Overall Rating
Updated on: August 5, 2020
Automotive Journalist
Filling the void that exists between the gorgeous Mercedes-Benz C300 and the bonkers Mercedes-AMG C63, the Mercedes-AMG C43 offers superlative performance at a sensible cost. It's accessible as a sedan, roadster, or convertible with typical AMG styling cues. You will admire the classical C class hallmarks such as striking exterior design and well-laid interior and surprisingly agile chassis. Owners can choose between three different drive modes.
The enthusiastic twin-turbo V-6 motor is the star of the C43 appeal and 9-speed automatic transmission shifts butter smooth. Updates have brought all manner of tech and niggles into the car. The ride is harsh and the suspension feels as if it channels each street undulation and surface defect straightforwardly to the seats and up the spines of the driver and passengers.
Superior driving dynamics
Comfortable interior
Three body styles Available
Harsh ride
Low on cargo volume
Pricey Options
Burmester sound system now included in the base price
64-color ambient lighting system is also standard
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Features
Engine and Performance
Fuel Economy
Interior
Exterior
Final Verdict
8.4
OVERALL RATING
Overall Rating
Filling the void that exists between the gorgeous Mercedes-Benz C300 and the bonkers Mercedes-AMG C63, the Mercedes-AMG C43 offers superlative performance at a sensible cost. It's accessible as a sedan, roadster, or convertible with typical AMG styling cues.
You will admire the classical C class hallmarks such as striking exterior design and well-laid interior and surprisingly agile chassis. Owners can choose between three different drive modes.
7.1/10
Features
9.0/10
Engine and Performance
7.0/10
Fuel Economy
9.0/10
Interior
9.0/10
Exterior
8.8/10
Final Verdict
Only a single trim for the AMG sedan is available. Nonetheless, there are several packages available for customizing the ride as per one’s requirements. Bid for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 Sedan starts from $55,250. In addition to Hands-Free Access and Keyless-Go, the small luxury car packs a whole new bunch of perks and feats.
Trims | AMG C43 |
---|---|
MSRP | $55,950 |
Features | 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission |
7" COMAND display screen | |
DYNAMIC SELECT | |
All-Season Tires | |
ECO Start/Stop | |
Power sunroof and extendable sun visors | |
KEYLESS START | |
Rearview camera | |
Wood trim with analogue clock | |
FrontBass 5-speaker Audio System | |
Bluetooth technology | |
40/20/40-split-folding rear seats | |
ATTENTION ASSIST | |
Active Brake Assist |
Some of the notable features of the small luxury coupe include dual-zone automatic climate control and 18-inch AMG 5-spoke w/black accents. Also, the ride features AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive for superb handling and control. The ride also comes with the AMG Sport Exhaust System to make the ride even better.
Also, read- Mercedes-Benz AMG C 43: Complete Buyers Guide
Practicality has an edge over performance at some point in life, the base price of $55,000 of the C43 AMG sedan variant undercuts the cabriolet and coupe sibling’s by $3500 and $8400 respectively.
Premium package for $7400 includes convenience items such as an 8.4-inch touchscreen with navigation, perfumed interior, illuminated doorsills and some addition of safety features.
The 2020 C43's twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V-6 is a hidden gem. Pure driving pleasure and torque-rich, the 384-hp engine is clubbed with a TCT nine-speed automatic transmission that changes its gears with both speed and accuracy.
The C43 doles out 384 lb-ft of torque and transfers 69 per cent to the rear and 31 per cent to the front axle through 4MATIC all-wheel-drive so you can experience sports car properties in every situation.
An upcoming generation has been spotted testing which will replace the AMG C 43 and will be called the AMG C 53. A new 2.0-litre four-cylinder powertrain will be used and the 3.0 litre V6 will be discontinued.
Mercedes-AMG engineers have tuned gearbox, particularly for a surreal driving experience. This has a model-specific programming application to accomplish short shift times.
The multiple downshifts permits more unconstrained blasts of speed, while the double-declutching function in "Sport" and "Sport+" drive programs makes for a considerably more enthusiastic drive.
