Report: Mercedes-AMG Readying GT Sedan

Daimler AG’s Mercedes-AMG unit will take the wraps off a concept sedan next month at the Geneva auto show and follow up with a production model next year, Autocar reports.

Expected to be called the GT4, the new model will share styling elements with the AMG GT coupe (pictured) but will ride on a different platform, according to the U.K. enthusiast magazine. Autocar says the new AMG sedan, which will compete against the Audi A7/RS7, BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe and Porsche Panamera, will use an updated version of Mercedes’ modular MRA rear-wheel-drive platform that underpins the E-Class full-size sedan.

The GT4 will feature a variety of lightweight materials, including aluminum and hot-formed high-strength steel, according to the report. Power is expected to come from a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine borrowed from the Mercedes E63. The engine could be teamed with a 48-volt integrated starter generator to boost output and efficiency, Autocar says. A customized suspension also is said to be in the works.

Replacing the slow-selling CLS Shooting Brake wagon, the GT4 would be Mercedes-AMG’s third standalone model after the GT coupe and SLS supercar. AMG has said it plans to expand its overall lineup of modified Mercedes models and custom vehicles from 31 to 48 in coming years.

Mercedes-AMG declines to comment on the GT4 report. But it promises to unveil a “stunning” new show car in Geneva in celebration of its 50th anniversary.