What is it? Expanding on Mercedes’ performance division, the Mercedes AMG-GT Concept is the sedan version of its gorgeous GT Coupe and GT Roadster. But unlike the gasoline-powered GT cars, this one is a hybrid using technology gleaned from Mercedes F1 cars. The concept Grand Tourer is a four-door aimed at blunting enthusiasm for the Porsche Panamera Sportback or Audi RS 7.
Why does it matter? The GT Concept unveiled in Geneva shows the potential of hybrid powertrains: Beneath the hood sits a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 paired with two powerful electric motors for a total output of 805 horsepower. That, says Mercedes, would be good to catapult the big car from rest to 100 in under three seconds. The GT Concept can be driven in electric mode only or a combination of the two for maximum power. Sounds ideal.
When will Canada get it? Should Mercedes green-light the car, we could see it as soon as 2020.
Should you buy it? Until now, Mercedes’ performance division didn’t have a sedan to compete with the many other luxury brands bringing powerful, well-designed cars to market. With a hatchback profile and a useable trunk, the super sedan has the design portion perfectly executed, including state-of-the-art side cameras for mirrors. Hurry, Mercedes.
