The new Mercedes-AMG GT63 Pro 4Matic+ is making waves as the ultimate track-focused version of the AMG GT lineup. While it shares the spirit of the earlier AMG GT R Pro, this model brings a fresh perspective. After several laps around the Ascari circuit in Málaga, Spain, it becomes clear that this car is not just about raw track performance—it is more about blending precision with usability, offering a driving experience that draws comparisons to the Porsche 911 Turbo rather than the racetrack-focused 911 GT3.

In the past, the AMG GT R had a reputation for being razor-sharp, almost teetering on the edge of controllability in challenging conditions. The GT63 Pro, however, exudes a calm confidence. Even on a damp track, it feels forgiving, instilling trust in the driver and smoothing over mistakes that would have been costly in the GT R.

Bernd Schneider, a five-time DTM champion who led the laps at Ascari, summed it up best: "This is a completely different concept compared to the GT R. It is still very fast on the racetrack, but most drivers will be quicker in the GT63 Pro. The GT R was a pure race car, while this model is easier to handle and more forgiving."

The second-generation AMG GT has shifted its focus toward versatility and everyday usability. Instead of the rear-mounted transaxle of the previous generation, the transmission is now bolted directly to the back of the engine. This redesign allows for optional rear seats, a larger trunk, and standard all-wheel drive on all versions except the entry-level AMG GT43, which features a four-cylinder engine.

The GT63 Pro takes this foundation and amplifies it for the track, while still keeping it practical and easy to live with. Its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine now produces 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, a bump of 26 horsepower and 37 pound-feet over the standard GT63. Aerodynamic tweaks reduce front-end lift by over 66 pounds and add 33 pounds of rear downforce, ensuring the car remains stable at high speeds.

There are also some under-the-skin upgrades that may go unnoticed at a casual car meet but shine on the racetrack. For instance, water cooling has been added to the front, center, and rear differentials, ensuring optimal performance during intense driving sessions. The carbon-ceramic brakes, which come as standard, have been enhanced with revised disc materials, upgraded brake pads, and new titanium backing plates for improved pedal feel. For serious track enthusiasts, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires are available as a no-cost option, replacing the standard Pilot Sport 5 tires.

Interestingly, AMG chose not to alter the suspension settings, relying instead on the standard active roll stabilization to handle varying driving scenarios. This system works so well that even in challenging conditions, the car remains composed and predictable.

The track at Ascari was damp when we set out in Race mode, but the Cup 2 R tires found grip quickly, proving their capability on wet surfaces. The fully variable all-wheel-drive system, which includes a rear-wheel-drive drift mode, felt rear-biased and secure rather than overly dramatic. Initially, the immense power triggered some stability-control interventions, but once we adjusted to the car’s midrange torque and tightly spaced gear ratios, it became clear that short-shifting was the key to faster laps.

As the track dried, the GT63 Pro revealed its full potential. The V8 engine pulled hard from low speeds and remained lively well into the higher rev range, while the nine-speed automatic transmission delivered precise and quick shifts. The Pro also features an acoustic reminder to upshift, though this can be turned off for those who prefer a quieter experience.

With its revised weight distribution—54 percent in the front and 46 percent in the rear—the GT63 Pro feels sharper and more agile than one might expect. The active roll stabilization keeps the car flat and controlled, even through Ascari’s demanding corners. Rear-wheel steering is seamlessly integrated, enhancing maneuverability without ever feeling intrusive.

In short, the Mercedes-AMG GT63 Pro strikes a remarkable balance. It is faster and more forgiving than its predecessor, making it a joy for both amateur and experienced drivers. Positioned somewhere between the Porsche 911 Turbo and the Aston Martin Vantage, it combines muscular character with track-ready sharpness, offering a truly versatile high-performance package.

Pricing is yet to be announced, but it is expected to be close to $200,000 when it arrives in the United States in the first half of 2025. Whether on the track or the road, this is a car that demands attention for all the right reasons.

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