Mercedes-AMG is preparing several new V8 models, but it has also developed the new GT SUV, the brand’s first fully electric SUV. Although its huge output could make it seem like another ultra-powerful family vehicle, AMG says the model carries genuine sports-car DNA and offers more than blistering acceleration.
Like the new AMG GT sedan, the SUV is based on the AMG.EA architecture and will be offered in GT 53, GT 55 and GT 63 forms. The GT 53 uses a 106-kWh battery and two electric motors to deliver 536 horsepower and 590 pound-feet (800 Nm) of torque—figures comparable to those found in some AMG V8 SUVs over the last decade. With all-wheel drive, it reaches 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.2 seconds and 124 mph (200 km/h) in 14.6 seconds. It also supports 600 kW charging and offers a combined WLTP range of up to 415 miles (668 km).
The GT 55 increases the performance substantially with three of Mercedes-AMG’s advanced axial-flux motors. Combined output rises to 805 hp and 1,371 lb-ft (1,860 Nm) of torque, reducing the 0-62 mph time to 3.1 seconds and the 0-124 mph run to 9.9 seconds. Buyers can choose between 106-kWh and 128-kWh batteries. With the larger pack, 710 kW DC charging can add 83 kWh in only 10 minutes. Depending on the battery, the GT 55 has a maximum range of 364 miles (585 km) or 435 miles (700 km).
Following the sedan’s lead, Mercedes-AMG has created a hypercar-challenging GT 63. Its three upgraded motors produce 1,153 hp and 1,475 lb-ft (2,000 Nm) of torque, enabling a 0-62 mph sprint in 2.7 seconds and a 0-124 mph time of 7.2 seconds. That is only 0.4 seconds behind the McLaren P1. Despite the extra power, the GT 63 is quoted with the same combined WLTP range as the GT 55.
AMG has clearly prioritized extreme performance, although the GT SUV offers more than power alone. Its styling may be less convincing. The GT sedan already has unconventional looks, while the SUV’s swollen proportions could be even more divisive. It certainly makes a strong visual statement.
The technology extends well beyond the battery and motors. The GT 55 and GT 63 come with AMG Active Ride Control+ suspension, combining triple-stage adjustable air springs with hydraulic systems designed to replace conventional sway bars. The arrangement provides active pitch and roll control, aiming to deliver a comfortable ride while preventing the nose from diving under braking or lifting during hard acceleration. Rear-axle steering is standard and can turn the rear wheels by up to 6 degrees.
The GT SUV is also extremely heavy, with the GT 55 weighing as much as 5,985 lbs (2,715 kg). That mass requires substantial braking hardware. The GT 53 and GT 55 come with steel brakes as standard, although carbon-ceramic units are available for the GT 55 and standard on the GT 63. An intelligent all-wheel-drive system with sophisticated torque vectoring is also included.
The most unusual driver-focused features may be the artificial engine sounds and gearshifts. All three models use the AMGFORCE Sport+ system to imitate the character of a combustion engine: the GT 53 sounds like an inline-six, while the GT 55 and GT 63 draw inspiration from various AMG V8s, including the AMG GT R. Simulated gear changes accompany the sound effects, as they do in the sedan and other EVs such as the Porsche Taycan and Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and 6 N. Mercedes also adds “seat shakers” to make the experience feel more like driving an ICE vehicle, with several soundscapes available.
While the exterior may be unconventional, the cabin is more stylish and closely follows the sedan’s design. It includes a 10.2-inch instrument display, a driver-oriented 14-inch infotainment screen and an optional 14-inch display for the passenger. Carbon fiber is used throughout, including on the center console, while physical controls remain plentiful. Three large rotary dials adjust the chassis response, cornering behavior and slip characteristics. Available equipment includes a 4D Burmester audio system, a Sky Control panoramic glass roof with transparent and opaque settings, and extensive high-end leather trim.
Few owners are likely to take the AMG GT SUV to a circuit, but Mercedes has equipped it for that possibility. The infotainment system’s AMG Track Pack records more than 80 data points and presents important telemetry and live timing on both the driver display and head-up display. Augmented reality can also project a racing line onto the track. The powertrain features dedicated Race and Sprint modes, while road driving can be configured through Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Race, Slippery, Eco and Individual modes.
Mercedes-AMG has not yet revealed a launch date or U.S.-market specifications, although sales are scheduled to begin next summer. In Europe, the GT 53 arrives this week with a starting price of €113,500 ($127,000). The GT 55 and GT 63 are scheduled to launch between March and May, with pricing still to be announced.
The electric Mercedes-AMG GT SUV combines up to 1,153 hp with sports-car-inspired chassis technology, advanced charging capability and a range of driver-focused features. Available as the GT 53, GT 55 and GT 63, it offers up to 435 miles of WLTP range, rear-axle steering, active suspension, artificial gearshifts and track telemetry. European sales begin this week, while U.S. launch details remain undisclosed.
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