Abstract: A gradient coil assembly (22) generates substantially linear gradient magnetic fields through an examination region (14). The gradient coil assembly (22) includes a pair of primary gradient coil sets (22a, 22b) and a pair of shield coil sets (23a, 23b) which are disposed in an overlapping relationship. One gradient coil set is displaced relative to the other gradient coil set such that the mutual inductance between the two is minimized. Preferably, the coil sets (22a, 22b, 23a, 23b) are asymmetric, such that the sweet spot of each coil is displaced from the geometric center of each coil. One primary gradient coil set (22a) is a high efficiency, high switching speed coil to enhance performance of ultrafast magnetic resonance sequences, while the second primary gradient coil set (22b) is a low efficiency coil which generates a high quality gradient magnetic field, but with slower switching speeds.