Photo: Mercedes-Benz
The next-generation 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is still not on sale in Canada, but that didn’t stop the automaker today from introducing the sporty new AMG C 43 model for 2023.
Just like we were warned, the turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 is replaced by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. Unlike the one driving the base C 300, it benefits from a series of upgrades that elevate output to 402 horsepower at 6,750 rpm. Peak torque is 369 pound-feet at 5,000 rpm.
Compared with the previous Mercedes-AMG C 43, the new turbo-four delivers 17 additional horsepower, though at a slightly higher rev count. Torque is down by 15 pound-feet. However, thanks to the F1-derived, electrically assisted turbocharger, Mercedes-Benz claims turbo lag is reduced and boost pressure is maintained on throttle lift.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz
Furthermore, a 48-volt, belt-driven starter-generator can add 13 extra horsepower for a quick boost at lower revs while easing the burden on the gasoline engine. How much is fuel economy improved? The company didn’t say.
Power is controlled by a nine-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission with a wet multi-plate clutch in place of a torque converter. It is then distributed to all four wheels via a rear-biased (31/69) 4MATIC AWD system. The result is 0-100 km/h acceleration in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (or 265 km/h with the optional 19- and 20-inch wheels).
Photo: Mercedes-Benz
There are five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes to choose from including “Slippery”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport +” and “Individual,” which gives you a wide range of vehicle characteristics. As for the chassis, the AMG Ride Control suspension combines steel springs with adaptive dampers, while standard rear-wheel steering improves manoeuverability at low speeds and stability at high speeds. The front brakes use 370mm discs and six-piston callipers.
The car’s exterior isn’t radically different. Highlights include a unique AMG front grille with vertical slats and more aggressively styled bumpers. The rear spoiler is very subtle, but we do like the quad tailpipes down low.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz
Inside, look for red-accented sport seats, red seat belts and a sport steering wheel with a dial for drive mode selection. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel joins an 11.9-inch vertical touchscreen. Augmented-reality navigation, head-up display and AMG TRACK PACE data logger are available, too.
The 2023 Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC is due to go on sale by the end of this year. Expect a significant price increase from the base C 300 4MATIC. As for the future AMG C 63, don’t worry, it’s coming up, as well—with an electrified four-cylinder instead of the classic V8, mind you.
Keyword: Four-Cylinder 2023 Mercedes-AMG C 43 Pushed to 402 Horsepower