The new Mercedes-AMG GT R

From the world's most demanding racetrack directly onto the road: never before has Mercedes‑AMG packed so much motorsport technology into a production vehicle than it has into the new AMG GT R. The front-mid-engine with transaxle, twin-turbo V-8 engine rated at 577 hp, extensively modified suspension, new aerodynamics, and intelligent, lightweight construction form the foundation of an especially dynamic driving experience. Even from afar the exclusive "AMG green hell magno" paintwork leaves no doubt as to the sports car's origins: most of its development time was spent in the "Green Hell" of the Nurburgring racetrack. Wider front and rear wings allow an increased track width for optimum grip and even higher cornering speeds. The vehicle's new front fascia with active elements, large rear aerofoil and new rear fascia with double diffuser enhance aerodynamic efficiency and help ensure optimum grip. The lightweight, forged wheels shod with cup tires are likewise designed for maximum driving dynamics, as are other new features like active rear-wheel steering, nine-way adjustable traction control system, and adjustable coil-over suspension with additional electronic control. The new AMG Panamericana grille emphasizes the unique standing of the AMG GT R. For the first time, the characteristic form with vertical fins that celebrated its world premiere on the Mercedes‑AMG GT3 customer-sport racing car can be found on an AMG production vehicle.

Mercedes-AMG continues to grow and is expanding the top end of its product range with the introduction of the new Mercedes-AMG GT R. "As our sports car and performance brand, Mercedes-AMG has its roots in motorsport and, ever since it was founded, has repeatedly taken on the competition on the racetrack. These racing genes are particularly prevalent in the new AMG GT R. Boasting a wealth of technological innovations, the new top-of-the-range model is proof of the close collaboration between the people who construct our racing cars and road-going vehicles," shares Professor Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes‑Benz Cars Development.

"The new Mercedes-AMG GT R has taken us to the next level of driving performance. With motor-racing genes and innovative technical solutions, this road-going sports car offers an ultimate driving experience that allows people to truly feel our motorsport origins. It combines the driving dynamics of our Mercedes-AMG GT3 racing car with the everyday practicality of the Mercedes-AMG GT. Those with fuel in their veins will be thrilled by the Mercedes-AMG GT R's radical longitudinal and lateral acceleration, precise turn-in, and sensational grip. We have modified all performance-related components and linked them together intelligently for maximum driving dynamics," says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes‑AMG GmbH.

The data at a glance

*Curb weight according to DIN, not including driver and luggage
**Curb weight according to EC, including driver (75 kg)

The third member of the Mercedes-AMG GT family is the new head of the Mercedes-AMG model range. Featuring pioneering technologies, the Mercedes-AMG GT R was designed with racetrack use firmly in mind. Its development was largely based on vast motor-racing experience in Mercedes-AMG GT3 customer sport and the German Touring Car Masters. Data such as 3.6 seconds from zero to 100 km/h and a top speed of 318 km/h, combined with outstanding driving dynamics, will undoubtedly translate into extremely fast laps on the racetrack. The exclusive new "AMG green hell magno" paint alone establishes a visual link to "Green Hell," the nickname for the legendary North Loop of the Nurburgring track, emphasizing that the car's roots are firmly embedded in the racetrack. Sharpened racetrack performance comes courtesy of intelligent lightweight construction that incorporates aluminum and carbon, specific reinforcements in the body shell, the uprated twin-turbo V-8 engine with a specially adapted, seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission, innovative aerodynamics, and new suspension with active rear-wheel steering and uniball joints.

The front mid-engine and transmission in transaxle configuration on the rear axle, a tried-and-tested feature of the Mercedes-AMG GT and Mercedes-AMG GT S, makes for a beneficial rear-biased weight distribution of 47.3 to 52.7. In conjunction with the vehicle's low centre of gravity, this translates into extremely agile handling and permits high cornering speeds. With a power-to-weight ratio of 2.66 kilograms per hp, the Mercedes-AMG GT R occupies the pole position in its segment.

