Provoke the GT S into a drift by turning off the electronic safety net, and it’s wonderfully progressive and fabulously engaging. The most impressive aspect, though, is the overall cohesion evident throughout the new car. The SLS was already a terrifically well balanced car with sufficient performance to unlock its potential. The GT S ups the ante by several steps. Subjectively, it feels quicker point-to-point yet more civilised over any road, its dynamic properties are sharper while the ride is more refined, and it is also better to listen to at full chat in Sport Plus or Race modes but less intrusive ambling along on part throttle loads in Controlled Efficiency mode. Coupled with the compelling ride quality, it all makes for a formidable grand tourer.
Hauling the GT S down the road proves no great drama, at least not with the optional carbon-ceramic discs fitted to our test car. An impressive 402mm in diameter at the front and 360mm at the rear, they initially lack for bite when driven away cold. But once you’ve worked some heat into them, they provide truly impressive retardation with nary a hint of fade, even after a decent stint on the track.
Should I buy one?
No doubt about it: the Mercedes-AMG GT is a sharper yet more refined prospect than the old SLS. It is a more rewarding car all round, whatever the driving conditions. Be it urban running, motorway cruising, back road running or race track work, it always feels able to operate beyond the already lofty levels of its predecessor. And at a much lower price, too. The only fly in the ointment on Indian roads could be its stiff ride. However, it’s not as stiff as the SLS was.
However, the new Mercedes-AMG model (in GT S form especially) is up against some stiff supercar competition. It’s priced to rival the sublime Porsche 911 Turbo, and it’ll also likely feel the heat from the upcoming second-generation Audi R8, which is due to arrive after the GT S hits Indian showrooms.
What distinguishes the new flagship AMG Merc is the brilliant blend of performance and practicality. It’s a user-friendly sports car that would feel equally happy having a blast on the Buddh circuit or rumbling down Rajpath.