New Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster is a 197mph convertible

Mercedes-AMG has announced it will build just 750 examples of an all-new GT R Roadster, each with a top speed of 197mph. Fitted with a folding soft-top roof, the Roadster receives the same performance upgrades as the GT R coupe, along with a unique set of lightweight alloy wheels.

Power comes from a 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine that's turbocharged to produce 568bhp. The car sends that power to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, launching the drop-top from 0-62mph in 3.6 seconds. Official economy stands at 22.8mpg with CO2 emissions at 284g/km.

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The car features a raft of technology to aid performance, including adaptive suspension, carbon fibre body stiffening and rear-wheel steering to improve agility. A high-performance ceramic brake option is also available, weighing 15kg less and providing 'even better fade resistance' during repeated high-speed stops.

The most obvious visual difference is the large rear spoiler, but it's just one part of an aerodynamic package that also includes a front splitter, lower side skirts and a rear diffuser to help suck the GT R Roadster to the tarmac. LED headlights are standard, and its alloy wheels are staggered, with 19-inch versions at the front and wider 20-inch wheels at the rear.

New sports seats are heavily sculpted to hold occupants firmly in position, while Nappa leather upholstery adds to the luxury feel. There's the latest Mercedes tech too, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument pack and 10.25-inch infotainment screen. It's also set apart with an AMG steering wheel, 'galvanised' shift paddles and carbon fibre trim. Mercedes’ ‘Airscarf’ system is also standard to ensure passengers stay comfortable in cool weather, with warm air blown from the top of the seat backs.

For even more exclusivity, an AMG Carbon-Fibre Pack can be chosen, making the front splitter, fins, side skirts and rear diffuser carbon fibre, as well as the rear spoiler and door mirrors.

Whether the Mercedes-AMG GT R Roadster will reach the UK is still to be confirmed. If the car is made available in right-hand drive, expect to pay around £150,000, which represents a £10,000 premium over the cost of the standard model.

If you're after a pulse-quickening performance car, take a look at our in-depth Mercedes-AMG Roadster review, along with rivals like the McLaren 570S Spider and Porsche 911 Cabriolet.