Tag Archives: Mercedes-AMG

2027 Mercedes-AMG GT SUV Revealed: 1,169 HP, 710 kW Charging and 0–100 km/h in 2.5 Seconds

Mercedes-AMG is entering a new era with the all-new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV, an electric performance SUV developed entirely in-house from the ground up for the first time in the brand’s 59-year history. Built on the advanced AMG.EA high-performance architecture, the new model combines the practicality and space of a full-size SUV with the acceleration, handling and emotional appeal traditionally associated with AMG sports cars.

With up to 860 kW (1,169 hp), a claimed 0–100 km/h acceleration time of just 2.5 seconds and DC fast-charging capability of up to 710 kW, the flagship Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SUV aims to redefine expectations for high-performance electric SUVs. A maximum WLTP range of up to 700 kilometres, sophisticated active suspension technology and an interior packed with digital features are designed to make the new AMG more than just a straight-line acceleration specialist.

The Mercedes-AMG GT SUV will be offered in three versions: the GT 53, GT 55 and GT 63. The entry-level GT 53 is scheduled to open for orders on 20 October 2026, with prices starting at €113,050. The more powerful GT 55 and GT 63 variants are expected to follow in spring 2027.

Mercedes-AMG GT SUV: A New Chapter for Electric Performance

The new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV represents a significant milestone for the Affalterbach-based performance division. Rather than adapting an existing Mercedes-Benz SUV, AMG has developed the vehicle around its dedicated AMG.EA platform, an architecture engineered specifically for high-performance electric vehicles.

The result is a full-size SUV with a distinctly sporting character. Its low roofline, wide track, muscular bodywork and integrated driving position give it a silhouette closer to a high-performance GT car than a conventional family SUV. At the same time, Mercedes-AMG promises generous passenger space, long-distance comfort and the versatility expected from the segment.

Jörg Burzer, Chief Technology Officer and a member of the Mercedes-Benz Group AG Board of Management, describes the vehicle as a demonstration of how electric performance can deliver sustained power, range and charging speed without the compromises traditionally associated with battery-powered performance cars.

Stefan Weckbach, Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG, sums up the concept with a simple philosophy: “SUV by shape. GT by nature.”

That approach places the new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV in an increasingly competitive segment where manufacturers are attempting to combine supercar-level acceleration with everyday usability.

Three Models, Up to 1,169 Horsepower

Mercedes-AMG will launch the GT SUV with three powertrain configurations, offering a choice between two synchronous electric motors and a more sophisticated three-motor arrangement featuring axial flux technology.

The range-topping GT 63 SUV produces up to 860 kW (1,169 hp), while the GT 55 SUV delivers up to 600 kW (816 hp). Both use three electric motors, with two motors positioned at the rear and another at the front.

The entry-level GT 53 SUV takes a different approach, employing two synchronous motors, one on each axle, for a combined output of 400 kW (544 hp).

The key specifications announced by Mercedes-AMG are as follows:

  • Mercedes-AMG GT 53 SUV: 400 kW (544 hp), two synchronous motors.
  • Mercedes-AMG GT 55 SUV: 600 kW (816 hp), three axial flux motors.
  • Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SUV: 860 kW (1,169 hp), three axial flux motors.
  • Maximum claimed acceleration: 0–100 km/h in 2.5 seconds for the GT 63 SUV.
  • Maximum claimed acceleration: 0–200 km/h in 6.8 seconds for the GT 63 SUV.
  • Maximum speed: 270 km/h with the Driver’s Package.
  • Maximum claimed WLTP range: up to 700 kilometres, depending on configuration.
  • Maximum DC charging power: up to 710 kW, depending on battery version.

These figures place the GT 63 SUV firmly in the territory of some of the world’s quickest production performance vehicles, while the GT 53 provides a more accessible entry point into the electric AMG family.

Axial Flux Motors: The Technology Behind the GT 63

The defining engineering feature of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SUV is its three-motor electric drivetrain. Unlike conventional radial flux electric motors, axial flux motors use a different magnetic arrangement that can offer high torque and power density within a compact package.

In the GT 63 and GT 55, the electric motors are integrated into high-performance electric drive units, known as HP.EDUs, on the front and rear axles.

The rear drive unit incorporates two axial flux motors, each paired with a compact input planetary gearbox. The motors and gearboxes use oil cooling, while water-cooled silicon carbide inverters manage the high electrical loads.

The front axle features a single axial flux motor, a gearbox and an integrated parking lock. However, this motor does not need to operate continuously. A Disconnect Unit can disengage it when additional front-axle power is unnecessary, reducing drivetrain drag and improving efficiency.

When the driver demands more acceleration or when traction conditions require additional grip, the front motor reconnects rapidly. It also contributes during regenerative braking.

This arrangement allows AMG to combine the benefits of a high-performance all-wheel-drive system with an efficiency-focused operating strategy.

The GT 53 uses two synchronous motors instead. Its front motor can also be disconnected under light loads, while a two-speed transmission on the rear axle balances acceleration with efficiency at higher speeds. A short first gear supports strong launches and urban driving, while the second gear is optimised for motorway cruising.

AMG High Performance Battery: Up to 700 km of Range

High output is only part of the equation for an electric performance SUV. Delivering that power repeatedly without excessive thermal limitations is equally important, particularly during sustained high-speed driving or track use.

Mercedes-AMG addresses this challenge with its AMG High Performance Electric Battery, featuring 800-volt technology and directly cooled cylindrical battery cells.

Two battery configurations are planned, with usable capacities of 106 kWh and 128 kWh. The larger battery uses 22 modules, while the smaller configuration uses 18 modules.

