MercedesAMG has caused a stir in the automotive community with the debut of its AMG GT 43. Highly anticipated, many were surprised when it was revealed that the high-end sports car would be driven by a 2.0L turbocharged four-way cassion, a significant departure from previous models.
The announcement really shouldn’t have been much of a shock; AMG’s naming scheme has experienced some alterations over the past few years. For instance, the numbers 55 and 63 denote cars powered by the 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8, while 53 signifies ones with the turbocharged inline-six engine (which may or may not include electric assistance). The figure 43, traditionally associated with a 3.0-liter V6, has now been switched to indicate a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-pot.
This sudden transformation of the AMG GT 43 was somewhat predictable. Since this model shares a platform with the all-new SL – whose 43 version was recently introduced, the precedent had basically been set. MercedesAMG initially stunned the market in 2013 with its A 45 AMG, equipped with a powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Although it delivered some exceptional performance specs (355 horsepower, 332 lb-ft torque), it wasn’t as enjoyable to operate as other AMG products.
The second generation A 45 and CLA 45, introduced in 2020, represented a vast improvement. Enhanced power output (382 hp and 354 lb-ft torque) coupled with the new 4Matic system and an upgraded eight-speed dual-clutch transformed these hyper-hatches into fun-to-drive vehicles.
This leads us to the third evolution of the turbocharged four-pot, installed in the C 43, SL 43, and the new GT 43. It boasts of a mild-hybrid system used mainly for torque filling, and an electric exhaust gas turbocharger, a standout feature which is a direct application of Formula 1 technology.
This hybrid forced induction system, developed by Garrett Motion, is designed to reduce turbo lag by maintaining the turbo impeller’s spin speed even when there isn’t much exhaust gas being produced. Although Garrett may have perfected this feature, they are not the trailblazers. The concept traces its roots back to the 1990s when BorgWarner explored it as a possible solution.
While this is a historical step for MercedesAMG, looking back offers some context. The AMG GT Coupe’s journey traces back to the SLS, created solely by AMG, noted for its remarkable design, thrilling driving experience, and especially its impressive 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine.
So the question now is, will the GT 43 hold its own in a market segment dominated by V8s and V6s? And more importantly, will purists embrace this deviation from tradition?
Source: [Is The Mercedes-AMG GT 43 A Sales Risk Or Marketing Masterstroke?]](https://carbuzz.com/mercedes-amg-gt-43-coupe-risk/).
