The automobile industry is gradually shifting towards downsizing to improve engine efficiency and fuel economy. Thirsty, angry large displacement motors are being replaced by smaller, more efficient engines thanks to turbocharging. Mercedes joined the bandwagon with the introduction of the 2.0-litre turbocharged AMG motor in its “more affordable” cars like the A 45, CLA 45 and GLA 45 AMG – the latter two are currently being sold in India as well.
The company is now looking to introduce its ‘AMG 43’ series here as well. In response to a question by Autocar India as to whether the AMG 43 series will be a re-branding exercise, the company’s head honcho Roland S Folger said, “No, it’s not just a simple re-branding, but it’s also the expansion of the AMG range. It’s a step into the AMG world for customers, especially in countries like India, where you don’t get to experience the car on a racetrack. And that’s where all the elements that make an AMG an AMG come into the picture, without the top-speed of 250kph coming into the picture.”
Starting with the India launch of the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43, the company hopes to give a taste of the performance capabilities of its AMG divisions to customers who desire to possess a powerful street car rather than a performance-oriented machine. The SLC 43 is the global replacement for the SLK 55 AMG which was powered by a naturally aspirated 5.5-litre V8 engine. The new 3.0-litre bi-turbo V6 petrol engine produces 367hp and 520Nm of torque, mated to 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox. It also gets AMG-developed front and rear axles, engine mounts and rear differential.
In the near future, the German carmaker is also likely to introduce the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 as well as the C 43 too, in the country, extending its product line for its customers here.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Dipan Sur
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