According to Mercedes-AMG, the 128 kWh battery enables a maximum WLTP driving range of up to 700 kilometres. Actual range will depend on the selected model, equipment, driving conditions, temperature and driving style.

The cylindrical cells measure 105 mm in height and 26 mm in diameter. Their dimensions help reduce the distance heat must travel from the cell core to the outer surface, improving thermal management. The aluminium cell housings also provide a combination of low weight and efficient electrical and thermal conductivity.

A full-tab cell design reduces internal electrical resistance, while specialised NCMA cathode and silicon-containing anode chemistry is intended to provide high energy density, rapid charging and long service life.

The most distinctive feature is the cooling system. Rather than relying solely on indirect cooling through conventional battery structures, a specialised electrically non-conductive oil flows directly around each cylindrical cell.

This arrangement is designed to maintain a consistent temperature across the battery pack, supporting high power delivery during acceleration and repeated performance driving.

An integrated thermal-management system coordinates cooling for the battery, electric drive units and other high-voltage components. By directing cooling capacity where it is needed most, the system aims to balance charging speed, performance and efficiency.

710 kW Charging: A Major Step for Electric SUVs

Charging speed is one of the most ambitious aspects of the new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV.

With the 106 kWh battery, the vehicle supports DC charging at up to 600 kW. Mercedes-AMG says this configuration can add up to 380 kilometres of WLTP range in approximately 10 minutes under suitable conditions.

The larger 128 kWh battery raises the maximum charging power to 710 kW, with the manufacturer claiming that up to 450 kilometres of WLTP range can be added in 10 minutes.

For the larger battery, a 10–80 per cent charging session is quoted at as little as 12 minutes. At a 400 kW charging station, the corresponding charging times are approximately 14 minutes for the 106 kWh battery and 16 minutes for the 128 kWh version.

These figures are manufacturer claims based on specified charging conditions. Actual charging performance will depend on charger capability, battery temperature, state of charge and other factors. Reaching the quoted maximum also requires compatible charging infrastructure.

The vehicle can charge at 800-volt stations and is designed to support 400-volt infrastructure through automatic voltage adaptation. Mercedes-AMG also lists compatibility with five regional fast-charging standards: CCS2 in Europe, GB/T in China, CHAdeMO in Japan, CCS1 in South Korea and NACS in the United States.

If these charging capabilities translate into real-world performance, the GT SUV could significantly reduce charging stops on long-distance journeys. However, the availability of charging stations capable of delivering power at these levels will remain a crucial consideration.

AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL+: An Electric SUV With Sports-Car Handling

Despite its substantial dimensions, the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV has been engineered to deliver the precise handling expected from an AMG performance model.

The centrepiece is the new AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL+ suspension, which combines adaptive air springs with active hydraulic pitch and roll stabilisation. It is standard on the GT 63 SUV and optional on the GT 55 SUV.

Instead of relying exclusively on conventional anti-roll bars, the system uses active hydraulic elements to control body movements during cornering, acceleration and braking.

A central pump and electronically controlled valves regulate hydraulic pressure according to the selected driving mode and current driving conditions. The system is designed to reduce body roll in corners, limit front-end dive under braking and minimise front-end lift during acceleration.

Three-stage adjustable air springs, an integrated 8.2-litre pressure reservoir and hydraulically interconnected dampers help the suspension respond rapidly to changes in the road surface.

The system is also designed to maintain comfort when only one side of the vehicle encounters an uneven surface, helping the SUV remain composed on imperfect roads.

Speed-dependent ride-height adjustment further supports aerodynamic efficiency at higher speeds.

The suspension uses a multi-link arrangement at both the front and rear, with forged aluminium components helping to reduce unsprung mass.

The objective is straightforward: deliver the comfort of a premium long-distance SUV while providing the body control and precision required for enthusiastic driving.

Rear-Wheel Steering and AMG Performance 4MATIC+

The Mercedes-AMG GT SUV also features active rear-axle steering as standard, with rear-wheel steering angles of up to six degrees.

At speeds below 80 km/h, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This effectively shortens the vehicle’s turning circle, improving manoeuvrability in urban environments and helping the SUV change direction more quickly.

Above 80 km/h, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels, by up to one degree. This effectively lengthens the wheelbase and improves stability during high-speed lane changes and sweeping corners.

The system works alongside AMG Performance 4MATIC+, a fully variable all-wheel-drive system designed to distribute torque according to driving conditions.

In the GT 63 and GT 55, three independent axial flux motors allow particularly precise torque management. The two rear motors can also distribute torque between the rear wheels, supporting targeted torque vectoring to improve cornering behaviour.

The front motor can be disconnected when additional traction is unnecessary and re-engaged when acceleration, regenerative braking or road conditions require it.

For the GT 53, the front synchronous motor similarly provides additional traction when required.

Together, these technologies are intended to provide strong acceleration, improved stability and more precise handling in a wide range of conditions, including wet roads, snow and ice.

AMG RACE ENGINEER: Customising the Driving Experience

For drivers who want to fine-tune the vehicle’s behaviour, the GT 63 and GT 55 introduce the AMG RACE ENGINEER system.

The technology combines a high-performance control chip with three rotary controls on the centre console, allowing the driver to adjust key aspects of the powertrain and vehicle dynamics.

Response Control adjusts how quickly the electric motors react to accelerator inputs, allowing the driver to choose between a smoother response and more immediate power delivery.

Agility Control influences the vehicle’s cornering behaviour through variable torque distribution, enabling different handling characteristics depending on the selected driving mode and stability-control settings.

Traction Control provides nine levels of adjustment for the traction-control system in the appropriate performance modes.

