All-new Mercedes-AMG C43 unveiled; gets mild hybrid tech

Mercedes-AMG has taken the covers off its new C43, and it has received comprehensive performance updates as well as a new hybrid powertrain. Based on the W206 C-class, the AMG C43 now features sporty styling tweaks on the exterior, along with AMG-specific interior updates.

In order to differentiate the C43 from the standard C-Class sedan, Mercedes has equipped it with traditional AMG styling touches. These include the Panamericana grille with vertical slats, adaptive LED headlights with a single Daytime Running Lamp, large air intakes on the front bumper with black accents and gloss-black wing mirrors.

 

The side profile remains largely similar, apart from the new ‘Turbo Electrified’ badges, beefier side sills and standard 18-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, the AMG C43 now gets quad tailpipes and a different rear bumper with a diffuser for improved aerodynamics.
 

The biggest update on the new AMG C43 is the introduction of the new 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine with an electric turbocharger. Codenamed the M139, the hybrid powertrain replaces the old turbocharged 362hp, 3.0-litre V6 engine used by earlier C43 models. Thanks to the 48V mild-hybrid system, the new engine produces 402hp and 500Nm of torque, with an additional 13hp via a boost function. This has been mated to a nine-speed automatic gearbox with ‘Race Start’ functionality that sends power to all four wheels via the 4Matic drive system.

 

To compensate for the improved performance from the new powertrain, Mercedes-AMG has heavily reworked the chassis and added a revised front axle. Additionally, the C43 gets the AMG Ride Control suspension with double wishbones at the front, and adaptive dampers and multi-links at the rear. Braking performance has also been improved thanks to the new 370mm steel discs with four-piston calipers up front and 320mm steel discs with single-piston floating calipers at the rear. The car also gets a modified exhaust for the characteristic AMG soundtrack for both the sedan and the estate.
 

On the inside, the AMG C43 gets AMG-specific digital graphics for the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and the 11.9-inch touchscreen system. Other AMG-specific updates include a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, sports seats, pedals and red seat belts.
 

The German manufacturer recently unveiled the Edition 55 versions of the AMG A35 and CLA35, along with its flagship EQS electric SUV for global markets. Mercedes-Benz is currently working on launching the new C-class in India on May 10 that will rival the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Volvo S60 and Jaguar XE. The brand also introduced the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class in India earlier this year.