The Mercedes-AMG GT is the sports car that represents AMG, the high-performance brand of the Benz Group. GT is short for grand tourer, a high-performance car built to travel long distances comfortably and quickly. The technology of the group's racing team, "Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 (F1) Team," is reflected in this car. It has all the elements of a high-performance sports car, including the majestic exhaust note of its V8 biturbo engine and its sleek silhouette.
The AMG GT 43, the entry-level model in the AMG GT series, was officially released in Korea on the on the . It comes 10 years after the base model of the first-generation AMG GT debuted in 2015. Driving between Seoul and Gyeonggi in the greater capital area, we checked the AMG GT 43's dynamic performance.
The AMG GT series consists of the 43, the 55 released in Jun. last year, and the 63 S E introduced early this year. There is no difference in body size, and the AMG MCT 9-speed transmission is the same across the lineup.
The AMG GT 43 is designed at 4,730 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width, 1,365 mm in height, and a 2,700 mm wheelbase. It is equipped with a 4-cylinder turbo engine and is a rear-wheel-drive model. Mercedes-Benz Korea said the model targets consumers who want a two-door sports car but feel burdened by extreme high performance.
The car delivers a maximum output of 421 horsepower and peak torque of 51.0 kgf·m. It takes 4.9 seconds to accelerate from a standstill to 100 kph, and its top speed is 280 kph. Even considering it was launched as an entry model, many found it puzzling that it came with a 4-cylinder engine rather than the V8 that symbolizes AMG.
On the road, it felt more stable in how it smoothly built speed than like a typical sports car that reacts sharply and maximizes instant acceleration. When changing lanes or overtaking, pressing down on the accelerator increased speed with heft rather than razor-sharp bite.
Set to Sport Plus mode and press the pedal, and the exhaust note also becomes grand. Still, compared with AMG's core V8 engine models, it inevitably feels somewhat lacking.
In corners, it kept body roll in check very stably. The AMG suspension minimized lateral lean, making the car feel planted even when taking corners quickly.
Rear-axle steering, which turns the rear wheels up to 2.5 degrees, is also standard, allowing for light directional changes when squeezing through narrow roads or changing lanes. The car's curb weight is 1.7 tons.
The GT 43 is fitted with an electric turbocharger based on technology from the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team. It mates an electric motor to the exhaust-gas turbocharger to sharpen engine response. That is why you feel excellent thrust when you press the accelerator and why initial acceleration from a stop is smooth.
A driving assistance package, including lane-keeping assist and brake assist, also comes standard. Throughout the test drive, we kept lane-keeping assist on, and the level of intervention was very low. However, the vehicle approach warning chime sounded too frequently, which was distracting.
The seating felt firm. Still, even after 1 hour and 30 minutes of continuous driving, the low seating position did not cause back pain. In particular, there was no discomfort from vibrations during driving, such as when going over speed bumps.
The car features AMG Active Ride Control suspension. This system checks road conditions in real time and provides optimal damping values, which reduce or control a system's vibration or kinetic energy. It is said to absorb unpleasant sensations while running close to the ground and deliver only the road information the driver needs.
AMG Track Pace, which records and analyzes vehicle speed, steering angle, and acceleration and braking data, is also applied. It is a function to review laps on a track, but considering the limits of this car's 4-cylinder engine, it also felt like an unnecessary cost driver.
The second-generation AMG GT 43 improved the practicality of the rear seats. Given the model's nature, it is difficult for an adult to sit in the back, but the folding 2+2 seats look suitable for a young child. Folding the seats expands trunk capacity from 321 liters to 675 liters, allowing a golf bag to be loaded lengthwise.
The third-generation MBUX infotainment system includes the Korea-only "Tmap Auto," which links with the head-up display and Augmented Reality (AR) navigation.
Inside, like the AMG GT 55 and AMG GT 63, it is outfitted with lavish, premium touches. The steering wheel uses Alcantara material, giving a satisfying grip. The seats and dashboard are finished in Nappa leather, adding to the upscale feel.
The test car was a Launch Edition, which is released alongside every AMG GT series rollout. Only 10 units are sold in Korea, featuring a silver exterior and an interior combining red and black Nappa leather. The AMG Night Package and black chrome further emphasize the AMG GT's signature bold impression. The Launch Edition is priced at 160.5 million won (including VAT), while the standard model is 149.5 million won.