The aim is to give experienced drivers greater control over how the electric SUV responds during spirited driving and track sessions.

For everyday use, the system can be left in a more conservative configuration. On a closed circuit, it allows a more individual approach to power delivery, cornering balance and wheel slip.

Seven Driving Modes, From Comfort to RACE

The AMG GT SUV offers seven AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes: Comfort, Sport, AMGFORCE Sport+, RACE, Slippery, Individual and Eco.

Comfort prioritises a relaxed ride, balanced responses and efficient operation. Sport sharpens the vehicle’s reactions for more dynamic driving on public roads.

AMGFORCE Sport+ takes a different approach by adding a simulated combustion-engine experience, while RACE is designed for circuit use with a firmer suspension setting, more direct responses and reduced driver assistance.

The RACE programme also includes features such as Drift Mode, Drag Race, Track Race and Launch Control, subject to the applicable configuration and operating conditions.

Slippery adjusts the vehicle for low-grip surfaces, including wet roads, snow and ice. Eco focuses on efficiency, including optimised power delivery and reduced drivetrain losses. Individual allows drivers to configure selected vehicle parameters according to personal preferences.

An additional boost function can be activated by pulling both steering-wheel paddles in the appropriate driving modes. Mercedes-AMG says this temporarily increases available power and torque while sharpening accelerator response.

The system is also designed to deliver a more pronounced acceleration sensation, accompanied by specific acoustic effects and seatbelt tensioning.

Simulated V8 Sound for an Electric AMG

One of the most controversial aspects of high-performance electric cars is the loss of the sound and mechanical feedback traditionally associated with combustion engines.

Mercedes-AMG is attempting to address this with AMGFORCE Sport+, a system that reproduces the characteristic sound of a V8 in the GT 63 and GT 55, and a six-cylinder engine in the GT 53.

Rather than generating an entirely artificial sound profile from scratch, AMG says the system uses recordings derived from more than 100 measurements involving 16 microphones and reference vehicles, including the Mercedes-AMG GT R.

The resulting soundscape adapts to the driver’s actions, including acceleration and simulated gear changes.

Steering-wheel paddles can be used to trigger simulated shifts, while a dedicated instrument display and integrated seat shakers add further sensory feedback.

Drivers can adjust the sound experience using selectable profiles such as Powerful, Balanced and Silent, with additional settings spanning more traditional and futuristic sound characteristics.

The system also provides dedicated sounds for functions such as unlocking, locking and charging. Mercedes-AMG plans further acoustic experiences, including Launch Control, Boost and Showtime modes.

Purists may argue that simulated engine sounds cannot replace the mechanical character of a real V8. Nevertheless, AMG’s approach demonstrates how manufacturers are attempting to preserve the emotional dimension of performance driving as electrification advances.

Aerodynamics: Active Spoiler and Airflow Management

The exterior design of the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV is not simply a styling exercise. Active aerodynamic systems have been integrated to improve efficiency, stability and traction at different speeds.

The AEROKINETICS Airpanel uses vertical slats in the front bumper to control cooling airflow. Under normal conditions, the slats can remain closed to reduce aerodynamic drag. They open when the vehicle’s cooling systems require additional airflow.

The active AEROKINETICS roof spoiler, fitted to the GT 63 and GT 55, is designed to remain integrated into the vehicle’s silhouette at lower speeds.

From 150 km/h, the spoiler adjusts automatically according to speed, acceleration, vehicle dynamics and cooling-air requirements. Depending on the situation, it can prioritise reduced drag or additional aerodynamic stability.

During more aggressive driving, the spoiler can adopt a steeper angle to improve aerodynamic balance and traction.

The SUV’s low roofline and carefully managed frontal area also contribute to aerodynamic efficiency. At the same time, Mercedes-AMG says its packaging strategy preserves generous headroom, interior space and ground clearance.

Lightweight construction is another part of the equation. The body structure combines aluminium, steel and fibre-reinforced composites to achieve high rigidity while keeping weight under control.

The centrally integrated high-voltage battery is housed within a protective structure that forms part of the vehicle’s crash-management concept.

Exterior Design: Muscular Proportions With a Low GT Silhouette

The new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV adopts an unmistakably performance-focused design.

Its steep front end, wide track, muscular shoulders and flared wheel arches give it an imposing stance, while the low roofline and extended wheelbase distinguish it from more conventional luxury SUVs.

The windscreen and roof flow into a dynamic profile that slopes towards the rear spoiler. Short overhangs and large wheels further emphasise the vehicle’s sporting proportions.

Frameless side windows reinforce the connection with the AMG GT sports-car family, while carefully shaped side surfaces and compact exterior mirrors contribute to the streamlined appearance.

At the front, the AMG-specific radiator grille features metallic vertical struts and a distinctive frame. An illuminated grille and illuminated Mercedes-Benz star are available as options.

The lighting signature includes star-shaped daytime running lights and six circular rear lights arranged in a turbine-inspired design. An optional rear light strip adds another distinctive visual element.

According to Bastian Baudy, Chief Design Officer at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, the SUV’s muscular shoulders, wide track and low silhouette are intended to communicate its performance capabilities before the driver even gets behind the wheel.

Interior: A Driver-Focused AMG Cockpit

Inside, the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV translates the design philosophy of the AMG GT cockpit into a more spacious SUV environment.

The driver sits relatively low and integrated into the vehicle, creating a sportier driving position than the upright seating arrangement typically associated with full-size SUVs.

The dashboard is dominated by a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch central multimedia display angled towards the driver. A separate 14-inch screen is available for the front passenger.

The centre console incorporates physical controls and, in the GT 63 and GT 55, the three rotary AMG RACE ENGINEER controls.

