This Might Be a Lighter, Faster AMG GT R Clubsport

Sam McEachern
by Sam McEachern

A mysterious Mercedes-AMG GT R prototype has been spotted testing at the Nurburgring and it could be a lighter, faster ‘Clubsport’ version of the performance coupe.

Photos of this prototype were sent to us under the guise of it potentially being a facelifted AMG GT R. However, the AMG GT R was only introduced last year and always featured the ‘Panamericana’ grille that denoted updated AMG GT models. Instead, we think this is the rumored AMG GT R ‘Clubsport’ model, which was referenced by AMG boss Tobias Moers last month. According to Moers, this so-called Clubsport model is currently under development and will be a little bit lighter and faster than the standard AMG GT R, making it more suited to track use.

SEE ALSO: Confirmed: Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series to Arrive in 2020

The prototype pictured here falls directly in line with Moers’ description of the slightly faster AMG GT R. It’s mostly the same as the standard AMG GT R, save for a revised front end with a deeper front splitter. It appears to also feature larger, lightweight wheels (which are, strangely, only fitted to the rear of the prototype) and a small wicker bill extension on the rear spoiler. The license plate, which reads ‘S GT 585’ could also hint toward a small power boost from 577 hp to 585 hp, but that’s pure speculation on our part.

Moers has also been outspoken about an AMG GT Black Series, telling AutoGuide in an interview that the company had “in the past something called Black Series, so let’s wait and see,” which, in automotive executive speak, is basically a confirmation of the vehicle. The Black Series model will be one of the last AMG GT variants to arrive, however, so we’re not expecting it to show up anytime soon.

The ‘Clubsport’ model pictured here may debut before 2018 concludes, so stay tuned for more information.

Discuss this story on our Mercedes-Benz Forum.

Sam McEachern
Sam McEachern

Sam McEachern holds a diploma in journalism from St. Clair College in Windsor, Ontario, and has been covering the automotive industry for over 5 years. He conducts reviews and writes AutoGuide's news content. He's a die-hard motorsports fan with a passion for performance cars of all sorts.

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