Mercedes-AMG adds RWD, electric turbo-four to GT coupe

GT gets a four-banger under the hood

Mercedes-AMG has done what the likes of Toyota did with the GR Supra and Ford with the Mustang – the GT coupe is now being offered with a four-banger under the hood.

That’s right. Mercedes-AMG has revealed the new GT 43. Initially offered in the V8-powered GT 55 and GT 63 variants, the GT 43 is the new entry-level variant of the GT coupe lineup.

In terms of the looks, the GT 43 has some slight differences from the GT 55 and GT 63. In front, the GT 43 gets a different design on the lower part of its bumper, while the fenders feature a smaller horizontal vent.

At the back, the GT 43 comes with a retractable rear spoiler while the fixed rear wing is available at an extra cost. Lastly, the GT 43 features elliptical exhaust finishers instead of the trapezoidal-shaped quad exhaust on the V8.

Inside is more or less the same story, as the GT 43 features turbine-like circular air vents and digital screens on the dashboard. Depending on the market, the GT 43 could be bought with standard rear seats or an optional feature.

Aside from losing four cylinders, the GT 43 also has two less-driven wheels as it has a rear-wheel-drive layout. And you guessed it, the GT 43 shares the same engine as the SL 43 roadster that came out two years ago.

But in the 2+2 sports coupe, the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine with Formula 1-derived electric turbo is packing a greater punch. It produces 421 PS and 500 Nm of torque, up by 40 PS and 20 Nm compared to its convertible sibling.

As with the SL 43, the engine is mated to a 9-speed AMG Speedshift multi-clutch transmission that transfers its power to the coupe's rear wheels. The turbocharger is assisted by a 48-volt electrical system that feeds the belt-driven starter-generator that provides an additional 14 hp.

Performance-wise, the AMG GT 43 is no slouch. It can sprint to 100 km/h from a standstill in 4.6 seconds, while the top speed is 280 km/h.

Despite being slower than the V8 variants in a straight line, the Mercedes-AMG GT 43 should be more nimble on the corners. The lighter engine and the removal of the front axle means the GT 43 tips the scales at 1775 kg, which is 195 kg less than the all-wheel-drive GT 63 coupe.

The Mercedes-AMG GT 43 is expected to arrive in European showrooms later this year. But for a Philippine launch, we’ll have to wait and see if Mercedes-Benz PH will bring it here.