Mercedes-AMG Doubles Down on Grand Touring Coupes

• Mercedes-AMG is on a roll lately, launching its revamped line of 2+2 GT coupes under the Mercedes-AMG GT moniker.

• While the AMG GT 55 and 63 soldier on with seemingly doomed V8 engines, the performance wing is now offering a four-cylinder option, too.

• Known as the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT 43, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder under the hood pumps out an impressive 416 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque.

Mercedes-AMG has long been known for its boisterous, high-displacement engines, dating back to the performance wing's initiation in 1967. In an era of continuously updating emissions regulations, however, the Affalterbach-based brand is doing more with less, literally. A V8 or two remains, but even AMG is proliferating the turbocharged four, too.

For more entry-level models like the AMG CLA lineup, the application of a four-cylinder engine is fitting. However, Mercedes has just revealed an all-new application of its M139 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, and it only has two doors. Plus, unlike its two-door siblings, the new model is rear-wheel drive only.

Following the official pricing and production announcement for the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT lineup, the German brand pulled another model from its hat yesterday, revealing the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT 43. Built on the same SL-derived chassis as its AMG GT 55 and 63 siblings, the GT 43 represents a new, more accessible subset in Mercedes' performance coupe lineup.

Even with a four-cylinder powerplant, there is no shortage of oomph in the AMG GT 43, putting down 416 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. That's good for 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 174 mph. On paper, these numbers are in line with a Mercedes-AMG product, and the chassis construction is no different across the GT lineup.

However, being a more affordable version of the upscale grand touring coupe means some material changes were made. Namely, instead of the standard adaptive and adjustable damping, the AMG GT 43 rides on high-performance aluminum shock absorbers and lightweight steel coil springs. Analog is back, at least for this model.

The same efforts to reduce unsprung mass through forged aluminum suspension pieces (links, knuckles, and wheel carriers) remain on the GT 43, as does a slew of active aerodynamic features. Switchable front-end louvers and a retractable rear spoiler help divert air to where it is needed most, for stability or cooling needs.

Braking is performed by six-piston fixed calipers up front and a single floating caliper out back, squeezing the pads together on a composite (part steel, part aluminum) rotor. While its V8-powered brethren ride at around 4200 pounds, Mercedes has hinted that the four-cylinder version will be significantly lighter, likely increasing braking performance.

All five drive modes (Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual) are retained on the lighter, more affordable AMG GT 43, but don't let these dynamic similarities convince you all these models are the same. In fact, Mercedes has added a few unique visual cues to the AMG GT 43.

A new front fascia with larger air inlets as well as narrower front and rear fenders mark the smaller, more agile model. AMG designers also tacked on a different rear end, differing in its double tailpipe trim. Standard are 19-inch wheels, though 20-inch and 21-inch rims are available.

Inside the AMG GT 43, prospective buyers will find a familiar 11.9-inch infotainment screen as well as standard AMG sport seats in Nappa leather. Interior trim materials include high-gloss black, aluminum, AMG carbon fiber, dark chrome, and even open-pore birch wood.

Mercedes has yet to reveal production plans, pricing, or even the curb weight for the AMG GT 43, though we suspect its downgraded powertrain and suspension componentry will decrease its cost significantly. While $136,000 is the starting point for the mid-range AMG GT 55, we suspect this 2025 model-year unit will start closer to $100,000.

"It appeals to customers who love design and focus on elegance but are unwilling to compromise on driving pleasure and driving dynamics," said Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. "The rear-wheel-drive concept makes the GT 43 a very agile vehicle that will put a smile on your face on winding roads."

Will the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT 43 have prevalent competition? Or will it occupy a class of its own? Please share your thoughts below.