An AMG Performance steering wheel provides direct access to key driving functions, including energy-recovery adjustments through its paddles.

The seats are designed to combine strong lateral support with long-distance comfort. AMG Performance seats with integrated headrests are available as an option.

Mercedes-AMG has also paid attention to rear-seat practicality. Despite the sloping roofline, the rear compartment is designed to provide generous headroom and legroom. A three-seat rear bench is standard, and the rear seatbacks can be folded to increase cargo versatility.

Electrically folding rear headrests add convenience, while the panoramic SKY CONTROL glass roof can switch between transparent and opaque modes. Optional AMG lighting effects are designed to enhance the cabin atmosphere at night.

Ambient lighting, carefully coordinated display themes and a selection of upholstery and trim materials allow owners to personalise the interior.

MANUFAKTUR Personalisation: More Than 60 Paint Colours

Buyers looking for a more individual specification will have access to an extensive MANUFAKTUR personalisation programme.

Mercedes-AMG says more than 60 exclusive exterior paint finishes will be available, providing a broad range of colours and finishes beyond the standard palette.

For the first time, AMG forged wheels can also feature colour accents. Options include matt vanadium silver, matt copper and matt black wheels with contrasting rim details in Angel Blue, Sunny Lime or Orange Flame.

The interior can be customised with MANUFAKTUR seat belts in Fjord Blue, Green Hell or Orange Flame, bringing additional colour into the cabin.

These options allow customers to create a vehicle that reflects their personal tastes while retaining the distinctive proportions and performance-focused design of the AMG GT SUV.

MB.OS and MBUX: AI-Powered Digital Technology

The digital experience is another central element of the new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV.

The latest generation of MBUX runs on the Mercedes-Benz Operating System, known as MB.OS, which coordinates infotainment, vehicle settings and connected services through a unified software architecture.

The driver can choose from several instrument-display styles, including Classic, AMG Special, Pure, Vehicle Data and Trip. The AMG-specific interfaces provide information such as power output, temperatures, tyre data and navigation details.

The Zero Layer interface displays frequently used applications, relevant information and context-sensitive suggestions, allowing drivers to access key functions more quickly.

Mercedes-Benz also integrates three artificial-intelligence services into MBUX: ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing and Google Gemini. The MBUX Virtual Assistant is designed to support more complex, multi-step conversations, making voice interaction more natural.

Availability and functionality of individual services may vary by market, subscription and software configuration.

The system is complemented by three AMG-specific applications: AMG PERFORMANCE MENU, AMG SET-UP and AMG TRACK PACE.

The AMG PERFORMANCE MENU displays real-time information about the vehicle’s electric powertrain and driving dynamics. Energy Flow visualises power distribution between the axles, while Aero Flow shows the status of the active aerodynamic components.

Other functions provide information on tyre and operating temperatures, suspension behaviour, electrical power availability and acceleration forces.

AMG SET-UP allows drivers to configure vehicle functions and customise selected steering-wheel controls, driving programmes and aerodynamic settings.

AMG TRACK PACE: Track Telemetry for Performance Drivers

The GT SUV’s performance technology extends beyond public-road driving.

AMG TRACK PACE records more than 80 vehicle-specific data points at a rate of ten measurements per second, allowing drivers to analyse lap times, acceleration, braking and other performance metrics.

Lap and sector times can be displayed across the instrument cluster, central multimedia screen and head-up display. The system includes a selection of pre-installed circuits and allows drivers to record their own routes.

Track-focused navigation can provide information about corner angles, braking points and the preferred racing line. An augmented-reality function can overlay a previously recorded racing line to help drivers refine their technique.

Acceleration and deceleration data can also be measured and stored for later analysis. An optional dashcam, where available, can record HD video with overlays showing information such as speed, acceleration, steering angle and brake application.

Another advanced feature is the Predictive Performance Manager, or PPM, technology previously used during the record-setting programme of the Mercedes-AMG CONCEPT AMG GT XX.

The system manages the distribution of electrical energy according to the selected RACE or SPRINT strategy and the demands of individual sections of a circuit.

Rather than continuously requesting maximum power, the software can preserve energy on sections where additional output offers limited benefit, making more power available for uphill sections and long straights.

On a demanding circuit such as the Nürburgring Nordschleife, this approach could help improve consistency over multiple laps by balancing power delivery and thermal management.

The technology reflects a growing trend in electric performance cars: intelligent energy management is becoming just as important as peak motor output when chasing repeatable lap times.

Braking Performance: Carbon-Ceramic Hardware for the GT 63

The braking system is tailored to each version of the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV.

The GT 53 features steel brakes at both axles, while the GT 55 also receives steel brakes as standard. Buyers of the GT 55 can specify carbon-ceramic brakes as an option.

The flagship GT 63 comes equipped with carbon-ceramic brakes on both the front and rear axles.

This arrangement reflects the different performance targets of the three models. Carbon-ceramic systems are particularly relevant to vehicles expected to handle repeated high-energy braking, although actual stopping performance also depends on tyres, road conditions, temperature and vehicle load.

Combined with active suspension, rear-wheel steering and variable all-wheel drive, the braking hardware is intended to help the GT SUV maintain control during demanding driving.

Production at Sindelfingen, Germany

The new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV will be assembled at Mercedes-Benz’s Sindelfingen plant in Germany, specifically in Hall 32, which has been adapted for the requirements of AMG.EA production.

The facility will handle key manufacturing processes, including pressed components, body-in-white construction and paintwork.

Founded in 1915, Sindelfingen is one of the historic manufacturing sites within the Mercedes-Benz Group. Its role in producing the new electric AMG underlines the importance of existing German manufacturing facilities as Mercedes-Benz expands its high-performance electric vehicle portfolio.

