Mercedes-Benz has streamlined its AMG GT-Class lineup for 2022, focusing solely on the sedan model, which they playfully term a “four-door coupe”. While the coupe and convertible versions, along with the high-performance GT 63 S trim for the sedan, are currently on hiatus, the 2022 AMG GT still offers a compelling blend of performance and luxury. Available in GT 43 and GT 53 trims, this model aims to capture the sporty essence of the AMG GT coupe within a more practical sedan body. For those in the UK market considering a luxury sport sedan, understanding the nuances of the 2022 Mercedes-benz Gt-class is crucial. Let’s delve into a comprehensive review to see if this vehicle aligns with your needs and preferences.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The heart of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GT-Class lies in its performance, particularly the AMG GT 53 variant we evaluated. The engine delivers robust and responsive power, making city driving and motorway cruising equally enjoyable. The smooth power delivery is complemented by the standard all-wheel drive system, ensuring confident traction in varied driving conditions, something particularly relevant for UK roads and weather. In our track testing, the AMG GT 53 achieved a 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 4.5 seconds, placing it competitively against rivals like the Audi S7 and BMW 840i Gran Coupe. The automatic transmission is both quick to downshift when needed and seamlessly smooth during regular driving. The engine’s stop-start system is also notably refined, minimizing disruptions to the driving experience.
However, while the engine performance is a strong point, the overall driving experience has areas for improvement. While every car in this category is substantial in size, the AMG GT 53 doesn’t quite mask its weight as effectively as the Porsche Panamera or Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. The suspension provides flat cornering, but the steering feel lacks the desired precision expected from a top-tier sport sedan. Furthermore, in emergency braking tests, the braking distances were not as impressive as expected, although day-to-day braking performance remains adequate. The wide turning radius can also be a drawback, especially in tight urban environments common in the UK.
Comfort and Interior Refinement
Comfort is a significant aspect of any luxury sedan, and the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GT-Class offers a mixed bag in this regard. The AMG GT 53’s suspension is tuned on the firmer side, which, while contributing to sporty handling, results in a less plush ride compared to some competitors. While smooth motorways are handled well, UK roads with imperfections transmit more feedback into the cabin than rivals like the Audi S7 or BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe. Wind and road noise levels are also higher than ideal for a luxury vehicle. On a positive note, the inline-six engine produces a pleasing exhaust note.
Our test vehicle featured optional AMG Performance seats, which, despite their sporty bolstering, are thinly padded and offer limited adjustability unless additional packages are selected. Heated and ventilated seats are available as options, as is a rear bench seat, highlighting a potential need to invest in extras for optimal comfort. However, the front seats are generally comfortable, and the rear bucket seats offer good padding.
Interior Design and Technology
The interior of the 2022 AMG GT 53 showcases Mercedes-Benz’s modern infotainment system, a system familiar from other recent models. While the system is feature-rich and capable, it may present a steeper learning curve initially due to its extensive functionalities. Navigation through menus is facilitated by both a touchscreen and a centre console touchpad, offering user flexibility. Physical buttons are also present for quick access to navigation and media functions. Notably, some centre console buttons are actually small screens, a visually appealing design element, though they can suffer from washout when viewed with polarized sunglasses. The gear selector’s placement might also feel somewhat awkward to some drivers.
Entry and exit can be slightly challenging due to the low roofline and wide doorsills, requiring a bit of maneuvering to get in and out. The heavily bolstered Performance seats in our test car further complicated access. Once inside, the driving position is set quite low, which may not suit all preferences. Visibility is somewhat restricted by the low driving position and small windows, but the excellent surround-view cameras are a significant aid in mitigating these blind spots, especially in tight UK parking spaces.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2022 AMG GT 53 is equipped with Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment system, which includes one of the best in-car navigation systems currently available. The navigation map is clear, easy to read, and avoids unnecessary clutter found in some systems. Directions can be input via touchscreen or Mercedes’ effective “Hey, Mercedes” voice command system. Voice commands are generally excellent, capable of controlling climate settings, radio stations, and even providing lighthearted entertainment. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, although wireless connectivity is not offered for either. A wireless charging pad is standard, though its placement behind the cupholders is somewhat inconvenient. USB-C ports are available in both front and rear rows for device charging.
Driver assistance technology is available, but many features are optional extras or part of packages. Our test vehicle included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane keeping assist, among others. While generally effective, the traffic sign recognition system occasionally caused unnecessary braking, which could be improved for UK road conditions.
