In the market for a new Mercedes C-Class sedan, but
not inclined towards the full-on AMG C63? Then the C43 could be just the right
fit – and now Benz has upgraded the performance sedan to make it an even more
tempting proposition.
The German automaker has applied a host of
enhancements to the C43 for the 2019 model year, the biggest of which, as you
might expect, can be found under the hood.
The 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 was
massaged to deliver 390 PS. That’s 23 more than before, backed up by 384 lb-ft
of torque that are transmitted to all four wheels by a nine-speed automatic
transmission. The C43 does the 0-100 km/h sprint at 4.7 seconds
(4.8 for the Estate), which is the same as before despite the power bump, and
its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
AMG Performance 4Matic all-wheel drive, an AMG Ride
Control sport suspension, AMG Dynamic Select drive programs and a
speed-sensitive electromechanical steering help muster the most that the C43
can offer, while there’s an AMG Track Pace telemetry system on offer as well.
Along with the more potent engine, Mercedes-AMG has
given the C43 a new grille and front and rear bumpers with enhanced aero
elements. The dual tailpipes are finished in chrome and there’s a trunk-lid
spoiler to help manage airflow, too.
The 18- or 19-inch alloys are available in
grey or gloss black finish, and buyers will also be able to spec the AMG Night
Pack that blacks out the splitter, spoiler and side skirts. Also available are
optional AMG Performance seats with added bolstering, and there’s an array of
interior and exterior aesthetic treatments available as well.
Buyers in overseas markets will be able to order the
new Mercedes-AMG C43 in either sedan or estate body-styles, however only the
sedan will be offered in the United States. Pricing has yet to be announced,
but the 2018 model carries an MSRP of US$ 53,400. That’s a fair bit less, for what
it’s worth, than the US$ 66k it’ll take to put you in a C63, or the US$ 74k commanded
by the top C63 S sedan. Expect the new model to debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor
Show that opens its doors tomorrow.
