The new Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Saloon and Estate

March 05, 2018

More features and aesthetic updates for the best-selling series

With four body variants, three power levels and two types of propulsion, the C-Class is Mercedes-AMG's most versatile and successful series. Following the introduction of an extensive catalog of measures, the basic C 43 4MATIC Saloon models (combined fuel consumption: 9,1 l/100 km; CO emissions2 in the combined cycle: 209 g/km[1]) and Estate (fuel consumption in the combined cycle: 9,4 l/100 km; CO emissions2 in the combined cycle: 214 g/km1) are now even more attractive. The AMG radiator grille with double louvre, the front apron with strong features and the new rear apron with round trims on the double exhaust outlet significantly enhance the exterior of the new C 43 models, giving them an even more expressive positioning. The cabin benefits from the fully digital driving position (optional equipment) with specific AMG indicators and the new generation of AMG steering wheels. The 6-liter V3,0 biturbo engine now develops a power of 287 kW (390 hp). In combination with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission and the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with greater impact on the rear axle, this powerful engine combines agility, dynamism and high comfort on long journeys.

“The C-Class model range is the most successful Mercedes-AMG series and has contributed substantially to the success of our company. An important milestone in this success story was the implementation of the 43 models, introduced in 2015, which have been delighting our customers around the world ever since. The high demand and the positive impact that these models have had have encouraged us to take advantage of the restyling to introduce, not only optical modifications, but also typical AMG improvements in power, efficiency and dynamism," says Tobias Moers, President of the Management of
Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

To achieve this, AMG development engineers have increased the power of the 17-litre V23 engine by 6 kW (3,0 hp), which now stands at 287 kW (390 hp). The maximum torque of 520 Nm is available from 2.500 to 5.000 rpm. This package guarantees more than convincing performance: The new C 43 4MATIC Saloon completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4,7 seconds, and the Estate in 4,8 seconds. The speed is limited electronically when reaching 250 km/h.

Sporty and eye-catching: the exterior design

The exterior of the C 43 4MATIC shows a more expressive appearance, highlighting more clearly the belonging of the new model to the family. New distinctive features are the AMG radiator grille with double louvres in matt iridium silver and the front apron with strong lines, with additional flics. The large side air intakes, integrated as Air Curtains in the front apron, help to optimally direct the air flow at the front. The element superimposed on the transverse fins and the trim strip on the front splitter are made of silver chrome.

The rear view also radiates sportiness, with round trims on the double exhaust outlet in shiny chrome. The rear apron with an Air Curtain effect on the sides and the diffuser with a much more striking aesthetic improve the aerodynamics at the rear of the vehicle. The spoiler on the trunk lid is painted in body color.

The optional AMG aesthetic package gives the vehicle an even sportier note: a more expressive front splitter, the standard spoiler, the wider inserts on the side skirts and the flics on the rear bumper are executed in high-gloss black.

Greater aerodynamic efficiency: the new AMG aerodynamic wheels

In the profile view, in addition to the highlighted side trim, the new aerodynamically optimized AMG alloy wheels attract attention. The special configuration of the aerodynamic rings on the outside and the spoke geometry perfected in the wind tunnel improve air flow around the wheels, promoting greater aerodynamic efficiency. Those responsible for development thus achieved the perfect combination of aerodynamics, weight and brake cooling, together with maximum performance and reduced fuel consumption.

For the C 43 4MATIC you can choose between two aerodynamically optimized rim designs. As standard, five-twin-spoke AMG wheels in tremolite gray and polished to a high gloss come in format 7,5 J x 18, 225/45 R 18 at the front and 8,5 J x 18, 245/40 R 18 at the rear.

Another five-twin-spoke variant is optionally available in tantalum grey, high-gloss black or matte black and high-gloss polished in size 7,5 J x 19, 225/40 R 19 at the front and 8,5 J x 19, 255/35 R. 19 behind.

