2018 LA Auto Show: Track-focused Mercedes-AMG GT R Pro Unveiled

Lightweight construction, improved suspension and tweaked aerodynamics is all its takes to make the AMG GT R Pro around 7 sec quicker than the AMG GT R.

Mercedes-AMG showcased the refreshed AMG GT at the 2018 LA Auto Show. But, all eyes were on the track-focused AMG GT R Pro. They say, it is closer to motor racing than any model before including the AMG GT R. In developing the GT R Pro, Mercedes utilized lessons learned from AMG GT3 and GT4 racing cars. It stands out from other AMG GTs in four main areas: suspension, lightweight construction, aerodynamics and appearance.

The AMG GT R Pro comes fitted with coil-over suspension that offers a custom set-up for the driver. The driver will not only be able to set the spring preload length mechanically, but can also adjust the compression and rebound characteristics. This is done via a click system with a dedicated adjustment dial on the damper. The front axle is fitted with an adjustable torsion bar made of carbon fiber and features a hollow tube design. Additionally, the AMG GT R Pro comes outfitted with uniball spherical bearings not just on the rear lower wishbones like the AMG GT R but also on the upper wishbones as well. A carbon fiber shear panel on the underbody promises to improve rigidity and add stability.

In addition to a host of carbon-fiber components, the ceramic composite high-performance braking system is now standard. The brake calipers are painted black with white lettering and the twin 5-spoke forged wheels are painted titanium gray.

The active aerodynamics profile on the underbody, AIRPANEL active air regulation system in the front apron and the large spoiler on the hatch are all adopted from AMG GT R and come as standard. Further aerodynamic improvements are made through a redesigned front apron which is fitted with two flics made of clear-coated carbon fiber at the sides. In addition, the rear spoiler is fitted with a spoiler lip, which increases downforce at the rear axle, and now sits on milled aluminum brackets.

The exterior of the GT R Pro has been inspired from motor racing as well. The front splitter, fins on the fenders, trim strips on the side sills, side mirrors, rear spoiler and a diffuser come standard. These get a clear carbon-fiber finish like in racing cars, as does the redesigned carbon-fiber roof. The proximity to motorsport is also underscored by the racing stripes. The stripes are light green if you choose the Selenite Gray Magno paint finish. For all other color variants, the stripes come in a Dark Gray Matte. Customers can also choose to omit the stripes.

Finally, the powertrain on the AMG GT R Pro is identical to the GT R’s twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine. It develops 577 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque between 1900 rpm and 5500 rpm. Even before its world premiere, the AMG GT R Pro demonstrated its performance potential on the racetrack by completing a lap around the Nurburgring in 7 min 04.632 sec with AMG GT3 racing driver Maro Engel behind the wheel. This is considerably faster than the AMG GT R’s 7 min 10.92 sec lap.