The Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe Is Your V6 Budget C63
AMG does a twin-turbo V6 C-Class Coupé with 362 hp, all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic for those who can't afford a V8 C63. The new C43 Coupe will be followed by a whole series of "43" AMG models, because AMG is now the new BMW M.
Mercedes wants to make its performance lineup more attainable and appealing for a broader customer base, so the introduction of the "43" Series shouldn't come as a surprise. But since downsizing is so in right now, so should forget the fact that back in the days of the first-generation C-Class, the original C43 replaced the C36 AMG, throwing out six supercharged cylinders for a very loud naturally-aspirated V8.
In 2016, you get two turbos attached to a 3.0-liter V6 instead, which produces 362 horsepower between 5500-6000 RPM, and 384 lb-ft of torque between 2000-4200 RPM thanks to higher boost pressures and Mercedes' clever cylinder liner coating.
It's no C63, but will still get you to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds before topping out at a limited 155 mph, and fuel economy should be better too.
Mercedes' 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission got recalibrated to give you faster shift times in "Eco" and "Comfort" modes as well, and it will even do double-declutching when shifting down in "Sport Plus" mode.
4Matic all-wheel drive comes as standard, with a rear-biased torque distribution of 31 to 69 percent front to rear. You get five driving modes including manual and three settings for the ESP.
The C43 also packs three stage adaptive variable damping, with new steering knuckles and load-bearing joints on the spring link at the front resulting in negative camber, and pretty much exactly the C63's settings as the rear. The brakes are monstrous internally ventilated compound discs with a diameter of 14.2" and 12.6". They fit under 18” black alloys.
Styling wise, you know what to expect. Black mirror housings, waistline trim and window frames as well as wheels, which can also grow to 19-inches.
Inside, it's artificial leather a microfibers, with red stitchings and AMG logos all over the place. If you're careful enough, you can spec it to be a very nice interior indeed.
And don't worry. Nobody will realize it's not a C63.
Photo credit: Mercedes-Benz
Contact the author at mate@jalopnik.com.