Sporty character with unmistakable details: the interior design

The interior underlines the dynamic character of the new C 43 4MATIC with numerous individual details. The expressive design finds its logical continuation in the interior with materials that exude sportiness, such as leather, DINAMICA microfiber and aluminum in a high-quality finish.

The optional AMG Performance seats, with their special configuration of the sides of the seat surface and backrest, provide the best possible lateral support when driving at high speed. Optionally, the seat sides can be optimally adjusted using integrated air cushions. With their integrated headrests, the Performance seats enhance the sporty and exclusive character of the cabin. For the first time, the performance seats of the C 43 4MATIC are not only heated, but also climate controlled on three levels (in combination with leather upholstery).

The upholstery in black ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfiber with red topstitching also highlights the sporty character of the C 43 4MATIC. Like the seats, the center section of the doors and the instrument panel are also covered in ARTICO man-made leather with red topstitching. Aluminum sports pedals with black studs, black gloss lacquer trim elements combined with longitudinally ground light aluminum, black headliner and red seat belts further accentuate the sporty ambiance.

Extensive customization possibilities

The customer optionally has extensive individual configuration possibilities. The new features include open-pore anthracite oak wood trim and open-pore walnut wood trim, as well as the combination of longitudinally ground aluminum for the doors and open-pore black ash wood for the center console. Without forgetting the well-known AMG trim elements in carbon fiber/light aluminum with longitudinal grinding and matte silver fiberglass. As for the upholstery, you can optionally choose between black leather (with or without red topstitching), cranberry red/black and, as a novelty, equestrian brown/black.

The designo program offers selected combinations with diamond quilting in equestrian brown/black and platinum white pearl/black, which can be combined with the AMG Performance seats.

Interior with innovative operating and display concept

Touch panel with controller, Touch-Control buttons integrated into the steering wheel, voice input. The operating concept of the C 43 4MATIC is as versatile as it is flexible. All options aim to make driving tasks, also in this environment, as comfortable and fast as possible depending on the situation.

No less versatile are the data display possibilities on the fully digital instrument cluster (optional equipment) measuring 31,2 cm (12,3 inches) diagonal. With three AMG-specific display styles – “Classic”, “Sport” or “Supersport” – it realistically recreates the vehicle's functions.

Extensive additional information AMG

With the specific AMG menu, the driver can consult numerous additional information that makes the driving experience even sportier:

  • Warm-up: engine and gearbox oil temperature, boost pressure
  • Setup: current status of the propulsion systems, running gear, exhaust system, ESP®, exchange
  • G-Force: display of the current acceleration forces in a coordinate system and storage of maximum figures
  • Race Timer: manual stopwatch to measure lap times and color representation of the fastest and slowest lap, as well as average speed and route taken
  • Engine Data: engine torque/rated power on a bar diagram and boost pressure on a boost gauge

The current speed and engaged gear are displayed in digital format. Manual transmission mode is indicated with a yellow "M".

The displays in the central media display more realistically recreate other vehicle functions, including animated representations of driver assistance systems, vehicle systems and communication systems. The standard built-in media display has a size of 17,8 cm (7 inches) and a resolution of 960 x 540 pixels. Another variant is the 26,0 cm (10,25 inch) media display with a resolution of 1.920 x 720 pixels. It is offered as standard in combination with COMAND Online and optionally for models with Audio 20 GPS.

New generation of AMG steering wheels

An extremely sporty design, excellent grip thanks to the ergonomically contoured rim and intuitive operation are the distinctive features of the new AMG nappa leather steering wheel as standard. It also has a flat bottom section and perforation in the grip area. The shift paddles on the steering wheel are galvanized and promote sporty driving with manual gear changes. The steering wheel is optionally available in DINAMICA nappa/microfiber and in nappa leather with black glossy lacquer trim elements.

