The Saratogian (Saratoga, NY)

Mercedes-Benz puts the ‘gee!’ in luxury GT coupe

- By Marc Grasso

Top-down fun in the sun is all the norm in the GT C.

Top brand Mercedes-Benz lives atop the luxury market. It has defined the market, with upscale interiors, a good ride, elegant styling and superior technology and performanc­e, all features of the GT coupe.

Our convertibl­e tester was powerful and stylish. Its $162K price tag says a lot. One thing that can be said: Wow.

The GTC Roadster boasts an extra-long nose surroundin­g the handcrafte­d AMG 4.0L V8 Bi-Turbo engine (producing a whopping 550 horsepower and 502 ft.-lb. of torque). The AMG sevenspeed Speedshift automatic transmissi­on is smooth and nicely distribute­s the endless power. For drivers and passengers alike, the GT C is one heck of a machine.

Its ability to do just about everything from speed, comfort, appeal and phenomenal power are chart-topping qualities.

The interior of the GT C is second to none. Not the easiest in the navigating department, but the accoutreme­nts outweigh the negatives. Dual-zone climate control, a 12.3-inch touch screen infotainme­nt system that is crisp and clean, AMG performanc­e seats that are not over-bolstered for a full-figured person, and a great gripping suede performanc­e steeringwh­eel are just some of the treats offered.

Magnetic Black Metallic paint was a $720 option, while the Black Piano Lacquer interior trim is only $750. Interior and exterior night styling package align with the 19” front and 20” rear wheels. Finally a highend Burmester Surround Sound system packs themusic punch for riders to enjoy at an astounding $4,500.

Consumers looking to be the talk of the convertibl­e town need the GT C in their array of vehicles. It is throaty, great looking and a realistic option for drivers looking for a second or third vehicle. Clearly not a daily driver, unless your Clevel executive job warrants a private parking spot or garage home for it, because this isn’t your typical parking lot vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz GT C

MSRP: $162,400 As tested: $174,665

MPG: 15 city, 20 highway, 17.7 as tested

 ?? MARC GRASSO — MEDIANEWS GROUP ?? The Mercedes-Benz GT C is a cool slice of driving superiorit­y, with a 4.0L V8Bi-Turbo engine with 550horsepo­wer, a smooth transmissi­on and enough pizzazz tomake you the talk of the town.
MARC GRASSO — MEDIANEWS GROUP The Mercedes-Benz GT C is a cool slice of driving superiorit­y, with a 4.0L V8Bi-Turbo engine with 550horsepo­wer, a smooth transmissi­on and enough pizzazz tomake you the talk of the town.
 ?? MARC GRASSO— MEDIANEWS GROUP ?? TheMercede­s-Benz GT C is a cool slice of driving superiorit­y, with a 4.0L V8Bi-Turbo engine with 550 horsepower, a smooth transmissi­on and enough pizzazz to make you the talk of the town.
MARC GRASSO— MEDIANEWS GROUP TheMercede­s-Benz GT C is a cool slice of driving superiorit­y, with a 4.0L V8Bi-Turbo engine with 550 horsepower, a smooth transmissi­on and enough pizzazz to make you the talk of the town.

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