Iconic Mercedes debuts at Australia’s most exclusive event

This exotic coupe arrived at one of Australia’s most iconic events, making a bold statement alongside art, fashion and celebrities.

Colourful balloons or wacky inflatable figures don’t sell $400,000 cars.

But exclusive premieres for priceless artworks might, which is why Mercedes presented its latest - and most desirable - model at the National Gallery of Victoria.

Unofficially known as Australia’s answer to New York’s Met Gala, Saturday’s NGV Gala marked the grand opening of an exhibition celebrating Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama.

And the public debut of Mercedes’ hottest model.

On Saturday night, Melbourne’s art and fashion elite were greeted by a masterpiece: the new Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Coupe. Picture: Mercedes-Benz Australia.

MORE: Why the Mercedes-AMG GT is the ultimate status symbol

As guests arrived in a sea of colour, couture and creativity, they were greeted by a metal masterpiece in the new Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Coupe.

The Mercedes stole the spotlight at one of the most prestigious events on the Australian fashion calendar, drawing attention worthy of its eye-popping price tag – $366,500 plus options and on-road-costs that push its figure beyond $400,000.

The staggering sticker makes sense when you see it in person, alpine grey paintwork shimmering like a modern sculpture.

The new Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Coupe comes with a staggering price tag of approximately $370,000 (MRLP) plus on-road-costs (ORCs). Picture: Supplied

Set on a pink carpet, the sleek two-door drove beyond the realm of regular cars to become a symbol of four-wheeled art.

Powered by a 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine capable of producing 430kW and 800Nm of torque, it can sprint to 0-100km/h in just 3.2 seconds – yikes!

Mercedes’ decision to showcase the AMG GT 63 Coupe at the Gala is more than just a showcase of what its engineers can achieve.

It’s a strategic move by a brand looking for new ways to engage customers.

Mercedes does it well by aligning itself with cultural and artistic events that resonate with its identity and the passions of its customers.

MORE: Carrie Bickmore shines on NGV pink carpet

The all-new 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ Coupe will be priced from $366,500 plus on-road costs. Picture: Supplied

Mercedes-Benz head of brand engagement, Jerry Stamoulis, said the AMG GT represents a “seamless blend of artistry and refinement” and “the perfect complement” to the exhibition.

“Displayed against the backdrop of this remarkable exhibition, it highlights creative expression and engineering excellence,” he said.

The event attracted stars including Julia Fox, who strutted the pink carpet in an avant-garde ensemble that turned heads and inspired debate.

The event attracted stars like Julia Fox, who strutted the pink carpet in an avant-garde ensemble that turned heads and inspired debate. Picture: Supplied

Charlee Fraser and Montana Cox brought their runway poise and viral sensations Inspired Unemployed kept the vibe playful with their charm.

Shanina Shaik stole the show in a tartan gown by emerging Australian designer Jarrod Reid, a piece commissioned by Mercedes-Benz.

Once inside, guests were treated to a private viewing of Kusama’s work, which includes more than 200 pieces of art and spans five decades.

Shanina Shaik wearing custom emerging Australian designer Jarrod Reid, a piece commissioned by Mercedes-Benz. Picture: Supplied

It is the largest exhibition of the artist’s work in Australia and one of the most comprehensive retrospectives of the artist presented globally, including her iconic Infinity Mirror Rooms, sculptures and paintings.

A new immersive display titled Dancing Lights that Flew Up to the Universe, wowed the crowd.

“The pink carpet, the stars, the art, the Mercedes, it’s the kind of event that feels like a dream” one attendee said.

Mercedes-Benz chief operating officer Jaime Cohen said it’s more than just a night of glitz and glamour.

Yayoi Kusama is a world-premiere blockbuster exhibition celebrating the illustrious career of the iconic contemporary artist spanning her eight-decade practice. Hidenori Ota, founder of Ota Fine Arts in an exhibit called, Love is Calling. Picture: David Caird

“We have always seen many synergies and parallels between Mercedes-Benz, a company renowned for design, innovation and craftsmanship, and the way that NGV represents these same values in bringing some of the world’s most prestigious exhibitions to Melbourne.” he said.

Beyond the Gala, Mercedes-Benz will be bringing the Kusama’s signature polka-dots to life on the CLE Coupe for the upcoming NGV Kids Summer Festival, which will run from 11-17 January 2025.

The free festival offers hands-on art making workshops, interactive exhibitions and storytelling across the holidays.

Originally published as Iconic Mercedes debuts at Australia’s most exclusive event