Mercedes-AMG has upgraded their high-performance C43 model, with new technologies, and more grunt.
Immediately noticeable is the new front end and twin-louvred grill – as seen on the C63, while at the rear, it now gets a sportier diffuser and polished quad pipes. It also gets Mercedes-Benz's new LED headlights and taillights, as well as the new wheel options.
The C43 is now available with a 31.2cm digital instrument cluster, with three AMG-specific display modes. And unlike the new MBUX infotainment screen seen in the recently unveiled W177 A-Class, the C-Class has its integrated into its existing cowled dash layout, giving a somewhat sportier look. There’s also a larger 26cm display for the COMAND system, and a new sportier steering wheel.
As before, it features an AMG-tuned 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system (with a 69-percent rear bias), that’s paired with a 9-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. The biggest talking point though, is that its 3.0-litre V6 biturbo motor now produces 287kw up from 270kw, whilst peak torque remains the same at 520nm. 0-100kph comes up in 4.7 seconds, according to claims, while the top speed is limited to 250kph.
The new Mercedes-AMG C43 4MATIC is expected to debut today at the Geneva International Motor Show. The facelifted C-Class range is due to go on sale in South Africa around mid-year, with the C43 following at a later stage.
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-AMG A Class and the Mercedes-AMG G Class.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mercedes-AMG C43 cost in South Africa?
The facelifted Mercedes-AMG C43 4MATIC is expected to start around R1,200,000 when it arrives in South Africa later this year, positioning it as a premium performance sedan with serious AMG credentials.
Q: How much power does the new C43 have?
The updated C43 packs 287kW from its 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine, up from the previous 270kW, while torque stays at 520Nm, delivering 0-100kph in 4.7 seconds.
Q: Is the Mercedes-AMG C43 worth buying over the C63?
The C43 offers 90% of the C63's thrills at around R400,000 less, making it the sweet spot for buyers who want AMG performance without the full-fat price tag and fuel consumption.
Q: What are the main changes in the facelifted C43?
The updated C43 gets a sportier front end with twin-louvred grille, new LED lights, quad exhaust pipes, a 31.2cm digital cluster with AMG display modes, and crucially, 17kW more power than before.
Q: When will the new C43 be available in South Africa?
Mercedes-AMG expects the facelifted C43 to arrive in South Africa sometime after mid-2019, following the launch of the regular C-Class facelift range.
Should You Buy It?
The best AMG gateway drug under R1,300,000 in SA is definitely this facelifted C43. With 287kW, proper AMG styling, and that addictive biturbo soundtrack, it delivers serious performance thrills without the eye-watering running costs of the full-fat C63. Yes, you should absolutely consider it if you want a daily driver that can embarrass sports cars at the traffic lights, but maybe wait for the first batch to hit the used market if you're budget-conscious. The C43 strikes the perfect balance between sensible and silly, making it the ideal choice for enthusiasts who still need to explain their car purchase to their spouse.