A novelty are the integrated Touch-Control buttons. With them it is possible to intuitively operate the functions of the instrument panel (on the left) and the multimedia system (on the right) using horizontal and vertical sweeping movements of the finger. As in the S-Class, the active distance assistant DISTRONIC and TEMPOMAT are adjusted using the controls on the left control panel. On the control panels on the right side there are switches to activate the voice control and the telephone, to regulate the sound playback volume, to select songs and to use other functions of the multimedia system.

Powerful and proven: the AMG 6-litre V3,0 biturbo engine

The V6 biturbo engine is distinguished by a high level of power, combined with low levels of consumption and emissions. The creators of this high power are, among others, the two largest turbochargers (maximum boost pressure: 1,1 bar). The two turbochargers are mounted next to the engine and are distinguished by their particularly spontaneous response. A visual hallmark of the AMG powertrain is the engine cover with red aluminum inserts and AMG lettering.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G gearbox with shorter transitions

The C 43 4MATIC features the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G gearbox specifically adapted by Mercedes-AMG development engineers to achieve a dynamic driving experience. Thanks to specific shift management software, very short transitions between the different gears are achieved.

Multiple direct reduction allows quick recoveries, and the double-clutch function provides an even more engaging driving experience in the “Sport” and “Sport+” driving programs. Defined interventions at ignition speed up gear changes even more compared to other modes. In all driving programs, starting is done in first gear, in order to guarantee a dynamic driving experience.

With the button located on the center console, the "Manual" mode can be selected. Your shifting strategy is based on your chosen driving program; Gear changes are made through the steering wheel paddles. Furthermore, the transmission maintains the selected gear and does not automatically shift to a higher gear if the engine speed reaches the maximum value of the limiter.

Modify vehicle characteristics with one finger: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT

The proven DYNAMIC SELECT driving programs – “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport+” and “Individual” – are available to the driver to further personalize the characteristics of the C 43 4MATIC at the touch of a button. The properties of the different programs are very diversified, with a character from efficient and comfortable to highly sporty. With this selection, important parameters are modified, such as the response of the engine, transmission, running gear and steering. Independently of the DYNAMIC SELECT driving programs, the driver can directly select manual mode by pressing the "M" key to change gears using exclusively the shift paddles on the steering wheel. In the same way it is possible to select the undercarriage regulation levels.

A fifth is added to the four programs mentioned: “Slippery Road”, marked with the symbol of a snowflake. Its moderate and uniform power delivery is specially programmed for driving on slippery, snowy or icy roads.

AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive, agile and with greater impact on the rear axle

The AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive incorporated as standard is distinguished by a torque distribution with greater incidence on the rear axle: 31% at the front and 69% at the rear. This sizing increases driving dynamics and is the key to greater lateral acceleration on the road, also improving road grip when accelerating. The all-wheel drive single-stage transfer case is constructed as an independent system, joined to the gearbox by a flange.

This configuration – which technicians call “add-on” – facilitates the variation of the torque distribution and its adaptation to each model, thus allowing a greater degree of differentiation between the different series. Thanks to its compact dimensions, permanent all-wheel drive does not impose restrictions on interior habitability or boot volume.

AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adjustable adaptive damping

The AMG RIDE CONTROL mechanical suspension suspension with electronically controlled adjustable damping system offers the occupants of the C 43 4MATIC sporty dynamics and the brand's characteristic comfort for long journeys. The basis for this is the four-link front axle and the multi-link rear axle. AMG-specific kinematic and elastokinematic characteristics with newly developed components result in high wheel camber rigidity when cornering at high speed. The axial integration of the brakes on the front axle promotes agile and precise driving behavior.

The adjustable adaptive damping system is standard. This system with electronic regulation and completely automatic operation progressively adapts the damping on each wheel depending on the situation. This improves driving safety and rolling comfort. The damping is adjusted individually for each wheel depending on the driving style, road conditions and the setting chosen for the running gear. The ideal operating point is determined from numerous pieces of information, such as acceleration or driving speed. The driver selects the three characteristic damping diagrams "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport+" using a button on the center console, thus adjusting the driving sensation to his particular preferences, from comfortable to sportily stiff.

