What's the news?
Mercedes-Benz has added a new GT variant to the SLS AMG line-up in both Coupé and Roadster body styles. Described as a 'highly emotional, performance oriented' model the GT means there are now five vehicles in the SLS range.
Exterior
Forged AMG alloy wheels with a 'high sheen' matt black finish are fitted. Other details are picked out in high-gloss black including the star recess in the radiator grille, the wing mirrors and the fins on the bonnet and wings. The head- and tail lamps have a darkened finish while red brake callipers add a touch of colour.
Interior
The interior is said by Mercedes to combine a high quality ambience with the functional atmosphere of a racing car. Continuing the design theme of darkened details black trim is used on the dashboard, door panels and instrument dials. Sports seats feature contrasting stitching and an embossed logo on the head restraints. Alcantara is used on the seat and door centre panels.
As an option customers can specify 'AMG designo Exclusive STYLE' leather in either single- or two-tone colours. This is stitched in a diamond pattern and is used to finish both the sports seats and door panels.
Mechanicals
No change in the basic SLS recipe of front-mid-ship V8 engine and rear-mounted seven-speed transmission. Power is quoted as 591hp at 6,800rpm and torque is 650Nm at 4,750rpm. Mercedes AMG claims that the SLS GT will do 0-62mph in 3.7 seconds and is limited to 198mph.
The transmission has been reprogrammed to give more responsive changes in manual mode. Reaction times have been cut and the GT also gets a more pronounced double declutching function when changing down through the gears.
New AMG Ride Control performance suspension is also fitted. This dispenses with the 'Comfort' setting for a firmer overall set-up. For road use Sport is the recommended setting while Sport plus is intended for smoother surfaces.
Anything else?
The German price for the SLS GT works out at £166,150 for the Coupé although the official UK price is likely to be slightly higher.
John Lambert - 17 Oct 2012