Close collaboration between design and aerodynamics experts

Aerodynamics engineers and designers worked together more intensively than ever during development of the new Mercedes-AMG GT R. The Mercedes-AMG design idiom of "Dynamic Presence" forms the basis of its far more expressive overall appearance and distinct look. Form follows function, and function supports form: aerodynamics experts have made the designers' wishes a reality, and all elements have an inherent technical benefit and contribute to enhanced driving dynamics. This collaboration has even resulted in an innovation that now has a patent pending.

The design of the Mercedes-AMG GT R embodies sensuous clarity. In addition to a powerfully sculpted body and distinct motorsport elements, the new AMG Panamericana grille is a real eye-catcher. This unique feature also comes from the world of motorsport and is celebrating its standard-production premiere in the Mercedes-AMG GT R. Its 15 chrome-plated vertical fins act as a visual reference to the look of the new Mercedes-AMG GT3 racing car. The basic form of the new radiator grille can be tied back to the Mercedes‑Benz 300 SL racing car that won the legendary Panamericana road race in Mexico in 1952.

Unbridled forward thrust even while stationary

The low-slung front section and forward-inclined radiator grille create a distinctive "shark nose" impression and give the car the appearance of sitting lower on the road. At the same time, this shape lowers the vehicle's back-pressure point, enhancing the flow of cooling air and the car's aerodynamic performance.

The V-shaped, arrow-like appearance of the front end also enhances the car's dynamic looks, and acts as a reference to the uninhibited forward thrust of the Mercedes-AMG GT R even before it moves. A front fascia featuring a completely new jet-wing design (based on the A-wing) emphasizes a feeling of breadth and lends the car a more road-hugging appearance. In terms of their shape, the large outer air intakes in the front fascia are reminiscent of jet engines. They ensure that the increased cooling-air requirements of the Mercedes-AMG GT R drive system are met. For this reason, they sport two aerodynamically-shaped horizontal fins in place of meshes and, as a result, direct airflow to the radiators without loss.

A wide front splitter reduces lift at the front axle, while additional Air Curtains on the outside of the front fascia calm the airflow, improving the drag coefficient (Cd) value of the Mercedes-AMG GT R. Thanks to their narrow, vertical openings, the Air Curtains also guide the air specifically towards the wheel arches, optimizing flow properties in this area. To ensure ideal airflow through the double wheel arch radiators, the Mercedes-AMG GT R also features unique new wheel arch liners with special cooling-air slits.

All-new active underbody aerodynamics

The GT R's completely new active aerodynamics profile is a special engineering feat that is almost totally concealed in the underbody in front of the engine. At a speed of 80 km/h in RACE mode, this carbon component, weighing only about two kilograms, automatically moves downward by about 40 millimetres and changes the airflow considerably. This process results in what is known as the Venturi effect, which "sucks" the car onto the road and reduces the front-axle lift by around 40 kilograms at 250 km/h. The carbon component is spring-mounted and can therefore flex upwards easily, in order to protect against damage on coarse racetrack sections.

The driver can feel this effect in the car's steering: the Mercedes-AMG GT R is even more precise to steer when cornering at high speed, and exhibits even better directional stability. The Mercedes-AMG GT R delivers a far more agile response with clear steering-wheel feedback while remaining consistently easy to control, especially during fast cornering and under high lateral acceleration. In addition, the drag coefficient is improved. As a result, the downforce on the rear axle remains at an unchanged high level.

This innovation was developed using computer simulation at first and then optimized during many hours in the wind tunnel. The results were confirmed in extensive test drives, including on the North Circuit of the Nurburgring. The new aerodynamics profile is barely visible on the underbody and thus blends in harmoniously with the overall silhouette.

Louvres-controlled airflow: the active air management system

Another technical highlight that improves the aerodynamics of the Mercedes-AMG GT R is the active air management system. This system has vertical louvres positioned in the lower area directly behind the front fascia. These louvres are electronically controlled and can be opened and closed in around a second by an electric motor to improve the airflow and, consequently, the aerodynamic performance.

