’16 Mercedes AMG GT S

Mercedes AMG GT S base price is $129,900.

Cardinal Red Metallic paint job costs extra $1,080.

Carbon-fiber AMG sillplate.

Liftgate reveals decent cargo hold.

AMG has delivered extreme models before, such as SL65 Black Series and SLS Black Series, but GT S is more affordable.

Microsuede on instrument panel.

Eye drawn first to gently sloping center console.

Center console handsomely appointed, but gear shifter placed at driver's right elbow makes for ergonomic challenge.

Switch on Dynamic Performance Exhaust System for more volume. Stop/start will be on at startup.

GT S carries over many of infotainment and comfort innovations introduced in S-Class.

“The car’s not for everybody," one editor says.

Long front end extends wheelbase but also makes GT S heavier than Porsche 911 Turbo.

Beautiful, flowing lines.

4.0L bi-turbo V-8 packed neatly in engine compartment.

Good work, Tobias.

Higher speeds require additional air in tires.

Very little extra space within wheel wells.

Most expensive single option is $8,950 carbon-ceramic brakes.

Tailpipes shrouded in carbon fiber.

Carbon fiber also embedded within instrumentation.

17.2 mpg respectable for 503-hp sports car.

AMG sign greets driver at startup.

Soft ambient lighting at night.

Black Nappa leather keeps driver planted.

Microsuede also covers headliner and A-pillars.

Wide contact patch.

Tail end clean, muscular.

Head restraint integrated, trimmed in brushed aluminum.

Tri-star displayed proudly.

Tri-star displayed proudly.