The Mercedes-AMG GT R was introduced at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2016 and it appears the model could be getting a minor facelift or a new aerodynamic styling package.
Details are limited but a mysterious prototype was recently spotted undergoing testing on the Nürburgring with a camouflaged front fascia that features canards and a front splitter. This particular model has also been equipped with a new rear wing that should optimize downforce. There doesn’t appear to any other changes but it’s hard to know what’s happening underneath the skin.
While it’s natural to assume this might be a prototype for the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, our spy shooters think otherwise. As they note, the styling tweaks are minor and the prototype is wearing the same license plate as a GT R that was used in a handful of press photos.
Given the focus on aerodynamic styling tweaks, it seems the most likely possibility is a new styling package. Of course, there’s also the chance that these changes could be folded into a minor facelift for the model as the standard AMG GT has already seen a refreshening.
Regardless of what Mercedes is planning, the current AMG GT R has a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine with 585 PS (430 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission which enables the model to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.6 seconds before hitting a top speed of 318 km/h (197 mph).
Since the model was designed for the track, engineers installed a carbon fiber roof, a wider track and a unique suspension which features an assortment of forged aluminum components to reduce weight. Thanks to these and other changes, the Mercedes-AMG GT R can lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 7 minutes and 10.9 seconds.
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