The louvres are normally closed, including at top speed, during braking, and when cornering at high speed. This position lowers drag and makes it possible to route the air to the underbody to reduce front lift even further. Only when predefined components have reached certain temperatures, and the demand for cooling air is particularly high, do the louvres open and allow the maximum amount of cooling air to flow to the heat exchangers.

The overall aerodynamic design of the Mercedes-AMG GT R ensures an optimal balance of lift and downforce in all operating states, and reduces drag compared with the Mercedes-AMG GT.

A long, powerful side view

Powerfully sculpted front wings made of super-light carbon add a total of 46 millimetres to the width of the Mercedes-AMG GT R at the front, while making room for its wider track and large wheel/tire combinations. They also emphasize the car's longitudinal dynamics. A further distinguishing feature is the special wing signet that features a fin as well as a large air outlet through which the waste heat from the engine bay flows. This fin is perforated and incorporates the AMG diamond logo with five slats.

The side view also benefits from the new, optional AMG Performance forged wheels in matte black. These especially lightweight, 10-spoke wheels are exclusive to the Mercedes-AMG GT R and their highly elaborate design includes a drop-centre rim, a milled groove and two, high-sheen rim rings of different widths – 10.0 J x 19 ET56 wheels at the front and 12.0 J x 20 ET52 at the rear. The wheels' lightweight design has three advantages: it reduces the overall weight, rotatory mass, and unsprung masses. They enhance efficiency and performance, while delivering even more precise wheel suspension and steering responses, which also positively impacts the chassis and suspension control systems.

The wheels afford a clear view of the brake callipers, which are painted in yellow exclusively for the Mercedes-AMG GT R. New side sill panels give the vehicle the appearance of having an even lower stance on the road, while high-gloss black inserts and caps on the housings of the door mirrors set a distinctive tone.

The Mercedes-AMG GT R comes with a high-grade carbon roof, to underscore the high-contrast look of the vehicle.

Emphasis on width and aerodynamic optimisation: the rear end

The GT R's rear end also features numerous, conspicuous innovations: the new aluminum side walls widen the rear of the Mercedes-AMG GT R by a total of 57 millimetres, creating space for the larger 20-inch wheels and the wider track. Both measures make for improved traction while allowing higher cornering speeds.

The wider design of the rear fascia with large outer vent openings and vertical swaging improves the airflow at the rear end, as does the double diffuser. The overall heat dissipation of the silencers is optimized as the warm air is exhausted by the double diffuser while driving.

A small air outlet is incorporated between the tail lamps for additional dissipation of the heat generated by the rear silencer. A further distinguishing feature of the Mercedes-AMG GT R is a large exhaust tip with centre spar, which is centrally positioned in the rear fascia. It is flanked by two more black exhaust tips on the left and right in the diffuser.

The large rear wing is rigidly mounted on the hatch and increases the downforce on the rear axle. Aerofoil mounts are painted to match the vehicle's colour, while the blade is finished in high-gloss black. Depending on the type of use or racetrack conditions, the precise angle of the blade can be adjusted manually ‑ yet another technique also used in motorsport.

At top speed, the result of all of the GT R's aerodynamic features increases its surface contact by 155 kilograms compared with the Mercedes-AMG GT. The new Mercedes-AMG GT R therefore offers maximum grip, perfect drivability and a powerfully-proportioned design that harmoniously integrates its aerodynamic functions. And there's more: despite its higher engine output, extra width, chunkier tires, larger rear aerofoil, raised cooling-air demand and increased downforce, the Mercedes-AMG GT R has a lower Cd than the Mercedes-AMG GT.

Individual set-up: AMG coil-over suspension

The suspension of the new AMG high-performance sports model is also systematically designed for racetrack use. Wishbones, steering knuckles and hub carriers on the front and rear axle are manufactured entirely out of forged aluminum in order to reduce the unsprung masses. Its double-wishbone design positions the wheel firmly, with minimal elastic movements, while high camber and toe-in stability results in high cornering speeds and also provides the driver with an optimum feel for the road when cornering at the extreme limits.

The uniball spherical bearings on the lower wishbones of the rear axle are also inspired by motorsport. They are significantly more wear-resistant than wishbone bushings and, due to their design, have no play, which means toe-in and camber do not change even under high loads. As a result, the Mercedes-AMG GT R can be driven with even more precision.