Mercedes-AMG GT SUV Price and Release Date

The Mercedes-AMG GT SUV will initially be available in three versions, with the GT 53 arriving first.

The GT 53 SUV is scheduled to open for orders on 20 October 2026, with a starting price of €113,050. The GT 55 and GT 63 are expected to follow in spring 2027.

Mercedes-AMG has not provided a complete price list for all variants in the supplied announcement. Final prices, equipment availability and delivery schedules may differ between markets.

For buyers considering a high-performance electric SUV, the three-model line-up provides a clear distinction between the entry-level dual-motor configuration and the more powerful three-motor versions.

The GT 53 offers 544 hp, while the GT 55 raises output to 816 hp. The GT 63 sits at the top of the range with 1,169 hp and a claimed 0–100 km/h time of just 2.5 seconds.

Is the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV a New Benchmark for Electric Performance SUVs?

The Mercedes-AMG GT SUV arrives with an ambitious technical specification and a clear objective: to demonstrate that an electric SUV can deliver supercar-level acceleration without sacrificing long-distance comfort, everyday practicality or charging convenience.

Its combination of axial flux motors, an 800-volt electrical architecture, directly cooled cylindrical battery cells and active hydraulic suspension gives it a distinctive engineering identity within the Mercedes-AMG line-up.

The headline numbers are impressive. Up to 1,169 hp, a 270 km/h maximum speed with the Driver’s Package, a claimed 700-kilometre WLTP range and charging capability of up to 710 kW position the GT 63 SUV among the most ambitious electric performance vehicles announced by the brand.

However, peak power and maximum charging rates tell only part of the story. Real-world range, repeated acceleration performance, charging availability and handling on public roads will ultimately determine how well the vehicle fulfils its promise.

The simulated V8 and six-cylinder sound experience also reveals an important aspect of AMG’s strategy. Electric performance is no longer being defined exclusively by acceleration and power output; manufacturers are increasingly attempting to recreate the emotional feedback that has historically distinguished their combustion-engine models.

If the production vehicle delivers on its technical claims, the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV could become a significant contender in the premium electric performance SUV segment.

For AMG, the mission is clear: preserve the character of a sports car while embracing the possibilities of electrification. The new GT SUV is the brand’s boldest attempt yet to prove that these two worlds can coexist.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé Is “TOO HARD TO RESIST”

Mercedes-AMG is putting performance firmly in the spotlight with the new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé, and this time the stage is Hollywood. Starting in October 2026, the high-performance electric four-door will headline Mercedes-AMG’s new global brand campaign, “TOO HARD TO RESIST”, alongside Hollywood star Brad Pitt.

Following the world premiere of the new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé in Los Angeles in May, the campaign brings together two very different expressions of performance: the controlled precision of a Hollywood production and the spontaneous, emotional experience of driving an AMG.

Brad Pitt, whose career has combined ambition, precision and performance, becomes the ideal on-screen partner for Mercedes-AMG as the brand introduces its latest performance flagship to a global audience.

When the Car Becomes the Star

Set in Los Angeles, the “TOO HARD TO RESIST” campaign begins like a classic Hollywood production. Cameras are rolling, the crew is in position and every scene is carefully choreographed.

But the arrival of the new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé changes the script.

Rather than simply serving as another prop on a film set, the AMG becomes the central character. The carefully controlled production gives way to a dynamic environment built around driving emotion, performance and the instinctive desire to get behind the wheel.

That idea is captured by the campaign’s tagline: “TOO HARD TO RESIST”.

The message is intended to describe more than the advertising campaign. Mercedes-AMG is using it to define the character of the new GT 4-Door Coupé itself, combining dramatic design with electric performance, agility and a strong emphasis on the emotional side of driving.

Brad Pitt and Mercedes-AMG: Performance Meets Hollywood

Brad Pitt’s involvement gives the campaign a distinctly cinematic character, but Mercedes-AMG says the partnership is based on shared values including ambition and performance.

The Hollywood actor joins the new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé at a significant moment for Mercedes-AMG as the brand expands its high-performance electric technology.

The campaign also builds on Mercedes-AMG’s previous promotional activity surrounding the car. In 2025, the brand generated attention with a Las Vegas stunt involving an AMG GT 4-Door Coupé prototype. The new campaign moves the story from spectacular stunt work to a more personal interpretation of what makes an AMG exciting to drive.

The result is deliberately positioned somewhere between cinema and automotive performance: a film set that ultimately becomes a playground for the car.

Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé: Electric Performance With 1,169 HP

Behind the Hollywood imagery is a car that represents a major technological step for Mercedes-AMG.

The new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé is based on the company’s dedicated AMG Electric Architecture, known as AMG.EA. Rather than adapting an existing combustion-engine platform for electric propulsion, Mercedes-AMG has developed the architecture specifically around the requirements of high-performance electric vehicles.

At the centre of the technology are three axial-flux electric motors and directly cooled battery cells.

The system is capable of producing up to 860 kW, equivalent to 1,169 hp. Those figures put the new AMG GT 4-Door Coupé firmly into the territory traditionally occupied by the world’s most extreme performance cars.

The use of axial-flux motors is particularly significant. Compared with conventional radial-flux electric motors, axial-flux technology can offer a combination of high power density and compact dimensions, characteristics that are particularly valuable in a performance vehicle where weight, packaging and power delivery are critical.

Mercedes-AMG is also focusing heavily on battery cooling. Directly cooled battery cells are designed to help the high-voltage system maintain consistent performance under demanding conditions, an essential requirement for a car developed not simply for rapid acceleration, but for sustained high-performance driving.

