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| Mercedes AMG GT SUV |
Mercedes-AMG has officially unveiled its first fully in-house developed electric SUV, and while the performance figures are nothing short of spectacular, a rather unusual pricing decision has raised eyebrows across the automotive world: customers who want their silent EV to roar like a V8 will have to pay extra for the privilege.
The all-new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV, built on the groundbreaking AMG.EA platform, arrives with three variants—the GT 53, GT 55, and GT 63. However, according to reports from Notebookcheck, only the more expensive GT 55 and GT 63 trims come equipped with the simulated V8 engine soundtrack. The entry-level GT 53 makes do with a faux six-cylinder rumble.
The Sound of Status
Mercedes has gone to considerable lengths to authenticate these digital engine notes. The AMGFORCE Sport+ driving programme, which pipes simulated engine sounds through the speakers, was developed using over 100 measurements captured with 16 microphones from reference vehicles including the legendary Mercedes-AMG GT R. The result is a dynamic audio experience that adapts in real time to acceleration, gear changes, and driving style, complete with seat shakers and a customised driver display.
According to Mercedes-Benz's official press release, the system "faithfully reproduces the sound of AMG V8 engines" in the higher trims while the GT 53 receives "a characterful AMG six-cylinder" soundtrack. The company describes the experience as "a genuine AMG feeling with the potential to give you goosebumps."
Yet, as The Drive points out, the decision to lock the V8 sound behind a paywall feels somewhat stingy. After all, it's just software—it costs Mercedes virtually nothing to give the GT 53 the same audio treatment. Instead, the company has turned a digital sound file into a quirky status symbol.
Performance That Speaks for Itself
Beyond the audio controversy, the AMG GT SUV represents a significant milestone for Mercedes-AMG. It's the first full-size SUV developed entirely in-house in the division's 59-year history, and the specs are genuinely impressive.
The range-topping GT 63 delivers a staggering 860 kW (1,169 hp) and 2,000 Nm of torque via three axial flux motors, launching from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds (or 2.5 seconds with the one-foot rollout measurement). The GT 55 produces 600 kW (816 hp) and completes the same sprint in 3.1 seconds. Even the "entry-level" GT 53, with its two synchronous motors, generates 400 kW (544 hp) and reaches 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds.
Two 800-volt battery options are available—106 kWh and 128 kWh—supporting DC charging at up to 600 kW and 710 kW respectively. Mercedes claims up to 700 km of WLTP range with the larger pack, with up to 450 km added in just ten minutes of charging.
Pricing and Availability
The Mercedes-AMG GT 53 SUV starts at €113,050 and is available to order now. The GT 55 and GT 63 variants will arrive in spring 2027, with pricing yet to be announced. Those wanting the full V8 audio experience will need to opt for one of the pricier models—or simply accept that their six-figure electric SUV sounds like a six-cylinder rather than an eight.
The new AMG GT SUV will be manufactured at Mercedes-Benz's historic Sindelfingen plant, which has been specially retrofitted to accommodate the AMG.EA platform's advanced technology. With its combination of Formula 1-derived battery technology, active aerodynamics, and cutting-edge suspension systems, the vehicle represents a bold statement about the future of electric performance.
Whether customers will embrace paying extra for engine sounds in an era of silent motoring remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Mercedes-AMG knows how to create a conversation.
For more information on the new Mercedes-AMG GT SUV, visit the official Mercedes-Benz Media page.
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| Mercedes brings V8 sounds to its electric AMG line. |
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| Fake V8 or V6 sounds come with the push of a button. |