THE second generation of the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe has broken cover as the new flagship for the high performance arm of Mercedes-Benz.

Although similar in overall styling to the original GT, the newcomer has more space inside and comes with the option of a 2+2 layout.

To kick off the new model Mercedes-AMG will be launching two versions - the AMG GT 63 and the AMG GT 55.

Both have nine-speed auto gearboxes and are powered by 4.0-litre V8s developing either 585 or 476 horsepower with a smart all-wheel-drive system.

As such the GT 63 can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 3.2 seconds with a maximum of 195mph while the GT 55 takes 3.9 seconds and can reach 183mph.

Final specifications are still to be announced but the price can be expected to be higher than the previous GT which started at around £125,000.

The all-wheel-drive system is clever enough to optimise drive characteristics and can divert the power from a 50-50 distribution to rear-wheel-drive only.

New features on the latest model include active rear steering as standard as well as active aerodynamics to enhance handling.

Interior features include a 12.8-inch touchscreen display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel.

Boot capacity is now up to 321 litres extending to 675 litres and with the new car being built alongside Mercedes new SL at the company's Bremen factory there are no plans for an open top version.

Fuel economy for both versions of the AMG GT is rated officially at 20.1 mpg with emissions of 319g/km.