The 2021 AMG GT 4-Door Coupe is now the entry level for the Mercedes-Benz enthusiast oriented performance brand. Our AMG GT43 is of this line, the least expensive starting at $89,900 and as tested rang in at $107,995. The Germans stack it on you with options.
The AMG GT 4-Door Coupe is about the same size as a Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan nearly identical in wheelbase and just a few inches longer with overhangs. It has a sloped roofline that extends to the rear flank and a power hatch.
Styling up front is decidedly AMG with a forward sloping silhouette. Fully outfitted it has LED headlamps and taillights, a big quad exhaust optional and large 21-inch wheels with 275 front and 315 rear rubber – also optional.
Standard is the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine mated to an AMG Speedshift 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive. It also features the EQ Boost mild hybrid system which is a 21 horsepower electric motor-generator sandwiched between the engine and transmission.
It works exceptionally well and pleases for a base powertrain with 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The manufacturer states a 4.8-second 0-60 acceleration time which feels about right. The sound this engine makes however is really the prize. It has a soulful and rich note that begs you to play with it incessantly, paddle shifters, exhaust system set to sport. Decadent.
If you want more power you can step up to the GT53 which features a more powerful version of the inline six. Also available is the GT63 with a turbocharged V8 and over 600 horsepower at the top. As tested though we were happy and the fuel efficiency is not bad at 20 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined – exactly what we achieved.
Handling is served up with grace with a multi-link front and rear suspension and the AMG ride control adjustable and variable dampers. Set with the drive mode selector you can put it where you like it and roll.
With the big rubber on our tester it was grippy as can be with a level of sharpness and crisp precision that rarely comes without a buck-board ride. This car feels every bit worth its price when it comes to a blast on a back road or around town.
Behind the wheel you are treated to one of the best trimmed and crafted interiors money can buy. Outfitted with beautiful open pore ash wood with autumn brown and black Nappa leather it was decadently delicious.
Seating was heated and ventilated, comfortable and very supportive. Controls and switchgear are tops and the infotainment system pleased with all of its features and conveniences. Graphics from its dual screen dash are crisp and pleasing to look at, packing more information than you could ask for.
Comparable to a Porsche Panamera or Audi A7/S7 we were very impressed with the AMG GT43 such that it makes it to our Id Buy It list for 2021. Definitely worth a hard look and a hard drive before you buy elsewhere.
