René Szczepek suggested competitors like BMW M and Cadillac V-Series have overcomplicated their offerings with too many driving modes during a recent ride‑along in a prototype AMG GT SUV. The SUV, which will be the first AMG‑badged SUV built on a dedicated platform, features three swirly metal dials on the center console, each with nine settings. This creates 729 possible combinations of Response, Agility, and Traction settings.
A Different Kind of Hater
Szczepek was driving the SUV variant of the 2027 Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door, an EV that has drawn significant backlash online. The car was launched in highlighter yellow with a party on the sixth street bridge in downtown L.A., complete with Blink 182 and Formula 1 drivers Kimi Antonelli and George Russell. While the publication hasn’t tested the vehicle, the response in online comment sections was reportedly negative. Szczepek, however, seems unconcerned with public sentiment, focusing instead on the technical implementation of the AMG driving experience.
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The prototype vehicle featured a nearly finished interior with yards of blue leather. It still had exposed button heads and unfinished plastic surfaces, likely to snap on camo covers before the interior was revealed. Despite its camouflage, the ride and handling felt smooth during the 30-minute drive along California’s Highway 1. Szczepek, who handles the integration and simulation of the AMG ethos, was eager to demonstrate the variability of the car’s artificial sound system. The system can produce a deep rumble at idle and higher‑pitched roars when the throttle is applied.
While the electric motors carry over from the AMG GT 4‑door coupe, the configuration is unique. The base architecture uses three high‑power electric motors—one in the front and two in the rear. Szczepek explained that two motors at the rear are necessary to create the high‑performance feel and the specific oversteering condition that enthusiasts desire. He noted that the front motor is only used for launch and traction control, which keeps the weight distribution balanced and the handling responsive.