[Taboleo] The Beast Returns After 10 Years... 'Mercedes-AMG GT 55'

4.0L V8 Biturbo Engine... Maximum Output of 476 Horsepower
Accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in Just 3.9 Seconds
Exceptional Grip and Stable Cornering

'The beast has returned after 10 years. Now dressed in a sharp suit.'

The high-performance two-door coupe, the Mercedes-AMG GT, has made its comeback after 10 years with the launch of its fully redesigned second-generation model, the Mercedes-AMG GT 55 4Matics+ (AMG GT 55).

Mercedes-AMG GT 55 4Matics+. Mercedes-Benz Korea

On May 29, at AMG Speedway in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, I had the chance to experience the AMG GT 55 on the circuit track. In short, it can be described as an authentic sports car that combines a dynamic exterior with powerful performance, while also offering a comfortable ride that rivals that of a sedan.

The first impression is that of a classic, sleek coupe with no rough edges. The large Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star emblem sits between the sharp headlights above the front bumper.

After passing the long hood and opening the door to sit inside, the seat firmly holds your body. The firm, racing-style seat immediately conveys the character of the AMG GT 55.

The seating position is 7cm higher than in the previous generation, providing a wider forward view. At the center of the dashboard, an 11.9-inch touchscreen display is installed, allowing intuitive and convenient control of various settings even while driving.

Mercedes-AMG GT 55 4Matics+. Mercedes-Benz Korea

One common drawback of two-door coupes is the discomfort of the rear seats, as the interior space is inevitably limited.

The AMG GT 55 addresses this with '2+2' seating, enhancing practicality. When needed, folding down the rear seats expands the trunk capacity to a maximum of 675 liters. This is twice as large as the first-generation GT, making it spacious enough to easily fit two golf bags.

When you start the engine and shift into drive (D), the car reveals a different side. The sound and vibration from the 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, built under AMG's 'One Man, One Engine' philosophy?where a single master craftsman assembles each engine from start to finish?seem to declare, 'I am a sports car.'

With a maximum output of 476 horsepower and peak torque of 71.4 kgf·m, the car can accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.

Mercedes-AMG GT 55 4Matics+. Mercedes-Benz Korea

As soon as I pressed the accelerator, the car immediately surged forward. Following an expert's instructions, I drove my first lap of the circuit in Comfort mode, but there was no lack of acceleration whatsoever. On the straight, pressing the pedal firmly sent the speed soaring well past 150 km/h in the blink of an eye.

While the first generation was based on rear-wheel drive, the second generation can fully and variably distribute torque between the front and rear axles depending on the situation. This enables optimal traction, stability, and agile handling on various road surfaces.

Additionally, the electronically controlled hydraulic roll stabilization, managed via hydraulic lines, allows for more precise control of body roll when cornering, helping the vehicle maintain a stable, level posture even at high speeds.

The AMG GT 55 incorporates a variety of aerodynamic technologies derived from motorsports, which increase the car's grip on the road. This strong road-holding enables precise steering and stable cornering. A key feature is the variable rear spoiler, which can be adjusted in five stages depending on driving conditions.

Mercedes-AMG GT 55 4Matics+ engine view. Photo by Oh Hyungil

After completing a lap of the 4-kilometer track in an instant, I switched to Sport Plus mode, and the engine sound became noticeably rougher. The acceleration response increased to the point where my body was jolted. Even when taking sharp corners at speeds over 80 km/h, there was no sense of instability or body shake.

Although my time on the track was brief, the AMG GT 55 left a strong impression. Its price is 205.6 million won. As a man in his 40s who usually drives a family car at moderate speeds for his family, it is clearly not an easily accessible car. However, for driving enthusiasts, it is an attractive option, as it combines the smooth ride and luxury of a sedan with the high performance of a sports car.