Technology Proven by the AMG GT XX Concept

The new production AMG GT 4-Door Coupé’s performance technology has already been previewed by the Mercedes-AMG CONCEPT GT XX.

In 2025, the concept demonstrated the potential of the AMG.EA architecture during a spectacular record-setting drive at the Nardò test facility in Italy.

That demonstration was important because it showed Mercedes-AMG’s ambitions extend beyond headline acceleration figures. The company’s next-generation electric performance technology is being developed around high-speed capability, efficiency and the ability to sustain demanding driving conditions.

The production AMG GT 4-Door Coupé now brings that technological philosophy closer to the road.

A New Definition of AMG Performance

For decades, Mercedes-AMG has built its reputation around powerful combustion engines, rear-wheel drive dynamics and the unmistakable character of its high-performance cars. The AMG GT 4-Door Coupé represents a new chapter in that story.

Its AMG.EA architecture signals a fundamental change in the way Mercedes-AMG approaches performance. Electric propulsion allows engineers to rethink power delivery, packaging and vehicle dynamics, while the company’s focus remains firmly on creating an emotional driving experience.

That distinction is central to the “TOO HARD TO RESIST” campaign.

The message is not simply about how quickly the car can accelerate or how much power its electric motors can produce. Instead, Mercedes-AMG wants the new GT 4-Door Coupé to be perceived as a car that creates an instinctive desire to drive it.

In other words, the numbers are only part of the story.

From Hollywood Set to Driver’s Seat

The campaign was filmed alongside the world-premiere production in Los Angeles and was created by team x together with production house Tony Petersen Film. Simon McQuoid directed the project.

McQuoid’s experience in large-scale cinematic productions fits naturally with a campaign that deliberately blurs the boundaries between Hollywood filmmaking and automotive performance.

The central concept is simple: the script can be perfect, the cameras can be ready and every movement can be planned, but the arrival of a car with this level of performance can make the carefully constructed world of the film set difficult to resist.

The global Mercedes-AMG “TOO HARD TO RESIST” campaign launches in October 2026.

For Mercedes-AMG, it is also an opportunity to introduce a new generation of customers to a very different interpretation of the performance car.

The new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé combines the visual drama expected from an AMG flagship with an all-electric powertrain capable of producing up to 1,169 hp. With AMG.EA technology, three axial-flux motors and directly cooled battery cells, it represents one of the most important steps yet in the company’s transition toward electric performance.

And if Mercedes-AMG’s message is anything to go by, the hardest part may not be resisting the car’s performance.

It may be resisting the temptation to drive it.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung: 646 HP, Rear-Wheel Drive and Just 30 Examples

The Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is not simply a more powerful version of the CLE Coupé. It is a comprehensive, hand-built transformation designed around one overriding objective: maximum driving dynamics. With a 646-hp V8 biturbo engine, rear-wheel drive, a significantly widened body, adjustable racing suspension and more than 250 kilograms of downforce at top speed, this road-legal coupé is engineered to feel as convincing on a winding country road as it is on a closed circuit.

Limited to just 30 examples worldwide, the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is the second model in Mercedes-Benz’s exclusive Mythos Series. Every car is comprehensively rebuilt at Mercedes-AMG’s headquarters in Affalterbach, and the entire production run was sold out before the model’s world premiere.

A CLE Reimagined as a Complete Performance System

The project began with an idea inside AMG’s engineering department rather than a conventional product-development brief. A small team initially built a prototype to answer a straightforward question: how far could the CLE be pushed toward maximum driving performance?

The answer was not a collection of optional upgrades. AMG engineers reworked the vehicle as an integrated performance system, combining a more powerful engine, a bespoke chassis, extensive lightweight construction, a wider bodyshell and purpose-developed aerodynamics.

The current Mercedes-AMG CLE Coupé provides the technical foundation, but the Spezialanfertigung is extensively modified. Approximately 170 kilograms have been removed compared with the donor vehicle, while the bodyshell itself has been reinforced and widened. The result is effectively a new performance machine, rebuilt to Affalterbach manufactory standards.

That extensive reconstruction explains the model’s name. “Spezialanfertigung” translates roughly as “special manufacture,” and in this case the designation describes far more than a cosmetic special edition.

646-HP V8 Biturbo with a Flat-Plane Crankshaft

At the center of the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is an extensively enhanced version of AMG’s M177 EVO 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine. The model’s name reflects its output: 646 hp (475 kW), with 850 Nm of torque available across a broad engine-speed range from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm.

The engine uses a flat-plane crankshaft, which reduces rotating mass and improves its ability to build revs. AMG has also developed dedicated engine mapping to sharpen throttle response and make the power delivery more immediate.

This is not a power increase designed merely to inflate a specification sheet. The engine has been integrated into a wider package intended to deliver a more responsive and engaging driving experience, particularly when the driver is working through corners and modulating the throttle.

Three Cooling Circuits for Extreme Loads

The V8’s thermal-management system has been enhanced to cope with the demands of intensive racetrack use and high ambient temperatures. It employs three separate cooling circuits:

  • A high-temperature circuit for the engine.
  • A low-temperature circuit for charge-air cooling.
  • A second low-temperature circuit for transmission oil and the 48-volt components.

The system is designed to maintain thermal stability under sustained loads, helping the engine and drivetrain deliver consistent performance rather than merely a brief peak output.

Titanium Exhaust and Akrapovič Collaboration

The V8’s character is reinforced by a bespoke high-performance exhaust system with increased flow capacity and a deliberately emotional sound signature. The cold-end design was developed in cooperation with Akrapovič, while extensive use of titanium contributes to the vehicle’s weight reduction.

