Following the introduction of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class saloon, AMG saw it fit to improve upon the C 43 as well, and it’s received more than just cosmetic surgery.
The new Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC has received a bump in power apart from its styling updates which include a new front grille, new headlamps and tail-lamps, and sleeker bodywork, among other things inside, primarily the new digital cockpit with twin wide-screen displays.
The said bump in power is 23 PS, up from 367 PS to 390 PS, that comes in slightly higher at 6,100 rpm. The 3.0-litre BiTurbo V6 has the same 520 Nm of peak torque, which comes in later but stays longer, from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. The AMG SpeedShift 9TCT nine-speed transmission is paired to the AMG Performance 4MATIC, that is rear-biased 31:69 and provides for sensational driving characteristics. Claimed performance figures look good, with Mercedes claiming a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.7 seconds.
More goodies come in the form of optional AMG sport seats, with Artico man-made leather or Dinamica upholstery, AMG Ride Control, and an updated Drive Select with Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual, and a new ‘Slippery’ drive mode. The AMG menu in the display can also show information about drive system setup, G-force, engine data, and also packs a race timer. AMG Track Pace can be ordered as an option with the COMAND Online infotainment system. Another option is the Energising Comfort Control wellness system.
The previous C 43 we drove at the Buddh International Circuit impressed us with its everyday usability, exceptional handling, and ride quality. It was a commendable blend of performance and practicality which was also fun to drive. The new C 43 saris something to look forward to.
Story: Jim Gorde
