Ever been to a Mercedes-Benz dealership, or ever considered taking out a lease on a Mercedes-Benz vehicle?
If the answer to that question is 'Yes', then chances are that you've seen the letters 'AMG' slapped onto the names of some of their car models.
Yet those letters aren't just there to look pretty. Oh no.
AMG models may have some cosmetic and stylistic differences that don't make much of a difference deep down, but they can also offer you a better and improved experience in terms of engine, performance and drive quality. As if that wasn't enough, you also get what's called AMG Line, not to mention AMG Premium and AMG Premium Plus.
Confusing, right?
Yep, it's a lot of car terminology to get your head around, but we're here to help break it all down for you into simple, bite-size chunks. So: what can AMG offer you, and what do AMG models have that a non-AMG model doesn't? Also, what is AMG Line, and is there a difference between AMG and AMG Premium?
Let's find out ...
Mercedes-AMG Meaning and History
A = Aufrecht
M = Melcher
G = Großaspach
And in case those intimidating-sounding German names didn't clear things up, Aufrecht and Melcher were the two former Mercedes-Benz engineers who founded AMG in 1967, whilst Großaspach was Aufrecht's birthplace. So that's what the three letters stand for.
AMG is basically the performance sub-brand of Mercedes-Benz – the equivalent of BMW’s M division and Audi Sport’s S and RS models. It actually started out by tuning and building engines for motor-racing, but soon got into the business of tuning road cars and by the 1980s was well-known for it. Featuring models with sportier handling and a more refined, elegant appearance, it's fair to say that AMG has given us some of the world's most sought-after performance vehicles.
Tired of hearing 'AMG' yet?
Didn't think so!
How are AMG Cars Different from Non-AMG Cars?
Mercedes-AMG models may be similar in name and look a lot like their regular non-AMG counterparts, but there are some significant differences, both above and below the skin. Born from a passion for motorsport, every AMG model can be considered a unique blend of success, inspiration and power. They are always the most powerful versions in their respective model ranges.
The biggest difference (and one that might help make your driving life a whole lot better) is the more powerful engine that comes as standard in AMG models, as nearly all AMG engines are hand-crafted under the ‘One Man – One Engine’ standard. Each of these engines is built by a single engineer and bears the signature of its maker once completed, demonstrating the craftsmanship, precision and attention to detail that AMG is known for. Indeed, AMG engines have practically become a byword for enormous power, which will always be their biggest strength.
To help cope with all that added power down in the engine department, AMG models tend to receive a whole host of mechanical upgrades as well, from firmer suspension, better aerodynamics, massive breakage, and more.
Mercedes-AMG Range
The great news is that AMG isn't some exclusive gentleman's club, and you can gain access to AMG lease deals just as easily as a pint of milk down the shops (well, maybe not that easy, but you get the picture ...). Just have a look through our Mercedes-Benz range and you'll find them!
Indeed, almost every Mercedes-Benz model is available in AMG form, so there's something for practically every kind of driver: whether it's a saloon, a coupe, an A-Class or an SUV. Mercedes-AMG offers the highest-performance versions of almost the whole Mercedes range, as well as some unique Mercedes-based automobiles – the most sought-after being the extraordinary GT Coupe.
Exterior Features
As well as the under the bonnet mechanical improvements, a little styling also comes into it as well, as AMG models receive aggressive new bodywork with great intakes and aerodynamic enhancements.
AMG vehicles usually come with attractive exterior features like side-view mirrors and flared fenders done in body-colour paint, large AMG alloy wheels, performance tires, twin dual-outlet tailpipes, active LED headlights to ignore, and some other goodies which are bound to get people looking.
So if you ever wanted to look good whilst out on the roads, getting behind the wheel of an AMG is certainly one way to go about it.
Interior Features
In the interior as well, all Mercedes-AMG models have a lot to offer you. There's everything from Nappa interior leather to heated and vented front seats, a panoramic moonroof, a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear armrests, ambient interior lighting, a heated centre console, luxury headrests, heated and cooled cup holders, and more.
Tech-wise, you can benefit from a navigation system, large touchscreens, a Burmester sound system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless smartphone charging, among other features.
AMG vs AMG Line: What's the Difference?
The best way of explaining it is that AMGs are a big step up from standard Mercedes-Benz models, whereas AMG Lines are only a small step up from AMGs.
