The Mercedes-AMG GT now has a four-cylinder engine option

Having been on the market for ten years and spanning two generations, most of you will no doubt be familiar with the Mercedes-AMG GT and its thumping V8. However, the German carmaker has now decided to stick its four-cylinder in it and slap on a GT43 badge. Is this blasphemy or genius?

We should note that this is no ordinary four-cylinder, but rather the same turbocharged 2.0-litre unit found in the A 45 hot hatch and C63 S. It’s pretty zesty to say the least, pumping out 310kW and 500Nm of torque.

Helping the motor achieve such an impressive amount of power for its size is a turbocharger spun by an electric motor at low speeds before the exhaust gas kicks in, the same way a Formula 1 power unit works.

In addition, Mercedes has bolted a 48V mild-hybrid system to the motor which helps with efficiency and easing the transition between starting, stopping, and coasting.

Compared to its all-wheel drive V8 sibling, the GT43 ditches power to the front axle for a rear-wheel drive setup, but it still shares the same nine-speed automatic gearbox.

Even though the model has lost four cylinders, weight hasn’t really come down much at 1775kg – only 195kg less than the V8 variant.

The AMG tragics among you will be able to tell the four-pot apart from the V8 thanks to its narrower track width and arches, smaller grille, and a full-width air intake along the lower front bumper.

Both tailpipes on either side are now round instead of trapezoidal, while customers can complete the look of the rear end with an optional fixed rear wing.

A set of 19-inch wheels are equipped as standard, but 20- and 21-inch sets are also available at an additional cost.

Customers can also add the AMG Dynamic Plus package which grants you access to “dynamic” engine mounts, an electronically controlled locking rear differential, ‘Race’ mode, an active aerodynamic element that reduces lift on the front axle, and yellow brake calipers.

Based on overseas reports, it appears Mercedes-AMG is keeping the four-cylinder GT43 close to home, with the model expected to arrive in European showrooms later this year.

It won’t be sold in the United Kingdom or Australia, so a New Zealand launch probably won’t be on the cards either.