By: Joshua Lee
April 19, 2024
The fight to reduce climate change has been stronger than ever, as automakers and governments around the world are finding ways to strive for a cleaner future. Automakers’ compromise is to downsize their larger engines to meet stricter emissions regulations and offer electrification to their existing models. Does that mean cars will not be as fun? Is this give-and-take unfair?
Mercedes-AMG has their own solution when it comes to their performance models, and we’re excited to see what the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 4Matic when we had it for the week. There is no longer a V6 under the hood, as Mercedes decided to replace it with a mild hybrid, 2.0L turbocharged, four-cylinder engine. While some might think this is appalling, the new C43 now makes 402 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. From what they’ve learned and developed over at F1, the C43 is the first vehicle with an electric-assisted turbocharger that can operate at speeds up to 175,000 RPM and provide an additional 13 horsepower boost through the belt-driven start generator. The 48-volt mild hybrid system, paired with a nine-speed MCT automatic transmission, reduces turbo lag and enhances efficiency.
The C43 is packed with AMG performance features such as a rear biased 4Matic all-wheel drive system, five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes, three adaptive damping modes, and standard rear-axle steering. The driver can enjoy the best driving experience with all these features. It works well, and it’s a pleasure seeing the C43 perform as a daily driver. There are some quirks, as we found the start/stop function to cut in and out constantly and the transmission to be a little slow to shift at lower speeds. The steering is very responsive, and the vehicle is easy to drive on the highway. Fitted on our tester is the AMG Driver’s Package, which increases the top speed to 265 km/h, AMG Real Performance Sound, which feeds actual engine sound into the cabin, 19-inch AMG 5-Twin-Spoke wheels, and an AMG Performance Steering Wheel in Nappa leather and DINAMICA microfibre.
The fifth generation C-Class looks great, as the body lines are cleaner than the previous generation while maintaining an elegant but athletic stance. A vertical-bar AMG grille, aggressive bumpers, rear lip spoiler, and four round tailpipes complete the C43’s look. Our tester is fitted with the optional DIGITAL LIGHT package, which adapts the headlights in real time while working with the car’s camera, sensors, and navigation to provide better visibility and safety. This also dims some of the high beams when it detects oncoming vehicles, providing better illumination in front without disturbing the vehicle in front of you.
Inside the C43, you get a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display and an 11.9-inch central touchscreen with a Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system. We found that it took a little time to get used to all the tech as the steering wheel has touch sensitive controls to configure the driver’s display, but once everything was set up, there was no trouble operating the system while on the road. A nine-inch heads-up display provides good graphics and is clear to read. We also really like the MBUX augmented video when using navigation, as it uses a live video feed from the front camera and superimposes guiding arrows and other information, so we never miss a turn. Heated front sport seats, a heated steering wheel, 64-colour LED ambient lighting, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a panoramic sunroof are standard.
The optional Intelligent Drive Package on the C43 adds a suite of active driver-assistance features and adaptive cruise control that operates in stop-and-go traffic, changes lanes on the highway, and can slow down in curves, roundabouts, or highway interchanges when using the navigation system.
Mercedes-AMG rates the C43’s fuel economy as 12.0L/100KM city, 9.0L/100KM highway, for a combined 10.5L/100KM. We’ve achieved 10.8L/100KM during our week-long test.
At the time of testing, the Mercedes-AMG C43 starts at $80,900. When you add the Premium Plus package, AMG Driver’s package, Intelligent Drive package, and DIGITAL LIGHT package, the C43 racks up to $91,700 before taxes and delivery.
Does the C43 deserve the AMG badge? There’s little to discredit the new four-banger sport performance sedan. It handles really well, and we like how configurable the C43 is to suit our different driving needs. It’s comfortable when you want it to be and incredibly aggressive when you crave the power. We’re impressed that even the C-Class has a similar S-Class cabin with its tech. Although it is a pricey vehicle, the C43 is certainly deserving of being called an AMG and doesn’t compromise on fun, even though it is two cylinders smaller.
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