Mercedes-AMG GT R road car set for late 2016 debut

Previously believed to be known as the AMG GT3, it looks like Affalterbach’s coming range-topping super car variant will be known as the Mercedes-AMG GT R. Yes, the name’s striking resemblance with a certain Japanese supercar may have Nissan kicking up a bit of a fuss, if not for its alliance with Daimler AG.

A report from Motor Trend claims that a source within AMG’s walls revealed the new name of the road-going model that will sit above the AMG GT S, effectively reserving the GT3 title for the track-only racer.

As spied before on several occasions, the Mercedes-AMG GT R has been seen wearing an extra aggressive exterior body kit which features a sportier front bumper, a large fixed rear wing and an F1-style diffuser amongst other performance-enhancing items. New reports suggest that active aerodynamics will also be involved, along with a four-wheel steering system.

The Motor Trend report also suggested that the AMG GT R will feature an industry-first adjustable spool valve active suspension system. Beefier brakes, larger wheels and a few design tweaks inside the car is also expected along with a weight-loss programme that will see it shed up to 100 kg over the GT S.

For power, the German GT R is said to feature a more potent version of the 4.0 litre V8 biturbo engine currently available in the GT and GT S variants. With the current GT S pushing 510 hp and 650 Nm of torque, reports suggest that the GT R could get up to 600 hp.

Launched in Malaysia in June 2015, the 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 Mercedes-AMG GT S is priced at RM1.125 million. With the GT R, Mercedes-AMG will specifically look to challenge Porsche’s 911 GT3 and the GT3 RS, effectively pushing the GT S’ price point higher up the scale.

GALLERY: Mercedes AMG GT R spyshots