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Mercedes-AMG C43 Specifications & Features
This brand-new 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 sports sedan was built by the geniuses behind Mercedes’ AMG tuning division using the next-generation C-class. This time around, the C43 manages to make do with two fewer cylinders and one less liter of engine displacement—but not less power—as AMG has switched out the outgoing model’s 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, which produced 385 horsepower, for a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 402 horsepower. The C43 is equipped with a wide range of performance-enhancing technology, such as rear-wheel steering and variable dampers for the sporty suspension. The C43’s interior resembles that of the brand-new C300 from Benz, but it looks like it came straight out of a racing academy rather than a finishing school. The dashboard is mostly covered in carbon-fiber trim, with faux leather and contrasting stitching on the remaining areas.
What’s New?
For the 2023 model year, the C43 receives an extensive redesign. We anticipate the release of a C63 model with even more power, and we already know that it will be equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo-four. The Mercedes-Benz C300’s interior is mimicked by the C43, but with a sportier feel thanks to racier materials like the available carbon fiber trim. A sport steering wheel with a flat bottom, a leather and suede wrap, and the AMG insignia in the bottom spoke are also included with the C43. A panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, four-zone automatic temperature control, and noise-insulating window glass are further options. Performance seats are also offered.
Mercedes-AMG C43 Engine, Power, Performance & Acceleration
While the outgoing model was motivated more than adequately by a 385-hp, 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, the 2023 C43 comes with a downsized turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four. Not to worry: this new engine’s power is anything but downsized, as it makes a healthy 402 horsepower and is assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system which can temporarily contribute up to 13 more ponies at lower rpm. The new engine’s turbocharger setup is partially derived from the company’s F1 racing-engine tech. The turbocharger incorporates an auxiliary electric motor to spin up the compressor quicker, which in turn reduces turbo lag.
A nine-speed automatic is standard—sorry to those who were hoping for a manual—and so is all-wheel drive, a rear-wheel steering system, and adaptive dampers. Acceleration is brisk and during the test drive, we were impressed with the four-cylinder punch and lack of turbo lag. We estimate it should hit 60 mph in about 4.0 seconds. The C43’s handling is as spry as expected and the cornering grip is ample. The tradeoff for that level of performance is a ride that’s firm in even the softest drive mode setting.
Mercedes-AMG Mileage
| 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 Mileage | City | Highway |
| C43 Sedan | 19 mpg | 28 mpg |
The EPA hasn’t yet disclosed the C43 sedan’s fuel economy numbers. However, despite the smaller engine, we don’t anticipate seeing much difference from the outgoing model’s 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway ratings.
Dimensions & Space
| 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 Dimensions | |
| Length | 188.6 in |
| Width | 71.8 in |
| Height | 57.1 in |
| Wheelbase | 112.8 in |
| Cargo Volume | 12 ft3 |
| Airbags | 6 Airbags |
Each variant includes a sizable 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that is flush with the center console and canted slightly towards the driver. The system runs the most recent MBUX software interface and has a 12.3-inch digital gauge display that may be voice-activated. Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay ought to be required for wireless communication. A premium Burmester music system, a wireless phone charging pad, a head-up display, and in-dash navigation are all options.
Pricing
| 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 Trims | Price (USD) |
| Premium Sedan | $61,050 |
| Coupe | $63,650 |
| Pinnacle Sedan | $63,750 |
| Cabriolet | $70,300 |
Unfortunately, we don’t anticipate seeing coupe and convertible versions of the C43 this time around, while the coupe and convertible from the previous generation will still be available for the 2023 model year. Fans of two-door vehicles may find the SL class or the CLE class to be worthy substitutes once those are phased out. The Pinnacle grade of the more contemporary sedan, which includes conveniences like ambient inside lighting, a head-up display, in-dash navigation, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a Burmester music system, and more, is preferred over the two-door vehicles in any case.
Specifications, Quarter Mile, 0-60 Mph & Top-Speed
| 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 Specifications | Specs |
| Engine | turbocharged inline-4 |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Horsepower | 402 hp |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.0 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 9.9 sec |
| 1/4 Mile | 12.4 sec |
| Top-Speed | 155 mph |