Just when you thought you’d seen it all with Mercedes’ magnificent SLS, now comes an even better version – the SLS AMG GT (coupe and roadster) with a scintillating 441kW/650Nm on-tap from its AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine.
Drive is via a transaxle with the AMG Speedshift DCT 7-speed transmission enhanced for faster shift times in ‘M’ mode. Cog-swaps are faster upwards and also downwards with a more pronounced double-declutching function.
Underneath is AMG’s new ‘Ride Control Performance’ set-up for the four aluminium wishbone suspension. Firmer and faster-reacting then the standard ‘AMG Ride Control’ system, the ‘Performance’ version dispenses with the ‘Comfort’ setting, offers enhanced functionality in both ‘Sport’ and Sport Plus’ modes and has been tested extensively at both the Nurburgring and Hockenheim race circuits in Germany.
On the outside the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT gains a unique look with darkened lights front and rear and high-gloss finishes for the exterior mirrors, grille fins and cool-air ducts on the bonnet and fenders – plus of course ‘GT’ badges. Wheels are 10-spoke AMG forged light alloys, 19-inch at the front and 20-inch at the rear with a choice of four designs.
Inside is lots of black Alcantara (including the centre section of the seats) for a purposeful racing appearance – offset by red seat belts and contrast stitching. There is also lots of high gloss black in the trim and instruments, which include a seven-LED red upshift indicator light system.
On the options list for the interior are carbon fibre seats or AMG ‘designo Exclusive Style’ leather.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT accelerates from zero to 100km/h in just 3.7 seconds and if we had to cash we’d be accelerating to our nearest Mercedes-Benz dealer get one – NOW! However no Australian plans have been announced for the newcomer which goes on-sale in Europe in October.
