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