THE wildest iteration yet of the most track-focused car in the Mercedes-AMG range will soon be available in Australia, with a strictly limited number of the Mercedes-AMG GT R PRO to be offered via local AMG Performance Centres.
Just 15 of the final examples are set to arrive as the global production run of 750 units is completed. Each Mercedes-AMG GT R PRO adds performance enhancing, weight-optimised and eye-catching features to the acclaimed Mercedes-AMG GT R Coupé.
That’s the vehicle chosen to marshal the Formula 1 field as the official Safety Car for the world’s most high-tech racing category, in case you’re wondering.
The addition of a range of motor sport-inspired features positions the GT R PRO as the ultimate track day racer of the Mercedes-AMG range, whilst still being able to be driven every day on the road.
In the sternest challenge of road car prowess – a lap of the fearsome Nürburgring ‘Nordschleife’ in Germany – the GT R PRO has lapped the 20.6 km circuit in just 7 min 04.632 sec, more than six seconds quicker than the GT R on which it is based.
“Australians continue to show their affection for Mercedes-AMG, with an appreciation of the way each vehicle looks and performs and also of the brand’s motor sport heritage,” Horst von Sanden, Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific CEO and Managing Director, said.
“We are very pleased to have secured a limited quantity of the AMG GT R PRO for our Australian customers who want to take the already impressive AMG GT R to the next level in performance.”
The GT R PRO scores a new AMG coil-over suspension system for more adjustability, and to tailor set-ups to a particular circuit. The driver is not only able to set the spring pre-load length mechanically, but can also adjust the damper compression and rebound.
This is done quickly and precisely without tools, via a click system with an integral adjustment dial on the damper. This means that the settings can be dialled-in for slow and fast compression movements, as is common practice in motor sport.
The front axle is fitted with an adjustable torsion bar made of lightweight carbon-fibre as well. Its steel counterpart at the rear is likewise adjustable, and also saves weight due to its hollow tube design.
A carbon-fibre shear panel in the under body of the rear end also contributes to handling precision. Lightweight and rigid, it stiffens the rear-end structure to add even more stability to the body shell.
Electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts from the GT R have been re-tuned to further increase agility and deliver high-precision response and clear feedback.
The Mercedes-AMG GT R PRO also includes the Track Package, comprising a bolted steel roll cage and two rear braces and four-point safety harnesses for driver and front passenger (in addition to three-point seatbelts required for road compliance).
The system further improves the already excellent vehicle rigidity, with a positive influence on driving dynamics. The extensive use of lightweight carbon-fibre components also features.
The package is supplemented by lightweight, fade-resistant ceramic high-performance compound brakes, plus AMG bucket seats made of clear-coated carbon fibre, and lightweight 20-inch AMG Performance 5-double-spoke forged wheels.
A standard-fit Carbon Package includes the front splitter, fins in the wings, trim strips in the side sills and a diffuser with high-quality clear-coated carbon-fibre finish, plus a carbon-fibre roof with lowered centre redesigned for helmet clearance.
In addition, the GT R PRO features carbon-fibre side mirrors, rear wing, door trims, door sills and centre console trim. There’s also a redesigned front apron. It all leads to an aerodynamically enhanced performance package
Louvres in the front wings effectively vent the wheel arches, and consequently contribute to reducing front-axle lift. At the rear, a clear-coated carbon-fibre aero element at the wheel arch on either side rises up vertically almost to the level of the tail lights.
The AMG GT R PRO packs a biturbo 4.0-litre V8 engine sending 430kW and 700Nm to the rear wheels via an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G seven-speed transaxle. The sprint from 0 to 100km/h is clocked at just 3.6 seconds.
In addition to the significant addition of carbon-fibre exterior trim elements, the special status of the GT R PRO is underscored by racing stripes running over the bonnet and roof, as well as along the sides of the vehicle.
One eye-catching combination is matt designo Selenite Grey magno paint finished with light green wrap; all other colour variants are matched with stripes in matt dark grey.
The GT R PRO also features Nappa Leather/DINAMICA® upholstery, privacy glass for the rear windows, designo seatbelts in silver finish, a retractable cargo area cover and an AMG indoor car cover.
The new Mercedes-AMG GT R PRO is priced at $453,200 plus on-road costs, and is available to order now from AMG Performance Centres. First deliveries are expected in September.
