Mercedes-AMG is challenging the Porsche Panamera
with its GT 4-Door Coupe, and to get the new
model off to strong start, it’s kicking
things off with a swanky Edition 1 version,
which adds an upgraded aerodynamics package
and other features to the new four-door model.
The 2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S Edition 1, to
use its full name, is based on the range-topping
GT 63 S model.
That means it packs a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged
V8 with 630 horsepower and 664 pound-feet
of torque.
It’s the same engine used in the two-door
AMG GT sports car, and numerous other Mercedes-AMG
models.
Mercedes claims it can go 0 to 60 mph in 3.1
seconds and a top speed of 195 mph.
Power is sent to all four wheels by default,
but, as with the Mercedes-AMG E63 sedan, the
GT63 features a “drift mode” that diverts
all power to the rear wheels for sideways
shenanigans.
The Edition 1 is distinguished from the standard
GT63 S by an “Aerodynamics Package,” which
includes a larger front splitter and fixed
rear spoiler (Mercedes says it can be “mechanically
adjusted,” meaning you’ll probably need
a wrench).
These bits aren’t just cosmetic — Mercedes
claims they increase downforce without generating
additional drag.
Every Edition 1 gets the same color scheme
of Graphite Grey Magno with Graphite Grey
stripes.
Model-specific 21-inch wheels are part of
the package as well.
Mercedes threw a lot at the interior, including
Nappa leather upholstery, carbon fiber trim,
and yellow contrast stitching and seatbelts.
The “Air Balance” perfume spritzer also
gets a special “AMG#63” fragrance.
The Edition 1 debuts at the ADAC Zurich 24-hour
race at Germany’s famous Nürburgring racetrack
this weekend, but U.S. sales don’t start
until early 2019.
Pricing information will be released closer
to the launch date.
Expect the Edition 1 to be the first AMG GT
4-Door Coupe model to reach customer hands,
followed by the non-Edition 1 GT63 S, and
then the GT63, which uses the same V8 powertrain,
but with 577 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque.
Following the launch of the “63” variants,
Mercedes will add a GT 53 mild-hybrid model,
which uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six
and a small electric motor.
The GT 53 will serve as the base model of
the lineup.