Models |
Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG |
Audi S4 |
Lexus GS 300 |
Jaguar XF 25t Premium |
Genesis G80 3.8 |
Infiniti Q70 3.7LUXE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$55,950 |
$50,200 |
$47,635 |
$50,960 |
$43,045 |
$51,295 |
Engine |
Twin Turbo V-6, 3.0 L |
Intercooled Turbo 3.0L V-6 |
2.0L i4 |
2.0L i4 |
3.8L V6 |
3.7L V6 |
Transmission |
9-Speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT Automatic |
8-Speed Automatic Tiptronic |
8 Speed automatic |
8 Speed automatic |
8 Speed automatic |
7 Speed automatic |
Horsepower |
384 hp @ 2500 rpm |
349 hp @5400 rpm |
241 hp@ 5800rpm |
247 hp@ 5500rpm |
311 hp@ 6000rpm |
330 hp@ 7000rpm |
Torque |
385 lb-ft @ 6100 rpm |
369 lb-ft @ 1370 rpm |
258 ft-lbs@ 1650 rpm |
269 ft-lbs@ 1200rpm |
293 ft-lbs@ 5000rpm |
270 ft-lbs@ 5200rpm |
The Audi S4 dishes out similar horsepower as the C 43 AMG and the power delivery is linear. The rest of the rivals are far behind in terms of horsepower and the Lexus produces lowest among the lot.
Acceleration is brisk and C43 AMG takes 4.1 seconds to dash from 0 to 60 miles an hour and 13.2 seconds to pass the quarter-mile flag. The top speed is limited to 155 miles an hour with the whisk four-wheel-drive system, feels faster than the figure suggests.
Models |
Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG |
Audi S4 |
Lexus GS 300 |
Jaguar XF 25t Premium |
Genesis G80 3.8 |
Infiniti Q70 3.7LUXE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
4.1 sec |
4.3 sec |
7 sec |
5 sec |
6.3 sec |
5.6 sec |
Quarter mile |
13.2 |
12.8 sec |
17.6 sec |
13.5 sec |
14.6 sec |
14.2 sec |
Engine |
3.0L V6 |
3.0L V6 |
2.0L i4 |
2.0L i4 |
3.8L V6 |
3.7L V6 |
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year) |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
6.3 |
8.9 |
8.4 |
The American muscle cars with huge horsepower under their bonnets are purebred to decimate the drag strip and the Merc has a tough time keeping up. The C43 makes it first to 60 in 4.1 seconds with the Audi S4 and Jaguar XF close at its wedgies, next followed by the Infiniti. However, the variation is too meager to weigh in real life.
The entire C-Class from Mercedes-Benz is about comfort and safety. Likewise, the C43 combines easy steering with powerful braking. Roaming crowded city streets are just as comfortable as cruising on the highways.
The available air suspension system makes everything comfortable as a sweet summer breeze for the passengers as well as the driver. The elite all-wheel-drive created by Mercedes-AMG combines optimum traction, typical AMG driving dynamics in most extreme driving situations.
With the established DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport+" and "Individual", attributes of the C 43 4MATIC+ can be tweaked at the tap of a finger. This adjusts key parameters, for example, the reaction of the motor, transmission, suspension, and steering. AMG has quickened the steering application but just up to the mark.
The AMG ride control suspension with adaptive three-step continuously damping enables optimal spread between pleasant comfort and exceptionally lively setup. It gives you unrivaled performance in everyday driving and on the race track.
As performance-oriented as the AMG C43 seems to be, the forfeit in ride comfort is irrelevant. Truly, you'll feel more flaws in the street surface, however not to any objectionable level that too on rougher asphalt
The stopping prowess is held by Brembo six-piston calipers, the performance is not overly spectacular but it is acceptable. The bite is enough to decrease the speed on corners and come out it easily. AMG C43 has the lowest curb weight among the rivals.
