Mercedes-AMG has been spied testing a tamer-looking plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of its next-generation GT two-door coupe ahead of a potential reveal later in 2022 or early in 2023.
This PHEV version of the GT two-door coupe is expected to slot beneath the hotter so-called GT 63 S E Performance, which was spied in convoy with this prototype, and potentially be called the GT 53 S E Performance.
A range of mild-hybrid variants are expected too, as there has been a range of non-PHEV AMG GT prototypes previously spied.
The only visual difference this particular GT 53 S E Performance prototype has in comparison to the hotter model are the circular, quad exhaust outlets instead of squared-off units.
In current Mercedes-AMG design language, circular tail pipes are typically a visual indicator of a less-powerful variant.
This prototype is clearly still a PHEV though as it has a charging flap on the right-hand side of the rear bumper.
Power is expected to come from a version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder PHEV powertrain first seen in the recently-revealed C63 S E Performance.
In the four-door sedan this powertrain produces total system outputs of up to 500kW of power and 1020Nm of torque. Expect a little less from the tamer GT 53 S E Performance.
The next-generation version of the GT coupe is related to the SL roadster and shares the aluminium composite spaceframe platform, known as Modular Sports Architecture (MSA).
From the front it appears the GT coupe has a lower-set grille than the SL, as well as LED headlights that appear more vertical.
It’s unclear if Mercedes-AMG will remove the two rear seats present in the SL roadster for the GT coupe, as the previous generation was purely a two-seater.
It’s worth noting Mercedes-AMG already has a four-door version of the GT that’s based on the E-Class and is available with a V8 plug-in hybrid drivetrain that produces a mind-boggling 620kW and 1400Nm.
The back seats in the SL only provide space for passengers up to 1.5 metres tall, and are therefore best suited for small children or big bags.
Removing the two rear seats for the GT coupe could allow Mercedes-AMG to strengthen and stiffen the aluminium MSA platform for a more track-focused set-up.
We’re yet to see the interior of the upcoming GT coupe, but expect it to have a similar layout as the SL roadster.
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