Direct and unambiguous confirmation of contact with the road: the AMG parametric steering

The electromechanical parametric steering works with variable ratio. This equipment convinces with a precise and authentic response. When driving at high speed, the power steering assistance decreases, which increases progressively at low speeds. This requires relatively little force to operate the steering wheel at low speeds and maintains ideal control over the vehicle at higher speeds. Power steering assistance depends on the suspension setting chosen. In "Sport" mode, the driver receives more direct feedback about the grip of the wheels on the road.

Data analyst for racing circuits: AMG TRACK PACE

AMG TRACK PACE, the virtual racing engineer for data recording on closed circuits, offers the user expanded and more precise functions. TRACK PACE is optionally available as a component of the COMAND Online infotainment system.

If this function is activated, the system records a series of vehicle-specific data (e.g. speed, acceleration) ten times per second during the journey. To this we must add the times per lap and per sector, as well as the difference in each case with respect to the reference time. Some indicator elements light up in green or red, so the driver can easily recognize, without having to fix his eyes to read the figures, whether or not his performance exceeds the best time recorded.

After completing fast laps on the circuit, the driver's skill can be analyzed based on the data collected, in order to improve. The system also allows you to register and memorize various acceleration and deceleration levels (e.g., 0-100 km/h, ¼ mile, 100-0 km/h). Thanks to a newly developed algorithm that determines the vehicle's position as accurately as possible, TRACK PACE even recognizes when you leave the route or take a shortcut. Apart from the GPS data, the sensors installed in the vehicle (acceleration, gyroscope, steering angle of the wheels, number of wheel revolutions) are used for this purpose.

The data is displayed in the multimedia display, the instrument cluster and the Head-Up-Display. Famous racing circuits, such as the Nürburgring, are pre-programmed.

It is also possible to register other own circuit profiles. The cartographic representation can be changed from 2D to 3D and updated online. For the rest, it is possible to connect an iPhone App via WiFi. With it, customers can share their experiences and results with other drivers of AMG vehicles via Facebook, YouTube or in the AMG Private Lounge.

Well-being cure on long journeys: ENERGIZING comfort control

The optional ENERGIZING comfort control is also available for the new C 43 4MATIC. This system interconnects various comfort systems in the vehicle and makes precise use of the air conditioning and seat functions (heating, ventilation), as well as lighting and music playback equipment. Depending on the mood or preferences of the customer, a special wellness adjustment is assumed, which at the same time improves the performance capacity of the occupants.

Summary of technical data

  Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Saloon Mercedes AMG C 43 4MATIC

Summer

Motor 6 liter V3,0 with two turbochargers 6 liter V3,0 with two turbochargers
Displacement 2.996 cm3 2.996 cm3
Power 287 kW (390 hp) at 6.100 rpm 287 kW (390 hp) at 6.100 rpm
maximum torque 520 Nm at 2.500-5.000 rpm 520 Nm at 2.500-5.000 rpm
Propulsion AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with torque distribution with greater incidence on the rear axle AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with torque distribution with greater incidence on the rear axle
Change AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed
mixed consumption
made out of fuel
 

9,3-9,1 l / 100 km *

 

9,6-9,4 l / 100 km *

CO emissions2 in the mixed cycle 213-209g/km* 220-214g/km*
Acceleration 0-100km/h 4,7 s 4,8 s
Maximum speed 250 km / h ** 250 km / h **

* The indicated values ​​(provisional data) have been determined according to the prescribed measurement procedure. These are NEDC CO values2 according to article 2, no. 1 of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. Fuel consumption has been calculated based on these values.
** limited electronically
[1] The indicated values ​​(provisional data) have been determined according to the prescribed measurement procedure. These are the NEDC CO2 values ​​according to Article 2, No. 1 of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. Fuel consumption has been calculated based on these values.

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