Not impressive, but better than what other cars in the competition has to offer. The Genesis G 80 is the bulkiest coupe in the league with a total curb weight of 4195 lbs.
Model |
Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG |
Audi S4 |
Lexus GS 300 |
Jaguar XF 25t Premium |
Genesis G80 3.8 |
Infiniti Q70 3.7LUXE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Brake Front (in.) |
14.2 |
14.2 |
13.1 |
12.8 |
13.6 |
12.6 |
Brake Rear (in.) |
13.8 |
13 |
13.5 |
12.8 |
12.4 |
12.1 |
Curb Weight (lbs.) |
3825 |
3858 |
3805 |
3590 |
4195 |
3876 |
70-0 MPH (ft.) |
- |
- |
174 |
170 |
167 |
167 |
In contrast to the opposition, the Audi S4 has the most extensive discs - 14.2 upfront and 13 at the back. Most of the sedans have similar-sized brakes, except for the Infiniti, with 12.6-inch discs.
The sedan offers a great, combined fuel economy. While on the city roads the small luxury car delivers 19 mpg, it offers 27 mpg in highway conditions. The combined fuel economy offered by the sedan is 22 mpg. This is slightly better than that offered by the Infiniti Q70 which offers 21 mpg combined.
Model |
Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG |
Audi S4 |
Lexus GS 300 |
Jaguar XF 25t Premium |
Genesis G80 3.8 |
Infiniti Q70 3.7LUXE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (city) |
19 |
21 |
22 |
25 |
19 |
18 |
MPG (highway) |
27 |
30 |
32 |
34 |
27 |
25 |
MPG (combined) |
22 |
24 |
26 |
28 |
22 |
21 |
Tank Capacity (gal) |
17.4 |
15.3 |
17.4 |
19.5 |
20.3 |
20.0 |
In terms of combined fuel economy, Audi S4 Premium and BMW Jaguar XF are better. These small-size luxury cars offer 24 mpg and 25 mpg of combined fuel economy, respectively.
The cabin emphasizes sportiness and elegance, the C43 highlights a contemporary dashboard outline with a streaming focus stack that shrouds profound storage with a couple of cup holders. Generally, without buttons, the C43's inside stack is tied down by a line of costly looking knurled rocker switches for working the standard dual-zone automatic climate control.
New AMG steering wheel lined with fine Nappa leather houses touch-control buttons which make the multimedia experience better. The speedometer, tachometer, and measure bunch screen all element clear typography for simple perception, head-up display transforms the windscreen into the digital cockpit so you can focus on the road.
Model |
Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG |
Audi S4 |
Lexus GS 300 |
Jaguar XF 25t Premium |
Genesis G80 3.8 |
Infiniti Q70 3.7LUXE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Passenger capacity |
4 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
40.9/55.3/41.7 |
38.9/55.9/41.3 |
38.0/57.3/42.3 |
37.5/NA/NA |
41.1/58.3/45.7 |
39.1/58.4/44.4 |
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
37.1/55/35.2 |
37.4/54.5/35.7 |
37.8/55.7/36.8 |
38.2/NA/NA |
38.2/57.1/35.0 |
37.7/56.7/36.2 |
All the AMG C 43s element an inside that is refined and appealing. The AMG performance leather seats with attractive red sewing and vital arrangement high tech material set the C 43 apart from its standard C-Class brethren.
The front and rear seats in the AMG C 63 are a bit cramped if compared to Audi S4 and Jaguar XF sedan. The space distribution in both rivals is better than the former.
Interior Features
For now, the C43 still comes with the COMAND infotainment system and MBUX will come later in the future as an update. Inside, it comes with a standard 8.4-inch infotainment screen which is easy to use and offers connectivity via Bluetooth, dual USB ports and HD Radio system.
Navigation is made simpler and effectual with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A built-in Wi-Fi hotspot is also available.