In addition, the rear axle is fitted with a thicker tubular anti-roll bar. It has been adapted to meet the heightened driving dynamics requirements of the Mercedes-AMG GT R and saves weight due to its hollow design.

The new AMG coil-over suspension was designed specifically for the Mercedes-AMG GT R. As in professional motorsport, drivers can select their personal set-up and manually adjust the spring pre-load to suit their requirements. This makes it possible to influence the dive and roll behaviour as well as the grip of the Mercedes-AMG GT R precisely as needed to tailor them to personal preferences or to the particular racetrack.

Coil-over suspension is combined with the AMG RIDE CONTROL continuously variable, adaptive damping system, which is electronically controlled and automatically adapts the damping on each wheel according to handling circumstances, speed, and road conditions. Damping characteristics are modulated rapidly and precisely by two separate valves for the rebound and compression forces in the dampers. A harder damping rate effectively reduces rolling movements when cornering and braking, for example. This continuous adjustment of the damping to the current speed also ensures the best possible road contact even at high speeds, thus enhancing safety.

Furthermore, the driver can adjust the adaptive damping characteristics at the touch of a button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT or by using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes. Three modes are available: "Comfort," "Sport" and "Sport Plus." The purpose of each of the three damping characteristics is clear: "Comfort" is the right choice for public road, while "Sport" is perfect for racetracks like the Nordschleife (North Circuit) of the Nurburgring, in other words for highly dynamic driving on partially undulating racetracks with maximum ground contact. Finally, "Sport Plus" is ideal for more flat, modern Grand Prix circuits such as Hockenheim and conveys a high degree of structural rigidity.

Conventional suspension measures include the wider front and rear track as well as the standard-fit Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, of size 275/35 ZR 19 at the front and 325/30 ZR 20 at the rear. The street-legal racing tires allow faster laps and up to 50 percent more mileage on the racetrack.

Agility and stability through active rear-wheel steering

The new GT R is even more sensitive to steering inputs thanks to standard-fit active rear-wheel steering, which is being used for the first time on a Mercedes-AMG model. The system offers an ideal combination of agility and stability ‑ handling characteristics that are normally in direct conflict.

Two steering actuators replace the conventional control arms on the rear axle of the Mercedes-AMG GT R. At the heart of the system are two electro-mechanical actuators (electric motors with jackscrews) that are not mechanically connected to the steering wheel. This "by-wire" system adjusts the rear wheels within a predefined operating map by means of electronic control. The maximum toe angle change on the rear wheels of the Mercedes-AMG GT R is 1.5 degrees.

Up to a speed of 100 km/h, the rear wheels are turned in the opposite direction to the front wheels, corresponding to a virtual shortening of the wheelbase. The advantage of this is the Mercedes-AMG GT R is far more agile when steering into bends, resulting in even greater driving enjoyment and less steering effort ‑ especially on small and winding roads, narrow racetracks on which there are multiple changes in direction, or slalom courses. Further benefits include increased manoeuvrability and a smaller turning circle in everyday driving situations, e.g. when turning or parking.

Once the speed of the Mercedes-AMG GT R exceeds 100 km/h, the system turns the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels, corresponding to a virtual lengthening of the wheelbase and improving handling stability. At the same time, the lateral force on the rear wheels builds up considerably faster when changing direction, which makes the response to steering inputs quicker. Drivers also notice that the Mercedes-AMG GT R delivers massive grip on the rear axle and strong stability during fast changes in direction, without the otherwise perceivable twitching effect at its rear end.

The active rear-wheel steering not only improves cornering, it also assists the driver in the event of sudden evasive manoeuvres and thus enhances active safety. This makes the Mercedes-AMG GT R easier to control at its limit.

The standard 3-stage ESP® with the settings "ESP ON," "ESP SPORT Handling Mode," and "ESP OFF" works in perfect unison with the vehicle's limited-slip differential and is optimally tuned to the outstanding driving dynamics of the Mercedes-AMG GT R. The programming for the ESP OFF mode is taken from the Mercedes-AMG GT3.

