Mercedes-Benz Does Its Own GT-R and Here is How

Nissan cornered the market with the GT-R name. But Mercedes-Benz believes two can play that game.

Today at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Mercedes-Benz has revealed the maddest version of the AMG GT coupe, the 2018 Mercedes-AMG GT-R.

Under the hood lies the familiar 4.0L twin-turbo V8 that powers all of the GT variants. For the GT-R, AMG turned the wick up on the V8 to produce 577 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque (up 77 and 37 respectively). To achieve these numbers, the engine has been fitted with new turbochargers, a revised intake, new forged-aluminum pistons with a higher compression ratio, and updated engine software. For the drivetrain, there is a lighter flywheel, revised ratios for the seven-speed DCT, and a new cooling system for the DCT. Mercedes-Benz says the GT-R can hit 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 198.

Can we talk about the exterior?

We'll start with the changes to the body. The front features a new front grille that is similar to one used on the GT3 version. The front fenders are slightly wider to allow for a wider track and are made out of carbon fiber. Other body parts using carbon fiber include the roof and rear fenders. Around back is large rear wing, large center exhaust, and a double diffuser. The rear is also 2.2 inches wider. A set of aluminum-forged wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.

As for the color, Mercedes calls this shade of green AMG Green Hell Magno. The name pays homage to Nurburgring Nordschleife, where the car was developed. This color is exclusive to the GT-R.

Anything else I should know about the GT-R?

• The GT-R features some clever aerodynamic tricks such as active aero piece at the front that drops down at speeds above 50 mph to help keep the car on the road.
• Compared to the standard GT, the GT-R is about 200 pounds lighter thanks to the extensive use of aluminum and carbon fiber.
• The GT-R will feature a fully-electric rear-wheel steering system. Two electromechanical actuators change the angle of the rear wheels by up to 1.5 degrees. Mercedes says this is to improve handling and in evasive maneuvers.
• There are nine settings for the traction control system.
• You'll be able to manually adjust the springs to provide better handling

How much and when will I be able to buy one?

We'll answer the second part of the question first. Mercedes says the GT-R will go on sale next summer. Pricing will be announced closer to the launch.

Pic Credit: Mercedes-Benz