The cargo volume of the C43 AMG isn’t that great but well suited to carry an average amount of luggage. The rear seats can be folded down to accommodate more Carry-On Luggage
Model |
Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG |
Audi S4 |
Lexus GS 300 |
Jaguar XF 25t Premium |
Genesis G80 3.8 |
Infiniti Q70 3.7LUXE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cargo Volume (ft.3) |
12.6 |
13 |
14.3 |
17.8 |
15.3 |
14.9 |
The Audi S4 sedan and Lexus GS offers similar cargo space as the AMG C43 sedan. The cargo capacity is much compromised in the cabriolet variant of the Mercedes-Benz.
Looking like a smaller C63, the AMG C43 flaunts aggressive front and rear that portrays its sporty intentions. The twin-louvered AMG radiator grille and body integrated diffusers look purposeful, the round twin exhaust tailpipes and distinctive rear fascia are unmistakably AMG.
Minute styling elements like a decklid spoiler and more extensive side skirts give the C43's AMG-tuned swoopy style an additional feeling of dynamism. If asked about the acoustic experience, the variably adjustable exhaust flap lets you change the symphony at the push of a button. Aerodynamically optimized alloy wheels enhance the sporty appeal.
Model |
Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG |
Audi S4 |
Lexus GS 300 sedan |
Jaguar XF 25t Premium |
Genesis G80 3.8 |
Infiniti Q70 3.7LUXE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Curb weight (lbs.) |
3825 |
3858 |
3805 |
3590 |
4195 |
3876 |
Length(in) |
185 |
186.8 |
192.1 |
195.0 |
196.5 |
196.1 |
Width(in) |
71.3 |
72.5 |
72.4 |
78.2 |
74.4 |
72.6 |
Height(in) |
56.3 |
55.3 |
57.3 |
57.4 |
58.3 |
59.1 |
Ground clearance (in) |
3.5 |
- |
5.1 |
4.1 |
5.3 |
6.0 |
Wheelbase (in) |
111.8 |
111.2 |
112.2 |
116.5 |
118.5 |
114.2 |
Track width (in) F/R |
63.1/61.3 |
61.6/60.9 |
62/62.6 |
61.4/61.8 |
64.1/65.3 |
62/61.6 |
The dimensions of all the sedans are somewhat similar and portraying sporty intentions in their charisma. Genesis G80 is heaviest in the segment while the AMG C63 is the lightest. The ground clearance and wheelbase are also equivalent.
Exterior Features
The 2020 C43 sedan comes with strong security and reliability features. Collision prevention assist plus, blind spot assist, pre-safe and 9 airbags are some of them. Moreover, the small luxury car flaunts an adaptive braking technology.
All in all, the luxury car doesn’t offer high-end safety and reliability features. However, in contrast with performance, the available security features are some of the best available.
Safety and Reliability
Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 Vs Audi S4
Audi has an all-new S4 built on the latest generation A4, which will probably make this a three-way fight royale. To start with Audi S4 is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged V-6 that dishes out 354 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to an 8 speed ZF sourced automatic transmission.
Audi separates itself from whatever remains of the class with a more aggressive outside and a minimalistic inside, featuring the likelihood that aesthetics might be the integral factor among buying decisions. While Benz sharpens its AMG C43 model, Audi continues the tradition of bringing the most pleasant and understated sedan.
Mercedes-AMG C43 vs Jaguar XF
The Jaguar XF, a great looking sedan with an economical engine, hits the perfect balance between practicality and performance. Not only does it have the biggest passenger and cargo capacity, but it also doesn't need to cut its sporty character in the process.
However, unlike the AMG, neither does it growl like a beast, nor has it the power to match one. Furthermore, in terms of driving feel, XF is a treat, but the AMG is a feast.
Midrange Luxury is a segment flooded with lots of options. Not every person needs outrageous performance, but rather many aims for more than the conventional. The C 43 AMG straddles this space well with attractive price tag and performance.
The C43, and as an AMG-badged car that works throughout the entire year and in pretty much any circumstance you toss at it. By being quick and agile when the state of mind takes, yet calm and refined when it doesn't, the Mercedes-AMG C43 is apparently the choice of the C-Class lineup.