Grip to the power of nine: AMG TRACTION CONTROL

In ESP OFF mode, the innovative new AMG TRACTION CONTROL system allows the driver to exert even more influence over the handling characteristics of the Mercedes-AMG GT R. Also adapted from the world of motorsport, it allows drivers to pre‑select the slip on the driven rear axle in nine levels. Just as in the current Mercedes-AMG GT3, it isolates the grip on the driven wheels and does not affect stabilisation provided by the ESP® - corresponding characteristic maps are programmed into the vehicle electronics to this end.

Control is maintained via a special rotary switch located in the centre console below the ventilation outlets. Depending on the setting, the system permits more or less slip on the rear wheels ‑ very helpful in varying road conditions. Level 1 is programmed for driving in wet weather with high safety reserves. Level 9 allows maximum slip on the rear axle. A luminescent band of LEDs around the rotary switch indicates the current setting ‑ this display logic likewise has its origins in motorsport. The setting is also indicated on the instrument cluster's central display.

The AMG development has a major advantage over conventional systems in that it anticipates situations with the help of a virtual µ(mu) simulator and other data processed by a control unit within fractions of a second. The maximum permissible slip on the driven rear wheels is calculated depending on the selected AMG TRACTION CONTROL level. When the wheels reach this level of slip during acceleration, the traction control modulates the engine output so that this level is not exceeded and the vehicle continues accelerating with the specified slip. The effect of the electronic limited-slip differential is also included in the adjustment scope, ensuring that this control takes place without lag and further enhancing both driving enjoyment and performance.

This system provides driver assistance for one of the most challenging aspects of driving: selecting the optimum engine torque and torque increase when accelerating out of a turn. One of the most important criteria for achieving a top lap time is the precisely measured power delivery of the engine when accelerating out of a turn. In the AMG GT R, drivers can get as much grip as they want and have dialled in.

Electronically controlled rear-axle limited-slip differential

The Mercedes-AMG GT R is equipped with an electronically controlled limited-slip differential on its rear axle, which is integrated into its compact transmission housing. Its sensitive and rapid control elevates the limits of physical handling to a new level, not only further improving the grip of the driven wheels, but also increasing cornering speeds at the limit. The system operates with a variable locking effect in acceleration and overrun modes, and is perfectly tuned for various handling conditions and road friction coefficients.

Variable ratio: speed-sensitive sports steering

Speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable steering ratio, which enhances vehicle handling and agility at low speeds while maintaining driving safety at high speeds. Power assistance is a particular highlight: it responds not only depending on the given road speed, but also according to the current lateral acceleration and the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode. The result: the driver has a perfect feel for the vehicle thanks to direct feedback from the road.

Race-ready interior design

The interior of the new Mercedes-AMG GT R is also strongly inspired by motorsport in order to create the ideal conditions for the driver. Tried-and-tested AMG performance seats in Nappa Leather and DINAMICA come as standard, while optional yellow seat belts, dials with yellow highlights, Black Exclusive Nappa leather/DINAMICA upholstery with yellow contrast stitching, and special controls, including for the new AMG TRACTION CONTROL, can underline the unique standing of the new Mercedes-AMG GT R.

The wide dashboard is reminiscent of a powerful wing and supports the vehicle's aviation-based design theme. This impression is reinforced by four central spotlight-style vents, and the individual vents at the right and left ends of the dashboard. The Mercedes-AMG GT R comes across as the ultimate driving machine thanks to high beltlines, concave door panelling, a dynamic centre console, and the low seat position that allows the driver to integrate seamlessly into the cockpit.

The shape of the dominant centre console is reminiscent of a NACA air intake, and authentic materials suggest that it has been adopted directly from motor racing. Its free-standing central display is another eye-catching feature, while attention to detail is echoed in the AMG DRIVE UNIT controls. These are arranged like eight cylinders in a V layout, bolstering the powerful, hi-tech impression made by the centre console.