The result is intended to preserve the unmistakable AMG V8 soundtrack while supporting the car’s broader lightweight and performance objectives.

Rear-Wheel Drive Replaces AMG 4MATIC+

One of the most consequential changes is hidden beneath the bodywork. The donor vehicle’s AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system has been removed entirely.

The CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung sends its power exclusively to the rear wheels. That decision reduces weight, but more importantly, it fundamentally changes the car’s dynamic character. The driver becomes more directly involved in managing the relationship between engine torque, rear-axle traction and cornering attitude.

An electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential varies its locking action to optimize torque distribution between the driven wheels. This improves traction, stability and overall dynamic performance, while also allowing controlled drifting under suitable conditions.

It is a deliberately less forgiving configuration than all-wheel drive, but that is precisely the point. The Spezialanfertigung is designed to provide a more direct connection between the driver and the car.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G and 310 km/h Top Speed

Power is transmitted through AMG’s SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G nine-speed automatic transmission. The torque-converter gearbox combines rapid gear changes with a more relaxed shifting character when the selected drive program calls for it.

Depending on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT setting, the transmission can deliver sharp, sporty shifts or exceptionally smooth gear changes. It can also execute multiple downshifts in quick succession, allowing the engine to reach its most effective rev range almost immediately.

The Launch Control system has been specifically adapted to the rear-wheel-drive layout. Mercedes-AMG quotes a 0–200 km/h acceleration time of 11.4 seconds, while top speed is limited to 310 km/h.

Those figures are impressive, but the more revealing detail is the drivetrain layout: this is a car designed to make its performance accessible through driver inputs rather than relying exclusively on maximum traction.

A Racing-Inspired Chassis Developed with KW Automotive

The suspension is one of the defining features of the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung. Mercedes-AMG worked with KW automotive to develop a steel coilover suspension system that can be precisely tuned for different driving styles, circuits and road conditions.

At its core is four-way adjustable damper technology, with independently configurable:

  • Low-speed rebound.
  • Low-speed compression.
  • High-speed rebound.
  • High-speed compression.

The low-speed settings influence body movements during braking, acceleration and turn-in. Their performance-focused calibration is intended to deliver sharper handling, improved driver feedback and greater stability.

The high-speed settings address rapid wheel movements caused by bumps, kerbs and surface irregularities. This allows the dampers to maintain control without compromising the car’s ability to absorb demanding road inputs.

The objective is not simply a stiff ride. It is a chassis that can be tuned to provide direct feedback, strong body control, traction and confidence when the car is operating close to its limits.

Ceramic Brakes Designed for Racetrack Abuse

The braking system has been engineered for sustained high loads. The AMG Ceramic High-Performance Composite Braking System includes a dedicated brake-cooling concept developed specifically for the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung.

Large air intakes in the front bumper and airflow-guiding elements improve heat dissipation. At the front axle, 420 x 40 mm internally ventilated and perforated ceramic discs are paired with six-piston fixed calipers. The rear axle uses 360 x 32 mm ceramic discs with single-piston floating calipers.

The front discs feature long-fiber technology designed to transfer heat more rapidly from the friction surface into the cooling channels. This helps reduce brake-pad temperatures during demanding braking.

Ceramic construction also reduces weight and unsprung mass compared with a conventional braking system. That benefits more than stopping performance: lower unsprung mass can improve wheel control, turn-in response and the suspension’s ability to follow the road.

The gold-painted calipers provide a visual reminder that this is a braking system designed for extreme performance.

A Body 60 Millimeters Wider at Both Axles

The CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung’s proportions are not merely dramatic for the sake of appearance. Its bodywork has been extensively modified to support the car’s performance objectives.

The bodyshell has been reinforced and widened, increasing vehicle width by 60 millimeters at both the front and rear. The wider stance improves stability and cornering potential while creating the space required for exceptionally wide wheels and tires.

Carbon fiber is used extensively throughout the exterior, including:

  • Widened front fenders with integrated air outlets.
  • A redesigned front apron with large cooling intakes.
  • Side sill panels.
  • A bonnet with a central cold-air intake.
  • The roof.
  • The rear apron and diffuser.
  • A reinforced boot lid.
  • A manually adjustable rear wing.

The rear side windows and rear window are made from polycarbonate, while a lighter 12-volt starter battery contributes to the overall weight reduction.

The body structure also includes additional reinforcements and an integrated roll-over bar. These measures increase torsional rigidity, providing the foundation for precise suspension tuning and consistent driver feedback under high loads.

20-Inch Wheels with Tires Developed from AMG ONE Technology

The widened carbon-fiber fenders accommodate exclusive AMG Performance forged wheels measuring:

  • Front: 11.0 J x 20.
  • Rear: 12.0 J x 20.

They are fitted with exceptionally wide tires measuring 305/30 ZR20 at the front and 335/30 ZR20 at the rear. The tires are based on a further development of technology originally created for the Mercedes-AMG ONE.

Their design remains exclusive to the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung, reinforcing the car’s position as a limited-production performance flagship rather than a conventional CLE variant.

The suspension also lowers the car by 22 millimeters at the front axle and 16 millimeters at the rear, giving it a lower center of gravity and a more purposeful stance.

A Two-Tone Finish for a One-Off Presence

The exterior design is finished in a distinctive two-tone combination. The front section is painted Mojave Silver Magno, while the bodywork from the B-pillar rearwards is finished in Obsidian Black Magno.

AMG crests on the driver’s and passenger’s doors emphasize the car’s bespoke character. The enormous grille, wide fenders and extensive exposed carbon-fiber elements give the CLE a far more aggressive presence than the standard coupé.

