Spy photographers have caught the 2021
Mercedes C-Class on multiple occasions, but now they’ve spotted what appears to
be an AMG variant. While the model is heavily disguised, there are a few clues
indicating this was born in Affalterbach. The most noticeable is the egg crate
grille cover which is a hallmark of AMG models and used to hide the
Panamericana grille.
Elsewhere, we can see a beefy braking
system with ventilated discs and large front calipers. The latter are
unbranded, but have plenty of space for AMG lettering. A closer inspection also
reveals a hidden dual exhaust system. This is likely just temporary as AMG
models flaunt their tailpipes.
There isn’t much else to see, but the
redesigned model will adopt sleeker headlights and streamlined bodywork. We can
also see an evolutionary rear end with new taillights. Lastly, the car appears
longer than its predecessor and this extra length should help distance the
model from the A-Class Sedan.
Despite the evolutionary exterior, the
cabin will be a radical departure as it will follow in the footsteps of the new
S-Class. As a result, the freestanding infotainment system and center stack
will be replaced by an angular slab that features a large touchscreen display
and a row of new climate controls. Elsewhere, drivers will find a new steering
wheel and a digital instrument cluster. There will also be a new center console
and updated air vents which retain their circular design.
While we already know a lot of the
C-Class, we’re not entirely sure if the mid-level AMG variant will be badged
the C43 or the C53. Previous reports have suggested it will adopt the latter
moniker and feature a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with EQ Boost
technology. This setup allows other 53 variants to produce 429 hp and 520 Nm of torque. If the powertrain does carryover from
other 53 models, it would be a significant improvement as the current C43 has a
twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 with 385 hp and 520 Nm of
torque. It allows the all-wheel sedan to run from 0-96 km/h in 4.5
seconds.