For each model year, apart from preparing and updating all regular models in its range, Mercedes-Benz must also find ways to refresh and optimize the high-performance AMG versions of their most popular cars. For the 2023 model year, one of the most notable changes Mercedes-AMG added to its lineup comes in the form of smaller engine sizes, and we can expect AMG’s former V8s to feature new V6s, meaning former V6s will be reduced to inline four-cylinder engines.
While this isn’t good news by any means, the upside is that smaller engines don’t always translate into less power, and that’s exactly the case when it comes to the recently announced 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43.
while it previous iteration sported a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6, the latest model will be mated to a 2.0-litre four-cylinder, but somehow Mercedes worked its German magic and managed to make this significantly smaller engine more powerful than its predecessor. This is why it is still a nice and even quite luxurious daily driver for its price.
Inside the 2023 C43 AMG: sporty luxury
Inside the cabin of the C43s you’ll find a setup similar to the latest C300, featuring a central 12.3-inch vertical touchscreen featuring Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment system and a fully customizable driver display behind the wheel, just like the norm on modern Mercedes models. Standard and optional technology come in the form of heated and ventilated seats, memory settings for seats, door mirrors, steering wheel and headrests, as well as a heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof and two-zone climate control.
There are a few sporty options to brighten up the interior of the C43s, such as carbon fiber trim, performance sports seats, a sports steering wheel and AMG badging. Outside of the 2023 C43, you’ll also find plenty of sporty touches, most notably AMG’s exclusive and beautiful Panamericana grille, a quad exhaust and rear diffuser arrangement, as well as a pair of air intakes, a carbon fiber spoiler and sporty AMG wheels. Unfortunately, the 2023 C43 will not be sold in convertible or coupé versions.
The mechanical wizardry of the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43s
We’ve already mentioned that the latest C43 AMG is mated to a small 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, but we’ve also mentioned that it has more power than before. It may not sound as good as the previous V6, but the 2023 C43 makes 402 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. These figures are achieved through the use of an electrically assisted turbocharger, which uses a small motor that helps the turbine rotate at a speed of up to 170,000 rpm. The power build-up is linear and not at all laggy thanks to the electric turbo, and the C43 can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, according to AMG itself, although in reality that number is probably even lower.
In terms of handling characteristics, the 2023 C43 is comfortably capable. The steering is precise, especially with active rear steering, and the grip is fantastic too thanks to Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, making for a car that can be thrown around corners effortlessly. You can easily switch between multiple driving modes and there’s even a dedicated AMG button to quickly jump into the car’s sportiest settings. Adaptive dampers tighten or loosen the suspension depending on the selected driving mode, making the C43 comfortable when needed and sporty when needed.
To summarise, the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 still manages to stay true to its AMG pedigree, offering tantalizing performance packed with a luxurious and technical interior. It may not have as much personality as its predecessor, but if you want a fun, sporty luxury car at a reasonable price then you should definitely consider the C43.
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