Mercedes has announced a GT version of its SLS supercar. Power from the AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine is 591 PS at 6800 rpm, while the maximum torque is 650 Nm at 4750 rpm. The SLS AMG GT accelerates from 0-62 mph in 3.7 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 320 km/h (198 mph) – why could they have not set the limiter two mph higher, we wonder?

The gearchange of the dual clutch transmission is now quicker. Mercedes says the gearchanges are more “distinct” and offer “passionate acoustic feedback”, so it will be interesting to learn if that means rougher as well as quicker.The suspension has also been stiffened and there is no longer a “Comfort” mode. “Sport” is recommended for undulating surfaces and “Sport Plus” is, according to Mercedes, for when you are, “trying to achieve fast lap times on a race circuit such as Hockenheim.”

Highlighting the somewhat schizophrenic nature of Mercedes supercars, this focus on racing is somewhat undermined by the options list, which includes an Airscarf for the Roadster. Apparently, when you are attempting your best-ever lap time, you don’t want to be distracted by a breeze on your neck.

The SLS GT goes on sale in October, with prices still to be confirmed.