A slightly slower but no less dynamic Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe arrives latter this year. If you can give up 1.5 seconds, you’ll save a bit of cash.
The new Mercedes-AMG GT 43 Coupe trades bulk for eloquence.
A new 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT43 coupe is joining the lineup as the entry-level model beneath the more powerful 469-horsepower GT55 and the 577-horsepower GT63. Unlike those models, which boast all-wheel drive, the GT43 comes solely with rear-wheel drive. Not surprisingly, the engine is smaller as well, but you might not suspect how much smaller given its expansive hood. Lift the bonnet and you’ll find a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, 48-volt mild-hybrid setup that generates 416 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque through a nine-speed, dual-clutch transmission.
“It is clearly recognizable as a GT but is clearly different from the other models,” said Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “It appeals to customers who love design and focus on elegance but are unwilling to compromise on driving pleasure and driving dynamics.”
In other words, it’s slower than other Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe models. In fact, its 0-60 mph time is 4.5 seconds, according to Mercedes. That’s not bad, but will be a non-starter for those who value every second. By comparison, the GT63 reaches 60 mph in 3 seconds.
LOOKING GOOD
Pretty from every angle: the Mercedes-AMG GT 43 Coupe.
An AMG steel spring suspension with high-performance aluminum shock absorbers and lightweight coil springs comes standard, AMG Ride Control with adaptive damping is optional. Forged aluminum is used in the AMG GT43’s suspension links, steering knuckles and wheel carriers on the front and rear axles to reduce unsprung mass. The ventilated, perforated composite front discs measure 15.4 inches; rears, 14.2 inches.
Mercedes-AMG has made some visual changes to distinguish it from other models by designing the front fascia with large air inlets across the front. Fenders are narrower due to its narrower track.
It’s still relatively fast, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds.
For those who need a bit of flash, there’s an optional AMG Exterior Chrome Package, that bedazzles the front fascia, front fenders and side sill panels with high-gloss chrome trim. At the opposite extreme is the AMG Night Package, which coats the front splitter, side sill trim, exterior mirror housings and window line trim strips in high-gloss black. In addition, you’ll get a dark-tinted rear window and dark chrome tailpipe trim.
THE INSIDE STORY
The interior features an 11.9-inch touchscreen with AMG-specific menu items.
While European buyers will have a choice of 2-seat or 2+2 layouts, Americans will only get the latter version. So much for being concerned about unsprung weight.
Despite being the entry-level model, you do get a fully digital instrument cluster in addition to an 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. As expected, there are five AMG display design motifs and such menu items as AMG Performance and AMG Track Pace.
The AMG GT43 coupe’s standard AMG sport seats are covered in Nappa leather. If you prefer integrated headrests and/or increased lateral support, AMG performance seats are optional. Interior trim consists of the usual suspects finsihed in high-gloss black, aluminum, carbon fiber, dark chrome, grey open-pore birch wood and brown open-pore ash ship deck wood with aluminum inlays. You can also opt for an AMG heated steering wheel with Nappa leather, Nappa leather and microfiber or carbon design and microfiber.
All models will be 2+2s, but at least the rear seat folds down.
While the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT55 and GT63 are due sometime this spring, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT43 is due later in the year.
Pricing hasn’t been announced, but it should come in somewhere south of the GT55’s $136,050 starting price.
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