Mercedes-AMG has decided that the new GT could do with some track focussed upgrades, and the result is the 2024 GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ (try saying that quickly three times) that follows on from the previous AMG GT R. The most notable change over the “standard” model is a power boost from the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 which now produces 604 bhp, up 27 bhp.

Torque has also been increased to 625 lb-ft (850 Nm), at 37 lb-ft (50 Nm) increase over the regular GT 63. These changes reduce the 0-62 mph time to 3.2 seconds, while 124 mph passes in 10.9 seconds, a whole half a second quicker than the GT 63. As with most German high performance cars the top speed is limited, but to 197 mph.

With an increase in power and track tailoring, Mercedes-AMG have improved the cooling system by adding an extra radiator on each side of the bumper. There is now active cooling of the top-mounted radiators for the front and rear differentials, along with revised brake backing plates to channel more air to the rotors to help to prevent overheating - essential for a track-focussed car like this. 

Continuing on the theme of brakes, stopping power is supplied by ceramic composite brake discs which are gripped by six-piston callipers at the front and a single piston floating calliper at the rear. The 420mm front brake discs are the largest standard fit ceramics available from AMG. These discs also borrow from Mercedes’ learnings in motorsport as the back of the discs are made of titanium.

Teaming with the cooling changes, improvements to the aerodynamics have been made for the GT 63 PRO. At the front, you’ll find a redesigned bumper, with painted inserts that look similar to those found on the Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport. Carbon fibre trim comes as standard and can be found on the grille, mirrors, diffuser and rear wing. This fixed wing works together with active underbody aerodynamic elements borrowed from the AMG ONE for an extra 15 kg of downforce.

21” forged wheels finished in matte grey are standard, and there are two high-performance tyres available: Michelin Pilot Sport 5 as standard, or Pilot Sport Cup 2 R as an option. The tyre sizes are 295/30 and 305/30 ZR 21 for the front and rear respectively. With tyres as wide as this, all-wheel drive and rear-axle steering, the GT 63 Pro should have no problems gripping, turning and accelerating out of corners on road or track.

Given that Mercedes-AMG have decided to give the ‘standard’ GT the PRO treatment, does this mean a potentially even more hardcore version is in the works? We’ve heard rumours of new hybridised powertrains and updated V8s, so I don’t think that the PRO will be the only track-focussed GT to come from AMG. With a starting price close to that of the 804 bhp GT 63 S E Performance hybrid expected, would you go for outright power or greater handling when choosing a new AMG GT?