The new AMG Interior Night package comes as standard. In this package, the shift paddles, steering wheel bezel, performance seat inserts, door sills, and trunk cross member are finished in high-gloss black, which joins with the standard AMG Interior Piano Lacquer package to further emphasize sportiness. Customers also have the option of ordering the trim in matte black carbon fibre.

More equipment, less weight: AMG Lightweight Performance

One key factor that influences the performance of a sports car is weight. Mercedes-AMG uses an intelligent material mix for the structure of the Mercedes-AMG GT R: various aluminum alloys for the chassis and body, steel for the trunk lid and magnesium for the front end. This extremely light element at the front reduces the inertia ahead of the front axle, thus improving the vehicle's agility.
The weight-optimized spaceframe is made of die-cast, extruded aluminum sections. The high bending and torsional strength of the entire design enables extreme linear, transverse forces from the drivetrain and suspension to be absorbed and transferred. Unwanted flexibility is thus reduced, and the vehicle is able to respond precisely and directly. As a result, the driver experiences a sports car with maximum dynamics that responds with outstanding precision.

Materials from motor racing

A host of further measures contributes to weight reduction as part of the AMG lightweight-performance strategy. A variety of components all play a role in this respect, including the use of carbon fibre, the lightweight and high-strength material from motorsport, which helps to achieve the ambitious goals. Carbon fibre is the material of choice for, among other elements, the front wings, the roof and the torque tube between engine and transmission.

Now weighing in at just 13.9 kilograms, the carbon-fibre torque tube is about 40 percent lighter than its already weight-optimized aluminum counterpart in the Mercedes-AMG GT. As a structural component of the transaxle drivetrain, it creates a connection between the engine and the transmission with extreme flexural and torsional stiffness. It permits a direct drivetrain connection that is favourable to driving dynamics and also plays a role in the vehicle's balanced weight distribution.

Further weight advantages come from standard-fit forged wheels, the titanium rear silencer, and the inclusion of fewer soundproofing materials. Overall, the new Mercedes-AMG GT R is 15 kilograms lighter than the Mercedes-AMG GT S, despite incorporating far more technical features such as the large rear aerofoil, rear-wheel steering, active aerodynamics, and body and chassis reinforcements.

A new carbon-fibre tunnel cross for maximum torsional rigidity

AMG experts designed the new lightweight-construction component to reduce weight while increasing torsional rigidity. The new carbon-fibre tunnel cross of the Mercedes-AMG GT R replaces three different aluminum components of the GT. The cross is mounted under the exhaust system and the torque tube.

The tunnel cross further stiffens the body considerably, helping it to withstand the high torsional loads that occur during racing. To this end, it braces the vehicle's two sides against each other even more effectively in the tunnel area for the torque tube, increasing torsional rigidity by some 7.5 percent. This increase is especially remarkable because even the standard Mercedes-AMG GT already boasts a high level of torsional rigidity. After just the first few metres, the driver gets an extremely precise driving impression that is maintained even in the event of extreme vehicle loads that occur when driving at the vehicle's dynamic limits. The fact that the body of the car is more composed allows for even better control of the Mercedes-AMG GT R under difficult racetrack conditions such as fast, bumpy corners, and requires less steering effort.

Over and above this, two diagonal braces in the engine bay stiffen the front end. In the Mercedes-AMG GT R, they are also made of carbon fibre and represent weight savings of about 50 percent over steel components.

An intelligent mix of materials: composite wheel-catch struts

AMG lightweight construction experts use an intelligent material mix for the so‑called wheel-catch struts that are made of a composite material. In an accident, these components help to guide the front wheels onto the side members as part of the intended crash kinematics, and to catch them there. These composite struts are about 50 percent lighter than equivalent steel components. Compared with carbon fibre, a composite material has the advantage of being significantly more deformable while offering good material strength.

Fade-resistance and consistent performance: the brakes

A high-performance composite brake system ensures excellent deceleration and high fade-resistance, with internally ventilated and perforated brake discs 390 millimetres in diameter on the front axle and 360 millimetres on the rear axle. The brake callipers are painted yellow.

