New Mercedes-AMG GT 43 swaps eight cylinders for four

Mercedes-AMG on Tuesday unleashed its new GT 43 that swaps bellowing V8 power for a more compact, lighter and arguably less shouty 2.0l turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

As seen in the German carmaker's A45 S hot-hatchback and, more recently, its SL 43 grand tourer, this powerhouse of a motor delivers 310kW and 500Nm of torque to the rear wheels via a nine-speed automatic wet clutch gearbox. Performance is brisk with a claimed 0-100km/h time of 4.6 seconds and a maximum speed of 280km/h.

Helping regulate boost is F1-derived 48V mild hybrid technology that electronically spins the turbocharger to reduce lag and improve throttle response and lower RPMs. It also enables functions such as coasting and recuperation for greater efficiency. 

As with all variants of this Affalterbach flagship, drivers can expect an engaging driving experience as the GT 43 chassis is underpinned by a multi-link front axle with five links arranged entirely within the rim. A similar five-link design is found at the rear.

While an AMG steel spring suspension system with high-performance aluminium shock absorbers and lightweight coil springs is fitted as standard, adaptive damping AMG Ride Control is available as an option. To reduce unsprung mass, the car's suspension links steering knuckles and wheel carriers are hewn from forged aluminium. Rear axle steering is available as an option as is the AMG Dynamic Plus pack, which bolts in dynamic engine mounts, an electronically controlled locking rear differential, active front aerodynamic element and a Race driving mode said to offer more spontaneous engine response. 

Fomo be damned if you can't afford to tick this box as the GT 43 already features AMG Dynamic Select with five preset drive modes as standard. These are Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual. There's plenty to help you live out your George Russell fantasies.

Recognisable by its newly designed front apron with large air inlets spanning its width, narrower front/rear fenders, reduced track and round instead of trapezoidal double tailpipe trims, the GT 43 rolls on a set of 19-inch light-alloy wheels. Though those seeking a bit more visual punch can opt for 20-inch or even larger 21-inch wheel designs. These shroud a composite brake system with six-piston calipers and perforated 380mm discs up front, while single-piston calipers and 360mm rotors do duty at the rear.

Cabin amenities are lavish with standard niceties including a fully digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch touchscreen on the centre console. The latter runs the firm's latest Mbux infotainment software offering a plethora of functional content including exclusive AMG Performance and Track Pace Apps specifically designed for logging driving data (handy if you're planning on taking part in the odd track day).

Other standard features include supportive Nappa leather seats, gloss black interior trim finishers, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, an ergonomic AMG Performance multifunction steering wheel, adaptive cruise control and steering and lane-keep assist. 

Mercedes-Benz confirmed it has no plans to bring the GT 43 to South Africa.