Mercedes-Benz has revealed the AMG GT, a new halo supercar for its range that will be capable of 0-62mph in four seconds.

The GT will reach UK Mercedes dealers next April and is the second sports car developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. The first was the Mercedes-AMG SLS.

    ♦ View more images of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT

Last year in the UK a record 3,127 AMG cars were registered – up 40% on 2012.

The Mercedes-AMG GT's front mid-engine concept with transaxle and the intelligent aluminium lightweight construction form the basis for a highly dynamic driving experience. Overall weight distribution is 47% front and 53% rear.

Its likewise newly developed AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine underscores the hallmark AMG driving performance.

The first sports car engine with internally mounted turbochargers ('hot inside V') and dry sump lubrication is configured in two output ratings: as a 462bhp GT capable of 0-62mph in 4.0 seconds and 189mph restricted top speed and as a 510bhp GT S that can reach 193mph restricted top speed and covers 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds.

Mercedes says that at the same time, the two-seater is a straightforward, comfortable and reliable companion for everyday motoring thanks to its practical tailgate, easily accessible luggage compartment, high level of comfort on long journeys and the extensive Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive assistance systems.

"With the new Mercedes-AMG GT, we are venturing out into a challenging sports car segment with its top-class competitive field. This is an incentive and motivation for us at the same time to prove to sports car enthusiasts around the world the kind of performance that AMG is capable of," said Prof Dr Thomas Weber, Daimler management board member responsible for group research & Mercedes-Benz Cars development.

"With the new GT we are positioning Mercedes-AMG even more aggressively than to date as a dynamic sports car brand," said Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG.

"With its technological substance, the Mercedes-AMG GT fulfils our high aspirations with regard to driving dynamics, agility and sportiness.

"The new GT is the second sports car developed fully independently by Mercedes-AMG. The car is manufactured according to the motto 'Handcrafted by Racers' – which perfectly encapsulates our heritage and our spirit."