LIFE BEGINS AT 43 (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

Here's a more accessible way to own a Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe. Jonathan Crouch takes a look at the base four cylinder 43 version.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 39

The Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe was originally born as a rear-driven model and returns to that format in this vastly more affordable four cylinder entry-level 43 form. In many ways, this base variant is the definitive version of this car.

Backgroundword count: 175

We've had a second generation Mercedes AMG GT coupe since late 2023. But in the UK, it's since early 2025 that we've had the version of that car that most closely replicates the spirit of the original 2014-era MK1 C190 model; this car, the Mercedes-AMG GT 43. When the second generation C192 model was first launched, Mercedes wanted everyone to know that it could now be had with 4MATIC+ AWD and initially dictated that it could only be ordered in that way with a V8 engine, first in 585hp 63 form, a model subsequently joined by a 476hp 55 variant. But in price, power and drivetrain terms, that took this GT model way away from the Porsche 911 Carrera models that had been the previous C190 design's closest competition. It was a mistake - and severely limited sales. This rear-driven Mercedes-AMG GT 43 model corrects that oversight. It's rear-driven with an engine only four cylinders in size, but it's still super-quick and is vastly less expensive than its 4MATIC+ V8 stablemates. Let's take a look.

Engines and Tech Specword count: 267

Mercedes initially said it wasn't going to bring this four cylinder GT Coupe model to the UK - and that would have been a pity. It is, in Mercedes own words, 'the most agile car in the GT line-up'. That's partly because of lighter weight (1,974kg as opposed to the 2,121kg of the GT 55 or 63). And partly because of more even weight distribution. The engine is the mild hybrid 2.0-litre turbo four cylinder unit used by the Mercedes-AMG A 45 super hot hatch, which puts out 421hp. Compare with 476hp for the GT 55 and 585hp for the GT 63. 0-62mph takes 4.6s (only 1.4s lower than the GT 63). All that power here goes to the rear wheels rather than, as with the bigger-engined models, to all four. There's the same AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed sport automatic transmission. Rear wheel steering (now standard on a rival Porsche 911 Carrera) is not part of the standard spec. There's an AMG Dynamic Select controller providing a choice of different drive modes - 'Slippery', 'Comfort', 'Sport' and 'Sport+'. Add the optional AMG Dynamic Plus package and you get an extra 'RACE' setting. And the driver can alter the AMG Dynamics ESC stability system in three steps. The aluminium double-wishbone AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension is the same set-up as with more powerful models. It uses constantly variable electronic damping, coil springs and active roll stabilisation to suppress body roll. That's further aided by substantial engine bay bracing and a stiffer Modular Sport Architecture platform, a lightweight spaceframe-style structure using a combination of magnesium, steel, aluminium and plastic composites.

To see the full road test text contact us on 0330 0020 227