Yet the design is not simply about visual drama. Every major exterior modification serves a technical purpose, from cooling and wheelhouse ventilation to aerodynamic balance and downforce.

Aerodynamics: More Than 250 Kilograms of Downforce

The CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung’s aerodynamic package includes a front diffuser, fender louvers, underbody modifications and a manually adjustable rear wing.

The front diffuser can be adjusted between two positions using three fasteners:

  • Street: intended for road use.
  • Race: intended exclusively for racetrack operation.

In the Race position, the diffuser creates an inverted-wing profile beneath the front end. It accelerates airflow under the car and generates a Venturi effect, increasing front-axle downforce.

The benefits are intended to be felt through the steering wheel. Increased front-end load improves high-speed stability, turn-in response and steering precision when the car is subjected to high lateral forces.

The center section of the carbon-fiber rear wing can also be manually adjusted to increase rear-axle downforce and achieve the desired aerodynamic balance on a circuit.

Fender Louvers and Underbody Airflow

Open louvers in the widened front fenders improve wheelhouse ventilation while contributing to downforce. An airflow channel next to the headlights directs air through the wheel arches and out through the louvers.

Additional flics mounted on the sides of the front apron optimize airflow, increasing front-axle downforce while also supporting brake cooling.

The aerodynamic work continues beneath the vehicle. The front underbody remains almost fully enclosed, while longitudinal fins in the flat floor locally accelerate airflow and contribute to additional downforce.

Mercedes-AMG states that the complete system generates well over 250 kilograms of downforce at top speed.

That figure is particularly significant because it comes from an integrated package rather than a single large wing. The diffuser, underbody, wheelhouse ventilation and rear wing are designed to work together, balancing aerodynamic load across both axles.

Nine-Stage AMG TRACTION CONTROL

For closed-circuit driving with ESP switched off, the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung features AMG TRACTION CONTROL, allowing the driver to select the level of rear-wheel slip support.

The system offers nine stages of adjustment, enabling the driver to tailor the car’s behavior to tire temperature, track conditions and personal preference.

At one end of the spectrum, the system can provide greater assistance in managing the engine’s considerable output. At the other, it allows experienced drivers to operate closer to the handling limit with reduced electronic intervention.

This is a feature that reinforces the car’s central philosophy: the driver should be able to determine how the car responds, rather than simply selecting a generic “Sport” or “Track” mode.

A Lightweight Interior with a Clear Purpose

The interior follows the same uncompromising approach as the exterior. AMG has removed the rear seats and acoustic insulation materials, reduced comfort equipment and simplified the sound system to save weight.

Several drive modes and assistance systems have also been deleted, allowing the number of controls on the AMG Performance steering wheel to be reduced.

The steering wheel itself is covered in DINAMICA microfiber and features a motorsport-inspired flattened shape designed to provide grip and control.

Ultra-lightweight racing bucket seats with pronounced lateral support are fitted as standard. A roll-over bar increases torsional rigidity, while lightweight carbon-fiber door panels complete the interior package.

The optional Performance Package adds six-point harnesses for the driver and passenger, further emphasizing the car’s circuit-focused character.

Hand-Built in Affalterbach

Every Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is hand-built in Affalterbach, based on a CLE 53 platform. The process continues AMG’s long tradition of exclusive manufactory craftsmanship, a tradition associated with iconic models such as the AMG 300 CE 6.0 “The Hammer.”

The extensive reconstruction is central to the car’s identity. This is not a vehicle that simply receives a power upgrade and a set of cosmetic changes on an assembly line. It is comprehensively rebuilt to meet the demands of its unique performance specification.

The Second Mercedes-Benz Mythos Series Model

The CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is the second model in the Mercedes-Benz Mythos Series, a collection dedicated to exceptionally rare collector vehicles produced in strictly limited numbers.

It follows the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed, which is limited to 250 examples worldwide and features an open two-seat configuration without a roof or windscreen.

The CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung takes a different approach. It remains a road-legal coupé, but its engineering is directed toward uncompromising racetrack performance.

The result is a vehicle that combines a distinctive appearance, extreme performance and an unusually direct driving experience. With only 30 examples planned and the entire production run already sold out before its world premiere, it is also destined to become one of the rarest modern AMG models.

Verdict: A Road-Legal AMG Built Around the Driver

The Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is best understood as a purpose-built performance machine wearing the shape of a luxury coupé.

Its 646-hp V8, rear-wheel-drive layout, four-way adjustable suspension, ceramic brakes, carbon-fiber bodywork and sophisticated aerodynamic package are not isolated upgrades. They are parts of a single concept designed to make the car more precise, more responsive and more involving.

At a time when high-performance cars increasingly rely on all-wheel drive, complex electronic systems and additional weight to deliver speed, the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung takes a more focused approach. It removes weight, narrows the gap between driver and machine, and gives the rear axle a central role in the driving experience.

The result is an exceptionally rare AMG that promises to be as memorable for its engineering philosophy as it is for its performance figures.

Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung key specifications

SpecificationMercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung
Engine4.0-liter V8 biturbo
Power646 hp (475 kW)
Maximum torque850 Nm
DrivetrainRear-wheel drive
TransmissionAMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G, 9-speed automatic
0–200 km/h11.4 seconds
Top speed310 km/h
Weight reductionApproximately 170 kg
Front tire size305/30 ZR20
Rear tire size335/30 ZR20
Front ceramic brake discs420 x 40 mm
Rear ceramic brake discs360 x 32 mm
Downforce at top speedMore than 250 kg
Production30 examples worldwide
Build locationAffalterbach, Germany

Source: Mercedes-Benz