Next Mercedes-AMG GT to be track-focused coupe

Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that its all-new second-generation Mercedes-AMG GT will switch to its latest SL roadster's MSA spaceframe and be repositioned as more of a track-focused supercar.

Currently based on the elderly SLS AMG architecture that dates back to 2010, the MSA-underpinned 2022 Mercedes-AMG GT is set for powertrains centred around the performance division's twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 – including the mighty 620kW/1400Nm AMG E Performance plug-in hybrid version.

It's thought the 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder mild-hybrid engine will not be offered due to its lack of performance.

Originally, it was suggested that the second-gen GT might abandon combustion power altogether and switch to a battery-electric powertrain.

Mercedes-AMG had already announced an all-new dedicated EV platform dubbed EA was on the way, specially developed for high-performance applications like supercars and hypercars.

Confirming the GT successor would be spun off the new Mercedes-AMG SL that broke cover last week, AMG boss Philip Schiemer told Auto Express how the flagship GT would not go soft for the sequel.

"Our GT drivers are people who love to go with their vehicle on the racetrack. We see this every weekend and we see this when we do our events and driving academies," he said.

"This is the place where the GT drivers are meeting. The classical SL owners are not so much on the racetracks, but more interested in cruising."

To ensure it doesn't steal sales from the seventh instalment of the SL, Schiemer said there would not be a follow-up to the current GT Roadster and that the AMG GT would be coupe-only.

"Of course, the GT will be a very different car from the SL because even if we use the same powertrain layout and the basic principles of the body-in-white structure, for example, we have to make the GT an even sportier car," he said.

Maximising performance, the next AMG GT is expected to employ extensive weight-saving in its construction that includes a heavy use of carbon-fibre for the body panels like the roof, bonnet and boot lid.

The fastest AMG this side of the upcoming ONE hypercar will also potentially miss out on some tech, including the SL's rear-wheel steering, but will benefit from the SL's advanced multi-link front suspension and five-link rear axle.

Set to pinch its advanced aero aids from Formula 1 and the ONE hypercar's gestation, it's thought the next AMG GT's chief rival will be the Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 RS.

Later on, an extreme, more powerful and even lighter Black Series is expected.

There's no word yet on when the AMG GT is set to make its debut, but it's not anticipated to be officially unveiled until later next year at the earliest.