Headline GT Coupe is the 63 S which gets the 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 in 630bhp trim, backed up by 664lb ft of torque – both numbers outmuscling the 542bhp non-hybrid Panamera. Top speed is 196mph and 0-62 takes 3.2 seconds.
The V8 also serves in the GT 63 (577bhp, 0-62 in 3.4 seconds) and in the ‘entry’ model, the GT 53 with Mercedes’ new 3.0-litre straight six (429bhp) with EQ electric motor providing a further 22bhp boost. This one gets from 0-62 in 4.5 seconds and hits 177 flat out. All three models are 4Matic all-wheel drive and come with Mercedes’ Speedshift MCT nine-speed automatic transmission.
The wide-screen dashboard and interior are largely as per the new CLS as is the impressive roll call of hi-tech systems and features. In the GT Coupe, it’s overlaid with all the expected AMG goodies, from steering wheel to seats and unique trims. Plus, AMG is promising more equipment packages and personalisation options than ever.
Connections to the Mercedes CLS, which pioneered the four-door coupe genre, remain deep-rooted, but the message with this car is clear. While there are AMG Line versions of the CLS, if it’s the real thing you want, it will have to be the AMG GT Coupe.