AMG C43 arrives to spice up latest C-Class range
Mercedes has enhanced its C-Class line-up with the arrival of AMG C43. It’s the hottest C-Class model to date, and will be available in both saloon and estate form.
Ahead of it arriving in the UK from May, here’s what you need to know.
Mercedes-AMG C43 styling
The new C43 ushers in a number of styling differences. Up front, you get an AMG-specific bumper and grille that incorporates chrome struts along with a larger set of air intakes.
Round the side, you’ll find beefier wheel arches than the standard C-Class model along with either 18in, 19in or 20in alloy wheels. At the back, a rear diffuser and twin tailpipes finish the look off.
Mercedes-AMG C43 interior and tech
The C43 carries over the standard C-Class’ interior wholesale, with the exception of sportier bits of trim and AMG-specific seats with sporty beading. Enhanced features include red seat belts, a sports steering wheel and stainless steel pedals.
The stunning digital driver display and MBUX portrait-style infotainment system are both present, with the driver benefiting from enhanced graphics when the car is in certain modes. It’ll also offer shortcuts to the car’s drive mode selection.
Mercedes-AMG C43 drivetrain
And now for the important stuff: the C43 uses a variation of the engine used in the A 45S hatchback, and produces around 410hp – that’s around 30 more than in the hot hatch.
It also benefits from a 48v mild-hybrid system, while all models feature a clever nine-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. In the AMG C43, the 4MATIC system is rear-biased, sending around 70% of power to the rear in normal conditions.
The driver also gets to choose between five drive modes, with Sport+ increasing things like gear shift times, engine responsiveness and stiffening up the suspension and steering.
The result of this drivetrain is a 0-62mph time of under five seconds – beating rivals from the likes of Audi and BMW. Top speed is limited to 155mph, but this can be delimited if you opt for the optional Driver’s Pack which ups this to 165mph.
Mercedes-AMG C63 prices and release date
Set to hit the market from May, UK deliveries are expected to follow in the coming months. No list prices have been revealed, but we reckon it’ll cost from around £55,000. We’ll bring you leasing plans as soon as they are available.
