Mercedes-Benz officially launches the latest model of its most important product in its portfolio, the new C-Class. The model’s success is partly down to its wide range of engines, also including two sporty two-door versions plus the Mercedes-AMG 43-series.
“As the most successful model series for Mercedes-AMG, the C-Class family has made a major contribution to our corporate success. One major component in this success story was the implementation of the 43-series models, which have thrilled our customers worldwide since the market launch in 2015.”
“The high demand and positive feedback have encouraged us to sharpen up not only the appearance of the facelift, but also its performance, efficiency and dynamism in true AMG style,” says Tobias Moers, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The first update is the heart of the car. The already-impressive and sonorous 43-series 3-litre twin-turbo V6 engine gets an increase in power output, to 390 hp, a 23 hp increase. The horsepower now peaks at 6,100 rpm, versus the 367 hp that was available at a short plateau of 5,500 – 6,000 rpm.
No changes in the torque output, maintaining the figure of 520 Nm that is available from 2,500 rpm to 5,000 rpm.
The transmission in the new C43 carries the AMG Speedshift TCT 9G name. While the name is new, the features in this torque converter transmission (TCT) with nine forward ratios such as very short shift times as well as a double-declutching function in “Sport” and Sport+” drive programs are maintained.
This transmission also continues to distribute traction to a special AMG-tuned 69 percent rear-biased 4Matic all-wheel drive system.
The additional power output did not change the acceleration time, reaching the benchmark 100 km/h from standstill in a very rapid 4.7 seconds.
Up front, the front grille has been updated, now featuring a twin horizontal beam in satin silver over a gloss black mesh-pattern, looking similar to the more powerful 63-series. The most obvious tell-tale sign of the new, more powerful C43 will be the rear design. The rear bumper now adorns two round twin tailpipes with a redesigned diffuser in between them.
Inside the new C43, the fully digital instrument panel measuring 12.3 inches greets the driver. A new “Supersport” display style brings the tachometer to the centre of the digital display, while other important parameters such as exhaust, ESC, suspension, and drive system are placed on the left.
Drivers can control the content in the meter display through the new steering wheel’s Touch Control buttons that respond to swiping motions like the screen of a smartphone, a feature that trickled down from the new S-Class.
Apart from the Touch Control buttons, the new generation AMG steering wheel is designed with a grippy shape, a heavily contoured rim and flattened bottom. Key performance-touches include a galvanized finish on the oversized shift paddles and a sporty red-marking at the 12 o’clock position.
A new occupant-wellness feature called ENERGIZING comfort control is also available in the new C43. It networks together with the various comfort systems in the vehicle and uses specific functions of the air conditioning and seats (heating, ventilation) plus lighting and music moods.
Depending on the mood or requirement of the driver, it generates a special wellness set-up to enhance the occupant’s well-being and performance.
As more and more customers enjoy bringing their Mercedes-AMG vehicles to the racetrack, the new C43 is also available with the AMG Track Pace data logger and virtual race engineer suite.
The system records an abundance of motorsport-performance related data to help the driver improve his/her lap time. Owners can share their experiences and data from the race track with other AMG drivers via Facebook, YouTube or the AMG Private Lounge.
Mercedes-Benz will continue to offer the C43 in the sedan, estate, coupe and soft-top ‘cabriolet’ body styles.
We have also touched on the new C-class with C200 EQ Boost mild hybrid. Learn more about this new powertrain here.
Keyword: The New Mercedes-AMG C43- 390 Hp, Supersport Display, And Virtual Race Engineer