MERCEDES-AMG GT 4-DOOR COUPE
Redefining Performance
Images © MERCEDES-BENZ
Mercedes-AMG has unleashed the latest GT 4-Door Coupé as a fully electric hyper-performance sports car, delivering extreme power and highly precise driving dynamics to catapult performance and driving pleasure to a new level, while underscoring the pioneering spirit of Affalterbach with numerous world firsts. Based on the AMG.EA architecture, the new 4-Door Coupé introduces an entirely new high-performance drive concept for a production EV, centred around innovative axial-flux motors paired with a high-performance battery.
UNBELIEVABLE PERFORMANCE
Utilising three electric motors, two at the rear and one at the front, the GT 4-Door Coupé delivers a combined output of up to 860 kW. Coupled with a high-performance battery designed for repeated high-output performance, the result is astonishing acceleration figures by any measure. Mercedes-AMG claims a zero to 100 km/h sprint in just 2.1 seconds, while 200 km/h arrives in only 6.4 seconds. Top speed is rated at 300 km/h with the optional Driver’s Package.
In an interesting nod to AMG tradition, the company has programmed a simulated V8 soundtrack into the car. Available in AMGFORCE S+ mode, the system combines sound with haptic feedback and simulated gearshift interruptions to recreate the feel of a high-powered combustion-engined AMG. According to the brand, the experience has been designed to feel and sound remarkably authentic.
The charging capabilities are equally impressive. Mercedes-AMG says the GT 4-Door Coupé supports charging speeds of up to 600 kW, allowing more than 460 kilometres of range to be added in only 10 minutes. A typical 10%-80% charging session takes about 11 minutes.
AERODYNAMIC STYLING
The styling of the new GT 4-Door Coupé may divide opinion, but there is no denying its dramatic presence. The fastback silhouette has been designed with aerodynamic efficiency in mind, while the car sits 4 cm lower than its predecessor despite housing a large battery pack beneath the floor.
At the front, an AMG-specific grille can be optionally illuminated, while star-shaped daytime running lights create a distinctive light signature. Large wheels and a long wheelbase emphasise the car’s proportions, while six circular turbine-inspired taillights with star graphics give the rear end a unique identity.
Aerodynamics play a significant role in the GT’s performance credentials. An active rear diffuser works together with two active aerodynamic elements integrated into the underbody, using the Venturi effect to increase downforce and improve airflow management at speed.
INTELLIGENT POWERTRAIN
The GT 4-Door Coupé’s powertrain and driving dynamics systems are managed by AMG RACE ENGINEER technology. This consists of a high-performance central computer controlling the drive and dynamics systems, as well as a dedicated control unit allowing detailed adjustment of the car’s behaviour. Three rotary controllers mounted in the centre console allow drivers to individually alter response behaviour, cornering characteristics and traction control settings.
Standard equipment includes AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL air suspension with semi-active roll stabilisation. At the same time, multi-link front and rear axles work together with active rear-axle steering to maximise agility and stability. Seven AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programmes are available. The AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system continuously varies torque distribution between the axles, while braking is handled by a high-performance hydraulic composite system featuring carbon-ceramic brakes at the front and steel brakes at the rear.
Inside, the driver-focused cabin features a low seating position and a large display unit integrating a 10.2″ instrument cluster with a 14.0″ multimedia screen. Round air vents with illuminated chain-link detailing add visual drama, while AMG-specific MBUX displays and applications reinforce the car’s performance focus.
Initially, buyers will have a choice between two derivatives. The flagship Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4-Door Coupé produces up to 860 kW, while the GT 55 4-Door Coupé 4MATIC+ delivers 600 kW. Local availability is expected from next year.
MITSUBISHI TRITON
Bi-Turbo Triton coming soon
Image © MITSUBISHI
Mitsubishi Motors South Africa looks set to launch an updated Triton range soon, expanded with the addition of an exciting Triton Bi-Turbo derivative and a Triton GLS with dark treatment.
To bring the Triton range in line with the latest power upgrades offered by other bakkie makers, the Triton Bi-Turbo has been treated to a significant power upgrade, thanks to fine-tuning of the 2.4-litre 4N16 DI-DC engine and its variable-geometry turbo.
This has resulted in impressive performance gains, including enhanced power and torque outputs of 150 kW at 3,500 rpm and 470 Nm between 1,500 and 2,750 rpm. The more powerful engine is mated to the six-speed automatic transmission, and this model will be available exclusively as a 4×4 derivative. Additional standard features fitted to the Triton Bi-Turbo include roof rails, a styling bar, an assisted rear tailgate and heated door mirrors.
We had a very brief introduction to the new Bi-Turbo with the launch of the Destinator, and first impressions indicated this power boost is really what the Triton needed all along. The newfound power is delivered smoothly and continuously, adding just that extra little gusto to the refined Mitsubishi powertrain.
The fitment of the Mitsubishi Motors Safety sensing suite to the Bi-Turbo encompasses a long list of driver assistance, include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Automatic High beam (AHB), Forward Collision Mitigation system (FCM) with pedestrian detection, Lane Change Assist (LCA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), parking sensors (front and rear) and a Multi-Around Monitor.
In line with the upgrade, the Triton GLS has received some exterior enhancements, with the fog lamp bezels, door handles, side-step, and rear gate handle and garnish now finished in matt black. The front bumper, rear bumper, door mirrors and 18-inch alloy wheels now feature a metallic black look. The inner housing of the rear combination lamp has also been blacked out. Full specifications and additional details will be shared closer to its launch date.
FORD RANGER SUPER DUTY
Super Ranger Reporting for Duty
Image © FORD
At the recent 2026 Nampo Show in Bothaville, Ford Southern Africa announced that the Ford Ranger Super Duty will arrive in South Africa in 2027. Born from direct collaboration with customers, the Ranger Super Duty is a new, bigger bakkie set to deliver next-level, work-ready capability and redefine what’s possible in the already hard-working bakkie segment.
This new model, with definite F150 traits, was developed by Ford’s International Markets Group Product Development team, led by a 1,500-strong group of designers, engineers and specialists. It has been engineered and designed to deliver enhanced towing, carrying, and off-road capabilities required by those who need them to provide more functionality on demand, including emergency service operators, farmers, utilities and forestry workers, miners, infrastructure technicians, and many more.
It blends the features and advanced safety of the South African Car of the Year award-winning Ranger with heavy-duty capability, backed up with the confidence of a factory-backed warranty. Neale Hill, President of Africa Operations for Ford, says the introduction of the Super Duty model will be a first of its kind in South Africa, and aligns with Ford’s vision to match superior product capability directly with customer needs.
For the adventure enthusiast, the Ranger Super Duty will serve as the ultimate overlanding platform, providing the heavy-duty backbone needed to traverse extreme terrains and tow large caravans to the most remote corners of the continent. The Ranger Super Duty is planned to be offered in double-cab and single-cab configurations.
Hill also said Ford will work closely with customers across various sectors, as well as vehicle modifiers, through the Ford Pro Convertor programme to ensure the Ranger Super Duty is configured for the on-the-ground needs of South African consumers.
The Ford Pro Convertor program is designed to enhance the level of support provided to Ford customers seeking specialised vehicle customisation to make their vehicle ready for work or recreation. All Ford Pro Convertors undergo a comprehensive assessment by Ford to ensure the quality of their production and installation methods align with the manufacturer’s quality standards.
Report by FERDI DE VOS