Whilst AMG models can make a big difference because they feature high-performance engines designed with driving performance in mind, AMG Line is mostly a 'nice to have', adding primarily cosmetic differences to your Mercedes-Benz which have almost no bearing on the performance. An AMG Line model does still contain the high-performance engine of a standard non-Line AMG, but it just adds extra features to improve the car's looks, taking your Mercedes-Benz to the very highest level. It's probably not worth paying extra for if the only thing you care about is the drive quality.
That being said, AMG Lines do come with upgraded brakes and sports suspension, offering a firmer ride. You also get what Mercedes calls “sports direct-steer system”. What this does is it basically offers agile vehicle response on winding roads and increases straight-line stability.
However, the main differences lie in cosmetics, as AMG-Line models have a sporty design edge, with AMG body styling and various other features available across the range. For example, the A-Class is given a diamond-shaped radiator grille with pins in chrome and silver louvre with chrome insert.
AMG Line models give you signature details including AMG alloy wheels, visible exhaust tailpipe trim elements, sport seats, an AMG flat-bottomed multifunction steering wheel, steering wheel, AMG floor mats and a Direct-Steer system, all adding up to some seriously good looks whilst out on the road. The interior can also add some other more subtle touches like metal sports pedals and special stitching.
As the AMG-Line is the sporty trim, you get sport-style front seats and a flat-bottomed multifunction steering wheel. There are also a few other subtle features, like steel sports pedals, unique stitching in the upholstery and AMG floor mats.
What is AMG Line Premium?
As if that wasn't already enough, you then get what's called AMG Line Premium, so if you want to increase your comfort even further and have the very best in looks and entertainment, then AMG Premium lines let you do just that.
And then, wait for it ...
The next (and last, phew) step up from Premium is Premium Plus. This is sheer top-of-the-range stuff, adding features like new Multibeam LED headlight technology, panoramic glass sunroofs, adaptive high beam assist system, as well as safety features like automatic traffic sign recognition.
The full shebang, in other words.
Final Verdict: Should You Lease One?
Due to the added styling and performance benefits (not to mention the bragging rights over your non-AMG friends), we'd love to answer that question with a straight-out, resounding YES, but we realise you may have very specific needs.
As we said before, the jump from standard Mercedes-Benz to AMG is significant and could be worth it for the extra engine performance, but the jump from AMG to AMG Line is minimal, and maybe not worth it unless you want some cosmetic improvements. Yet if you're not prepared to dish out the extra cost for AMG or don't think it's quite worth it, then a regular Mercedes-Benz will do just fine. But again, our job is to inform you and not decide for you.
So, whether it's the roaring power of an AMG engine, the slick styling of an AMG Line trim, or just a plain old Mercedes-Benz, the world's your oyster. Whatever you do, just make sure you lease it rather than PCP it. And no, we're not just saying that because we're a leasing company. It really will save you money, AND you won't have to deal with deciding whether to own or sell on the car at the end of the agreement.
As always, happy leasing!
FAQs
What is AMG Line Mercedes Benz?
Whilst AMG models feature noticeable differences like a high-performance engine designed with driving performance in mind, AMG Line models add mostly cosmetic and stylistic differences to your Mercedes-Benz.
What is the difference between AMG Premium and Premium Plus?
Premium Plus is based on Premium, but adds features like surround sound systems, touchpads, high-resolution colour displays, navigation systems with 3D maps and internet connectivity.
What is included in the AMG Line package?
AMG Line includes various exterior and interior enhancements that reflect the bold, distinct AMG styling. These enhancements are features like AMG wheels, chrome accents, signature Diamond Grilles, and more.
How do I know if my car is AMG?
Hopefully you knew when you bought it or took out a lease on it, but if you don't already know, then AMG lettering above the exhaust pipe should confirm if your car is AMG or not.
Are Mercedes-AMG cars petrol or diesel?
All Mercedes-AMG cars with internal combustion engines (i.e. petrol and diesel) currently on sale for finance or lease are petrol-powered, although AMG has had a crack at a diesel model before in the form of the 2002 C30 CDI AMG.
Where are Mercedes-AMG cars built?
AMG builds its cars in Affalterbach, southwest Germany.
What's the difference between AMG and regular Mercedes?
AMG models offer sportier handling and more stylish aesthetics. Being the performance division of Mercedes-Benz, they're tuned specifically for performance and power.