Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins, www.AutomotiveRhythms.com
Endearing moments and enthusiastic vibes were experienced in Granada, Spain where time seemed to stand still as I lost myself in life while rediscovering the land. New vistas were created for compatriots who witnessed me fly by in various shades of Hyper Blue utilizing the heroics of the compelling 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT. For the international media drive of this supreme super coupe, Spain’s southern region within the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains was chosen as the hosting environment to assess the latest German artillery.
Stunning in design, prodigious in form, and ambitious when ignited, unleashing the beast manifested palpable emotions while touring the region’s charming villages and medieval architecture, including the Alhambra Palace which I honored with reverence. Built to be a paradise on earth, the enchanting complex — aka Red Fortress — incorporates royal palaces, highly decorated columns and arches, exquisite patios, impressive murals, and ornamented walls.
Cinematically, I captured the vehicle and its scenery to create the perfect balance of contrast. Whether it was bursting through the canyons while climbing 11,414 ft above sea level in the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC + or producing scenes of wonderment for enthralled onlookers at Plaza del Carmen with our bevy of GTs on display, Granada was perfect for the everlasting moments of influence. In addition, cobblestone market streets, delectable foods from local restaurants and cafes, creative shopping, and overnights at Hotel Palacio Gran Vía enhanced my animated visit to Spain.
Our German sports car featured the impressive AMG 4-liter biturbo V8 with 577-horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, allowing the AMG GT 63 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, up to 196 mph. It pairs with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission, AMG Performance 4MATIC+ AWD, active rear-axle steering with 2.5-degree turning for sharper cornering, and the AMG high-performance composite brake system to halt the German from hyperspeeds. The 6-piston front calipers are available in black, yellow, or red. And yes, Mercedes-AMG’s “One Man, One Engine” formula still applies. The creator of our handcrafted powerplant from Affalterbach is Dominic Stark. A second AMG GT 55 model receives 469-horsepower. Both will arrive at U.S. dealerships in the first half of 2024.
“The new Mercedes-AMG GT embodies the essence of the AMG brand stated,” Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “This exhilarating fusion of racetrack spirit and everyday usability is the latest exciting chapter in a story packed with thrilling twists and turns. Standing at the pinnacle of our portfolio, the fifth sports car from Affalterbach developed in-house is the most important shaper for AMG as a performance luxury brand.”
The beginning of a new era for the Mercedes-AMG GT began in 2014 and now continues with the current second-generation model and its supercar offerings. In fact, Michael was in attendance with the media in Granada to offer us detailed insight into the vehicle’s character and the future of AMG as mobility shifts towards electrification. He is optimistic that AMG fanatics will adapt as the company begins swapping out gasoline engines for electric motors.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder; thus, you may love the long-nosed, sloped rear end, or you may not. I think the styling of the composite aluminum body structure is captivating. Eleven paint schemes are available including my favorite, Hyper Blue. The Mercedes-AMG GT’s innovative architecture increases rigidity while an Active Rear Spoiler is adjustable in five positions depending on your speed. The vehicle also receives Front Axle Lift which raises the front fascia for steep approaches. AMG light-alloy forged rims come in 20s or 21s with eight styles to choose from. The wheels are backed by Michelin Pilot Sport 5 performance tires and pair with AMG Performance 4MATIC for more traction, safety, and handling under all conditions.
On the curvy mountain roads of the Sierra Nevada Mountains en route to Viñas de Belén, the Mercedes-AMG GT rounded corners at high speeds in a balanced manner thanks to its specially-tuned AMG Active Ride Control suspension that took control of handling. Emotionally appealing, its addictive power kept me asking for more while it gave me far more than I could handle. Of course, you will want to add the AMG Aerodynamics Package to help improve handling further while providing the basis for Lewis Hamilton-like racing excitement. Once you take hold of the high-tech AMG Performance flat-bottom steering wheel, almost every control will be at your disposal, from the aluminum shift paddles to the AMG DRIVE UNITs that host the Active Exhaust and AMG Dynamic Select settings.
Inside the AMG high-performance cockpit, you will find the heart of the vehicle in the form of the 11.9” central MBUX multimedia screen, available 2+2 seats, increased interior and trunk space, body-colored seatbelts, massaging seats, carbon-fiber trim, and various levels of illumination. The oasis is a comforting mix of innovation and superior craftsmanship that will undoubtedly tap into your senses. The German sanctuary features a 12.3” digital instrument cluster with individually selectable layouts and “Hey Mercedes” natural language voice control akin to a virtual encyclopedia that answers most inquiries. Additionally, multicolor ambient lighting offers various hues to set the proper mood, whether you select Ocean Blue, Red Moon, or Purple Sky.
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT is Another Magnificent German. This game-day performer is thoroughly engineered and digitally savvy to functionally provide patrons with the latest innovations in aerodynamics, advanced safety systems, and artificial intelligence that make you wonder who is in control, you or your AMG?
