Mercedes will reportedly launch a new track-inspired variant of its AMG GT sports car, called the AMG GT R. It will be lighter and more powerful than other versions of the two-seater coupe.
Reports add that the new Mercedes AMG GT R uses heavily reworked underpinnings similar to that used for the GT3 race car version of this coupe.
Body and engine upgrades
Design differences include a redesigned front bumper with a prominent splitter, a new front grille, an enlarged central air duct, an enlarged carbon fibre rear wing and a large hexagonal-shaped central exhaust. The result of all the changes is a lighter and more aerodynamic sports car.
Rivalling the likes of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, the AMG GT R uses the same 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine as other versions of the sports car but it’s rumoured to boast around 570bhp. That’s a considerable boost compared to the 456bhp figure offered by the standard AMG GT, or even the 503bhp output from the GT S model.
Possible performance and price
Whereas the AMG GT S covers the 0-62mph sprint in just 3.8 seconds, the GT R will likely take around 3.5 seconds to do the same sprint. As well as being faster, the AMG GT R is set to feature upgraded, adjustable suspension springs as well as improved dampers.
Pricing for the Mercedes AMG GT R has yet to be confirmed. Given that production is expected to be far more limited than other derivatives of the coupe, expect the R to cost considerably more than the current £110,500 asking price for the GT S.
The Mercedes AMG GT R is expected to make its public debut this June at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
