The AMG GT Coupe has grown into a 2+2 grand tourer, mimicking its Porsche 911 counterpart, but so far we’ve only seen the V8-powered GT 63 entry. Now rounding out the bottom of the ladder is a new base model, the GT 43, complete with a four-cylinder engine derived with Formula 1 technology, rear-wheel drive instead of AWD, standard steel springs, active air panels in the front apron, and a lighter curb weight than the V8 (actual weight figure TBA), which should make it a purer driver’s car – we hope.

We’ve tested this engine before in the C 43 Sedan. It’s also the same unit found in the SL 43 Roadster and Lotus Emira (in a transverse configuration). The 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder utilizes an electric exhaust-gas turbocharger, whereby a small electric motor spins up the turbo before the exhaust gases flow in, eliminating turbo lag and improving power delivery. It’s paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system consisting of a starter-generator that handles the car’s auxiliaries and delivers a brief burst of horsepower at low RPMs.

As a result, the GT 43 generates 416 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, which is 14 hp more than in the C 43, but they accelerate from 0-100 km/h at the same speed, in 4.6 seconds. Running the show is the same 9-speed multi-clutch transmission that utilizes a wet clutch instead of a torque converter, which carries the advantage of being lighter and more compact, but we never found them as polished or as obedient as the 8-speed automatics in rivaling sports cars like the BMW M8.

The GT 43 stands out from the rest of the pack with a softer front end and narrower front and rear fenders. As with all -43 models, rounded quad exhaust tips are found out back. Overall, the GT 43 appears softer and less muscular but we think this streamlined silhouette is much more attractive and less visually shouty.

No word on Canadian pricing or market launch date but we expect the 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT 43 Coupe to cost $150,000, about in line with a Porsche 911 Carrera S ($150,100). We also predict a slew of extra options for a pretty penny like rear axle steering, larger 21-inch wheels, 2+2 seat layout, and an adaptive suspension.

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