Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT launches in Europe

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT variants hit European showrooms in both Coupe and Roadster versions as the SLS AMG family expands.

The new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT Coupe and Roadster have just arrived in European showrooms as the performance-oriented GT variants expand their range. The SLS AMG family has now grown to five with the two new models landing in Mercedes dealerships. The German AMG high-performance division continues to expand and the “highly emotional” cars are sure to get their followers excited.

It starts underneath the long hood as the SLS AMG GT 6.3-liter V8 comes with 583 horsepower and 478 lb ft of torque. The super sports car will sprint from 0-62 in just 3.7 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 198 mph. Both Coupe and Roadster will reach 124 mph in a super quick 11.2 seconds. The new SLS AMG GT had a recent lap time on the Nurburgring of just under 7:30.

On the outside, the SLS AMG GT is both stylish and aggressive looking. The supercar comes fitted with AMG forged wheels painted in matt black, darkened headlamps and tail lights and red-painted brake calipers poking through the special wheels with a high-sheen finish. Other special AMG GT treatments include the wing-shaped cross fins and the star recess in the radiator grille in high-gloss black. The AMG logo on the right of the trunk lid also features the additional letters "GT".

New AMG Ride Control Performance suspension

Underneath, the 2013 SLS AMG GT suspension receives some performance GT improvements. The GT gets a new AMG Ride Control Performance Suspension setup. The new suspension features stiffer and more aggressive spring/damper tuning for aggressive driving on the track.

The suspension features three settings, “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport plus” which is the most hardcore setting for use on the Nurburgring. All of this is achieved through a button on the AMG Drive Unit that automatically reduces body roll.

The interior has the atmosphere of a race car

The sport seats get special embossed GT badges on the head restraints and the black interior appointments are complimented red seat belts, red center console and door panel lining. Available for the first time will be an optional AMG designo exclusive style leather. This high-quality leather is available in single or two-tone finishes and features a distinctive new upholstery with a diamond design with contrasting stitching. A Bang & Olufsen BeoSound high-end surround sound system can be ordered as an option.

Those in the U.S. will have to wait a bit longer than our European friends. The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT will begin hitting showrooms here next month, and the MSRP for the coupe is expected to run around $195,000 while the Roadster variant will be close to $200,000.

Source: Mercedes-Benz