A ceramic, high-performance composite brake system is available as an option. The advantages of this system are weight-savings of 17 kilograms, a longer service life, and even better fade resistance thanks to ceramic brake discs that are of 402 millimetres in diameter at the front and 360 millimetres at the rear.

More power, more torque, faster response: the engine

The heart of the new high-performance athlete is pumping stronger than ever: the AMG 4.0-litre twin-turbo engine in the Mercedes-AMG GT R has an output of 577 hp, which is more than 74 hp over than the previous top-of-the-range engine in the Mercedes-AMG GT S. A peak torque of 516 lb-ft is available between 1900 and 5500 rpm. 

This increase in performance was achieved with the help of new turbochargers with modified compressor machining, smaller wastegate aneroid capsule, and sharpened engine mapping. The boost pressure supplied by the turbochargers has been increased to 1.35 bar, up from 1.2 bar in the Mercedes-AMG GT. In addition, the exhaust ports have been optimized and the compression ratio modified, and the entire combustion process has been retuned.

A correspondingly modified application of the accelerator characteristics, charge-pressure build-up, and transmission parameters all ensure that the engine responds to load changes even more spontaneously, and that gear changes are effected with even greater speed. The fact that the two-mass flywheel is 0.7 kilograms lighter than its counterpart in the Mercedes-AMG GT S likewise contributes to this highly agile impression.

The eight-cylinder unit thrills with its spontaneous response, precisely measured power output and linear power delivery with that comes with a powerful thrust in all engine speed ranges, all of which makes the car far easier to control when driving at the limit. To make this possible, sophisticated engine control electronics also take into account the existing driving status and also control accelerator characteristics as a function of the occurring lateral forces.

The AMG 4.0-litre V-8 engine features tried-and-tested twin turbochargers, which are not mounted on the outside of the cylinder banks but rather inside the V configuration – experts call it the "hot inside V." The benefits are: a compact engine design, spontaneous response from the turbochargers, and low exhaust emissions thanks to optimum air flow for the close-coupled catalytic converters. This basic principle of the new AMG V-8 family has been further optimized for the Mercedes-AMG GT R and enables further improved performance. Maximum charge pressure is 1.35 bar; the turbochargers have a maximum speed of 186,000 revolutions per minute.

For optimum power output even when outside temperatures are high, Mercedes‑AMG uses indirect air-to-water intercooling. With optimum airflow and water, the intercoolers have a separate, two-stage low-temperature water circuit. The first cooler stage involves two parallel coolers in the left and right wheel arch. Together with the large radiator at the front of the vehicle as a second radiator stage, the system is even more effective than in the Mercedes-AMG GT S. The downstream water-cooled intercoolers ensure that the charge air that has been compressed and heated by the turbochargers is cooled effectively prior to entering the combustion chambers. It therefore remains at a constantly low level even under full load. A large radiator at the car's front end ensures controlled cooling of the water that is circulating in the low-temperature circuit. Extremely short charge-air ducting makes for optimum responsiveness.

The combination of twin turbochargers and direct injection with spray-guided combustion increases the vehicle's thermodynamic efficiency and output. Particularly fast, precise piezo injectors spray the fuel at high pressure into eight combustion chambers. Multiple injection occurs on-demand, ensuring a consistent fuel/air mixture. The delivery of fuel is electronically controlled and fully variable for a fuel pressure between 100 and 200 bar.

The aluminum crankcase is produced using sand casting technology and features a closed-deck design. This ensures extreme strength while keeping the weight as low as possible, and allows high injection pressures of up to 140 bar.

The NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder liners is also used in the Formula One engines of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS. It is far harder than conventional grey cast-iron liners and therefore less susceptible to wear. In addition, its reduced friction combines with aluminum-forged pistons to help increase efficiency.

Four overhead camshafts control a total of 32 valves. Camshaft adjustment on the intake and exhaust side enables an excellent throttle response and optimises the gas cycle for each operating point.

The dry sump lubrication also ensures the oil supply even with high lateral forces and allows the engine to be installed lower, thus moving the centre of gravity closer to the road and forming the basis for high lateral acceleration.

