A Mercedes-AMG GT C coupé has been spotted undisguised three months before the model's anticipated world debut.
The GT C coupé follows the GT C roadster and will use the same 549bhp twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine to sit between the GT S and GT R models.
Along with its more potent engine, which produces 47bhp more than the AMG GT S, the GT C gains altered gear ratios for its seven-speed Speedshift dual clutch transaxles. The GT C's transaxle also has a higher first and lower seventh gear, as well as a lower final drive than the regular GT Coupé.
Also added to the GT C is the active air management system that was first seen on the hardcore GT R. It uses a series of vertical louvres within the grille, which automatically open and close depending on the temperature of the engine to either enhance cooling or smooth airflow.
The GT C coupé is likely to be slightly faster than the roadster due to a lighter kerbweight, meaning it should accelerate from 0-62mph in under 3.7sec and top out at more than 196mph.
As shown by the photographed car, the GT C coupé will wear more aggressive bodywork and swelled rear arches, like its roadster sibling. The photographed car is an Edition 50 model, which will be launched to celebrate AMG's 50th year and come with extra standard kit and bespoke trim.
Pricing for the GT C coupé will slightly undercut that of the GT C roadster, which starts at £138,565 (£3800 less than the GT R costs).
An inside source told Autocar that the GT C coupé was likely to arrive after a refreshed GT range, which is due to be shown at the Detroit motor show in January. The Geneva motor show in March, therefore, stands out as the most probable venue.
Later on, the GT range is set to expand further with a range-topping Black Series model. Confirmed by AMG boss Tobias Moers back in September, the car could produce in excess of 600bhp.
Mercedes is understood to be undecided as to whether it'll produce a roadster version of its GT R.
