2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Review

The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT is a class-leading exotic coupe. It's luxurious, extremely fast and stylish to boot. So what do you do if you're Mercedes and you're updating the AMG GT? Leave it mostly alone. The new 2020 AMG GT, unveiled at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show, features some interior updates, but the powertrain and impeccable styling remain the same. And to spice things up a bit, Mercedes has added a hardcore AMG GT R Pro, a limited-edition racetrack-inspired trim level, to the lineup.

What's Different for 2020?

Mercedes outfits the 2020 AMG GT with its new 12.3-inch infotainment display, along with a new center console, steering wheel and multimedia driver display. The driver display replaces the current model's physical speedometer and tachometer gauges with a digital screen that can be programmed by the driver. The displays are crisp and clear, and although some drivers may malign the loss of analog gauges, we think the upgrade in customization will help turn purists into converts.

The new center console employs Mercedes' latest touchpad layout, a system we've experienced in the Mercedes A-Class, and it's one we're happy is making its way up the lineup. It offers audio and haptic feedback to guide you through the easy-to-use features.

Alongside the center touchpad is a series of rectangular buttons that are a bit more flush-mounted than the old circular buttons, which were angled up toward the driver. This new design is a bit simpler and more elegant, with less to distract the driver while the car is on the road. The new steering wheel is borrowed from the AMG GT four-door coupe. It's a flat-bottom design with the latest Mercedes button layout, which is also easy to learn and operate.

Joining the standard AMG GT lineup is the 2020 Mercedes AMG GT R Pro. The R Pro is basically a top-tier trim level of the two-door sports car, with an updated suspension, additional carbon-fiber bits (both inside and out), unique interior and exterior aesthetics, and a few minor aerodynamic tweaks. Upgrades to the R Pro's suspension include a carbon-fiber torsion bar (replacing the standard steel one), adjustable coilovers, upgraded suspension bushings and standard carbon-ceramic brakes.

All AMG GT sports cars are powered by the same turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, with different power ratings depending on the trim. The new GT R Pro squeezes the same 577 horsepower out of that engine as last year's GT R, along with 516 pound-feet of torque. So, the AMG GT R Pro doesn't get any more power, but it does receive a bit more downforce thanks to an updated front spoiler and fender vents.

How Much Will It Cost?

The standard AMG GT starts at $112,000 (MSRP) while the AMG GT R lists at $157,000. And that's before you add any of the myriad available options. We expect the limited-production GT R Pro to inch much closer to $200,000 when it goes on sale next year.

What Does the AMG GT Compete Against?

If you're looking for ultimate sports-car performance paired with a luxury experience, you've got plenty to choose from these days. Exotics such as the Audi R8 and the Acura NSX provide similar performance to the AMG GT, along with prestige. Depending on the trim level, the Porsche 911 and the Jaguar F-Type serve as viable competitors as well. The 911 is still one of the best driver's cars on the road, providing class-leading dynamics along with high-end interior touches and impeccable construction, while the Jaguar F-Type is aesthetically pleasing and available with a screaming supercharged V8.

Should I Buy One?

In the face of seriously tough competition, the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT is currently Edmunds' top-ranked exotic sport coupe. We found it comfortable, and its performance in both everyday driving and enthusiastic weekend jaunts was excellent. We haven't driven the reworked AMG GT yet, but we're confident that it'll remain at the top of the sports-car heap. If you've got the means to purchase a 2020 Mercedes-AMG GT, whether it's the standard model or the R Pro, we definitely recommend you take one for a test drive.