The engine for the Mercedes-AMG GT R is also fitted by hand in the hand-finishing section of AMG's production plant in Affalterbach, based on the "One Man - One Engine" philosophy. This means that each engine is assembled by a highly qualified engine builder who applies the strictest quality standards. This engineer is responsible for everything from installing the crankshaft in the engine block and assembling the camshafts, to wiring the engine and filling it with engine oil ‑ as is clearly evidenced by the signature on the AMG engine badge.

Even more suitable for the racetrack: the dual-clutch transmission

The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that is configured in a transaxle layout at the rear axle has been extensively revised by AMG developers, who modified the hardware and the software to make the transmission even more suitable for the racetrack. First gear in the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission has a longer ratio, while seventh gear and the final drive have shorter ratios to allow a more agile acceleration experience overall and very spontaneous response to fast accelerator pedal movements.

Previous limits governing shift performance and response time have been extended substantially. The RACE START function is now even more impressive thanks to increased starting revs, more sensitive wheel slip control, and sports tires that are fit for the racetrack. Furthermore, transmission cooling has been adapted to the tougher requirements of racing.

Drivers can tailor the Mercedes-AMG GT R to their personal preferences using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT controller. Various modes are available: "C" (Comfort), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport Plus), and "I" (Individual). The "RACE" mode optimally adjusts the shift strategy of the dual clutch transmission to the needs of racetrack usage – shortest shift speeds and highly emotional engine sound are included. By pressing the separate "M" button in the centre console, the driver can activate manual transmission mode in any drive mode.

Comfort and agility: dynamic engine and transmission mounts

Dynamic engine and transmission mounts are installed as standard in the Mercedes-AMG GT R. Engine and transmission mounts assume an important function in the case of a transaxle design: soft mounts improve comfort since they provide more effective decoupling of noise and vibration. However, handling and agility benefit from a generally stiffer mount set-up.

Mercedes-AMG resolves these conflicting objectives using dynamic mounts, which adjust their stiffness continuously and almost instantaneously to suit driving conditions and handling. This function is performed by a special control unit, which identifies handling situations on the basis of CAN data. It is connected to the electronic limited-slip rear differential and thus ensures optimum balanced driving dynamics. AMG has gone one step further in the implementation of this technology: the engine and transmission mounts are even actuated independently of each other. The advantage of this innovative solution is that it provides a substantial improvement in driving precision and lateral dynamics.

The pure sound of the AMG performance sports exhaust system

The Mercedes-AMG GT R's specially developed exhaust system not only delivers genuine racing car sound, it also saves around six kilograms of weight compared with the Mercedes-AMG GT S, thanks to the use of titanium for the rear silencer and thin-walled stainless steel for the front section of the exhaust system.

With its special, hexagonal form, the tip of the large tailpipe is centred in the rear fascia, emphasizing the car's motor-racing character. Two more tailpipes are located on the left and right in the diffuser. Their tips are sheathed in carbon fibre, like in motorsport, to protect the diffuser against high exhaust temperatures. The exhaust system features two infinitely variable exhaust flaps, which have a direct influence on the sound of the Mercedes-AMG GT R.

The exhaust flaps open and close depending on the selected AMG DRIVE SELECT mode, although they can also be controlled individually using a separate button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. In the "Comfort" and "Sport" settings, the low-frequency sound typical of a V-8 is designed for comfort. In "Sport Plus" and "RACE" modes, meanwhile, the sound composition is far more emotive.

Market data

The Mercedes-AMG GT R celebrated its world premiere on 24 June 2016 at the site of the Mercedes-Benz World located at one of England's most tradition-steeped racing circuits: Brooklands.

About Mercedes-Benz Canada
Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of the Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG passenger vehicles, Mercedes-Benz Vans and smart. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. employs approximately 1,500 people in 21 locations across Canada. Through a nationwide network of 11 Mercedes-Benz owned retail operations and 47 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 48,320 vehicles in 2016. This represents the best year ever for the company and has positioned Mercedes-Benz as the top luxury manufacturer in Canada for the third consecutive year.

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