Storage and Practicality
Despite its coupe-like silhouette, the 2022 AMG GT 53 offers reasonable practicality. The rear hatch design is a significant advantage, providing access to a 12.7 cubic feet cargo area. While this is less than some coupe-like sedans, the space is wide and deep, making it usable for various luggage and items. The tall rear bumper, however, can make loading heavier items a bit cumbersome.
In-cabin storage is average for the class, with door pockets and a centre console of reasonable size. The cupholders are notably deep, which can be problematic for shorter cups, potentially causing lids to come off. Furthermore, using the cupholders fully obstructs access to the wireless charging pad, an inconvenient design choice. For families, the sloping roofline and wide doorsills might present challenges when installing taller child car seats. While anchor points are clearly marked, their recessed placement within the seat bolstering could also complicate installation. The bucket-style rear seats might further affect the ease of installing child safety seats.
Fuel Economy
The AMG GT 53 achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg combined (19 city/25 highway). In our 115-mile evaluation loop, it recorded 22.4 mpg. While this is better than V8-powered competitors, it is less efficient than many six-cylinder rivals, many of which are also more affordable. For UK drivers conscious of fuel costs, this is a factor to consider.
Value Proposition
The 2022 AMG GT 53 exudes Mercedes-Benz’s signature luxury and style. The interior is attractively designed with quality wood trim and supple leather upholstery. Our test vehicle was well-equipped with optional features like forged wheels, a performance exhaust, AMG Performance seats, and driver assistance systems. However, this level of equipment comes at a premium price. Competitors like BMW, Audi, and Cadillac offer V8 power and enhanced performance at a lower price point. Mercedes-Benz provides a standard four-year/50,000-mile basic, powertrain, and corrosion warranty, which is typical for this class. Roadside assistance is included for the same duration, but unlike some rivals, complimentary scheduled maintenance is not offered.
The Wildcard Factor
The AMG GT 53 delivers competent handling and a potent engine. However, these attributes are also found in other Mercedes sedans, such as the E-Class and CLS, which offer similar features and performance, potentially diminishing the AMG GT 53’s unique appeal. While visually appealing, it doesn’t sufficiently differentiate itself from other models in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. While it offers a sporty and quick driving experience, it lacks the sharpness and agility of some competitors. Other manufacturers manage to make their sport sedans feel more compact and lighter than they actually are, a characteristic where the AMG GT 53 falls slightly short.
Edmunds Recommendation
For the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GT-Class sedan, the AMG GT 53 stands out as the preferred choice. Its upgraded turbocharged straight-six engine offers a more rewarding driving experience compared to the base AMG GT 43. Among the available options, the Driver Assistance package is highly recommended for enhanced safety and convenience.
Compare 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT trim levels
2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Models: Trims and Features
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT sedan, characterized by its coupe-like styling and hatchback trunk, is available in two primary trim levels: AMG GT 43 and AMG GT 53. All-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission are standard across both trims. Standard seating configuration is for four, with an optional rear bench seat increasing capacity to five. Key standard features include:
AMG GT 43: The base model offers:
- Turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque
- 19-inch wheels
- Adaptive sport suspension
- LED headlights
- Sunroof
- Power-operated trunk
- Power-adjustable, heated front seats
- MB-Tex simulated leather upholstery
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Wireless charging pad
- Customizable ambient interior lighting
- Configurable digital instrument panel
- 12.3-inch central touchscreen display with navigation
- Burmester surround-sound system
- Surround-view camera system
- Automated parking system
- Forward collision mitigation
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
AMG GT 53: Upgrades over the GT 43 include:
- Enhanced six-cylinder engine producing 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque
Notable optional packages and stand-alone features:
- Executive Rear Seat package: Includes 40/40-split folding rear seats, heated and cooled rear cupholders, tri-zone automatic climate control, rear wireless charging pad, household power outlet, rear USB ports, and rear touchscreen display.
- Driver Assistance package: Features adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, lane keeping system, and blind-spot intervention.
- Stand-alone options: Second-row bench seat, multi-contour front seats with massage, power rear window sunshade, panoramic sunroof, soft-close doors, heated steering wheel, upgraded front seating options (ventilated, multi-contour, sport), head-up display, and premium Burmester 3D audio system.
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