phone smartphone charging pad, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Burmester stereo system. An optional high-end Burmester 3D Surround Sound System with 15 speakers and 1,170 watts is available. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features A host of driver-assistance features will be offered, but right now it's unclear which will be standard and which will be optional. For more information about the GT Coupe's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include: Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Mercedes-AMG's standard warranty package is the least special thing about its cars, and it covers a basic four-year/50,000-mile period with no frills or extras. The GT Coupe's closest rival, the Porsche 911 Turbo, offers a complimentary scheduled maintenance program whereas the AMG does not. Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications Specifications 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance Vehicle Type: front-engine, rear-motor, rear/all-wheel-drive, 2- or 2+2-passenger, 2-door hatchback PRICE (C/D EST) Base: $200,000 POWERTRAIN twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve 4.0-liter V-8, 603 hp, 627 lb-ft + AC motor, 201 hp, 236 lb-ft (combined output: 805 hp, 1047 lb-ft; 4.8-kWh lithium-ion battery pack; 3.7-kW onboard charger) Transmissions: 9-speed automatic/2-speed automatic DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 106.3 in Length: 186.1 in Width: 78.1 in Height: 53.3 in Cargo Volume, Behind F/R: 19/6 ft 3 Curb Weight (C/D est): 4800 lb PERFORMANCE (C/D EST) 60 mph: 2.4 sec 100 mph: 6.0 sec 1/4-Mile: 10.1 sec Top Speed: 199 mph EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST) Combined/City/Highway: 14/12/19 mpg Combined Gasoline + Electricity: 45 MPGe EV Range: 7 mi More Features and Specs
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Mercedes-AMG Unveils GT 63 ‘APXGP Edition' as Tribute to Brad Pitt's Formula 1 Movie
Read the full story on Modern Car Collector Mercedes-AMG Unveils GT 63 'APXGP Edition' as Tribute to Brad Pitt's Formula 1 Movie With the Miami Grand Prix weekend revving into full gear, Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the limited-run GT 63 'APXGP Edition', a dramatic road-going tribute to the upcoming Apple Originals Formula 1 film starring Brad Pitt. The special edition coupe celebrates the cinematic world of high-speed racing portrayed in the film F1, directed by Top Gun: Maverick's Joseph Kosinski. The movie, shot during actual Grand Prix weekends, follows Pitt as a retired Formula 1 driver who returns to the paddock to mentor a young rising star played by Damson Idris. Seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton is among the film's producers, while Mercedes-AMG played a pivotal role in shaping the fictional APXGP team—both on and off the track. In addition to supplying cars for the production—including AMG GTs, SLs, G-Classes, and the FIA's safety and medical vehicles—Mercedes also contributed to the design of the film's F1-inspired race cars, which were built on Formula 2 chassis and dressed to resemble top-tier machines. The GT 63 APXGP Edition brings that fantasy to life for the street. Finished in matte black with race gold accents, the coupe features checkered-flag graphics near the fender vents, matching 21-inch matte gold forged wheels, and a full carbon-fiber aero kit with an aggressive fixed rear wing. A black chrome finish coats the grille, rear star, and AMG crest as part of the exclusive Night Edition Package. Though performance specs have not yet been revealed, the APXGP Edition is expected to mirror the top-of-the-line GT 63 variants, with a twin-turbo V8 and track-focused enhancements. Production will be extremely limited, and the car is expected to become a collectible among both motorsport fans and cinephiles. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
