OFFICIAL: Mercedes-AMG Prices The All-New GT S — Is It Too HIGH Or Just RIGHT?

A car we've been interested in getting to know more about is the all-new Mercedes-AMG GT. While I've yet to get behind the wheel, the three-pointed star has made it very clear that this won't be like the SLS AMG that was best experienced doing long distance hauls.

The second product developed by AMG from the ground up, the GT is meant to be something different. That's because Mercedes has told us its driving dynamics are dialed up for a more sporting experience.

And it will need to be as it will be going head-to-head with the likes of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Audi R8, Chevrolet Corvette, Jaguar F-Type, Nissan GT-R and Porsche 911 — I don't think I missed anyone.

Today, Mercedes announced pricing for the GT S model, which is the more potent version, starting at $129,900**.

Considering the list of competition I just noted, is this price TOO HIGH or JUST RIGHT?

Keep in mind the standard GT will debut next year with a lower barrier of entry.


**This price excludes title, taxes, fees and destination charge(s).


Mercedes-Benz's press release follows:

Mercedes-Benz Announces Pricing on All-New MY2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S

New Sports Car to Start at $129,900*

January 23, 2015 - MONTVALE, NJ

With the new Mercedes-AMG GT model range, the Mercedes-AMG sports car brand is moving into a new segment. As the second sports car developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG, the GT has everything you would expect from an authentic Mercedes-AMG, from the characteristic styling, thoroughbred motorsport technology to the optimum weight distribution.

Starting at an MSRP of $129,900,* the Mercedes-AMG GT S features a long list of standard features, including Nappa Leather, Keyless-GO, COMAND, Collision Prevention Assist PLUS, Parktronic, 8 Airbags, 19" Front / 20" Rear wheels, AMG Adaptive Suspension, LED Headlamps, Power heated/memory AMG Performance Seats, Rearview Camera, Red Brake Calipers, AMG 3-Stage ESP, and a Burmester Surround Sound System. The GT S is powered by a 4.0 bi-turbo V8 engine that features an output of 503 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, delivering an impressive 0-60 mph time of 3.7 seconds. The U.S. market launch of the GT S is scheduled for April 2015.

The base GT variant goes on sale in the U.S. in Spring 2016 with 456 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque and a 0-60 time of 3.9 seconds. More information on pricing and equipment levels for both the Mercedes-AMG GT S and GT will be available closer to their respective launch dates.

* excluding MY2016 $925 destination/delivery charge

**The 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show photo galleries are sponsored by Lexus.


2014 Los Angeles Auto Show #LAAS

JDMUSMuscle - 1/24/2015 1:41:47 AM

0 Boost

Doesn't really matter. It will sell anyway.

valhallakey - 1/24/2015 4:44:41 AM

0 Boost

It will sell nicely at 129k, but just imagine if they had come in just under 100k, it would have had customers for M4s, Jag F types, even Boxter/Cayman buyers thinking about stretching a bit for this.

MDarringer - 1/24/2015 10:08:33 AM

+1 Boost

This is a real problem for Jaguar. The V8 F Type can easily hit $120K. I think it and the Mercedes are steeply priced given the Corvette Z06.

Agent00R - 1/24/2015 10:20:57 AM

+5 Boost

Very true, but there are Euro snobs out there...

mre30 - 1/24/2015 10:46:16 AM

+1 Boost

The price is perfect. I'll be curious to see what the #1 "conquest" trade-in vehicle is. 911 is the obvious choice - but I suspect that there will be a cannibalization effect with other AMG Mercedes, followed next by BMW "M"'s.

I think a lot of 650i owners will also trade up to this.

Agent00R - 1/24/2015 11:56:22 AM

-1 Boost

Interesting prediction.

Honestly, I can't figure who the conquest will be.

I'd like to say 911 but it such a different vehicle than this. I think this will gobble up any Aston Martin V8 Vantage sales, Audi R8 sales, slow the F-Type's success and maybe nibble at the Corvette's market share. Though with the Z06 I think the power hogs will be RUNNING in that direction only.

mre30 - 1/24/2015 12:34:10 PM

0 Boost

Aston Martin - maybe - but they don't sell so many of those so the number probably wouldn't be meaningful.

Since you mention Aston, Mercedes should consider stretching it 12-16" to the rear and adding vestigial backseats (like the DB9 or the 911) and then selling THAT as the convertible version. Something with backseats about as large (not large per se...but you get the idea) as the old Porsche 928. Could be used as golf club space or, in a pinch, passenger space. The BIGGEST benefit of doing so, is that I think the stretch would really improve the proportions and then the vehicle could go after conquest Bentley GTC cab customers; DB9 customers, and more effectively 911 cabriolet customers.

As both 00R and me cannot figure out who will buy this vehicle as it stands - maybe that's a bad sign (and I own two Mercedes and an Aston). Puzzling to me who will buy this in any numbers.

MDarringer - 1/24/2015 12:37:26 PM

0 Boost

The fact that it has the engine in the right place works for me.

cidflekken - 1/24/2015 5:04:00 PM

+1 Boost

The pricing makes sense and it leaves room for upward movement for future versions, i.e., Black Series, roadster. It also allows it to appeal to buyers in the R8, 911, Aston V8, F-Type segments. Yes, there are Corvettes and GTRs out that cost less and perform better, but they are also fairly commonplace (especially the Vette).

And, for me, personally, I think the interior of the AMG GT looks worlds better than any of the mentioned cars.

Yonder7 - 1/25/2015 6:47:58 AM

+5 Boost

I am an MB fan but not a Badge wore. For that money I prefer a Corvette.

Agent00R - 1/25/2015 11:28:21 AM

0 Boost

If I were making a buying decision in this segment, it would be REALLY hard to turn down the Z06; however, I am sure the differences will be very clear to anyone who gets behind the wheel of both autos.

pmrmd - 1/25/2015 10:12:53 AM

+1 Boost

Audi R8 sales might decrease but the look is so different. Agree 911 is a different animal with its back seats and practicality. I was thinking used Ferrari coupes. Instead of an old 575 or 360/430 or something I could get this car.

Agent00R - 1/25/2015 11:31:57 AM

-2 Boost

R8 sales are pretty limited as is, very niche product in scheme of things. Last I saw the company only moved about 1,000 or so units annually.

Definitely a different look but over time I've realized while it's a stunning vehicle to look at it, the R8 isn't all that much fun to drive. Great daily, just lacking that lust factor for me.

Used Ferrari coupes? Although I have ZERO evidence to support it, I would think anyone looking at a Ferrari has essentially made their decision and will not even bother looking at an all-new AMG. They want that emotional experience and will stomach the risk that comes along with it.

chewy - 1/25/2015 9:39:46 PM

+1 Boost

Not totally sold on the GT yet, it's going to be quick for sure and probably deliver 90% of the SLS performance but it doesn't capture you like a mid engine supercar design. This is based just on seeing it on the auto show circuit but still.