► First pics of Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe
► Twin-turbo V6 engine, all-wheel drive
► A less powerful, more affordable C63
Mercedes-AMG is bringing a little less power to a few more people with this, the new Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe.
It’s a smaller-engined, less powerful sibling to the full-fat AMG C63 Coupe, with similar chassis modifications and aggressive styling, and is designed to widen the appeal of the AMG range.
Unlike the C63, the C43 Coupe drives all four wheels rather than just the rears. Consequently, it should also prove a tempting alternative to those who would have otherwise been considering Quattro-equipped Audis or BMWs with xDrive.
What’s powering the 2016 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe?
A 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 takes the place of the C63’s 4.0-litre V8. The C43 turns out a still very muscular 362bhp, compared with the C63’s 470bhp (or 503bhp in C63 S form). It’s linked to a nine-speed ‘9G-Tronic’ automatic gearbox which works with a clever ignition mapping system for faster upshifts.
With 384lb ft on tap from 2000rpm and all-wheel drive, the C43 Coupe can hit 62mph in 4.7sec. Top speed is limited to 155mph. Upholding AMG’s reputation for tail-happiness, torque delivery is very much rear biased, with a front:rear distribution of 31% to 69%.
The three-stage adaptive variable dampers on suspension duties are taken from the C63, as is the artificial leather inside.
More AMG 43 models to come
This isn’t the only AMG 43 model on the way. The C43 Coupe ‘starts the introduction of a whole series of new ‘43’ models this year,’ says Mercedes‑AMG chairman Tobias Moers. One of them will be the SLC 43 AMG, the replacement for the outgoing SLK 55 AMG.
This isn’t the first AMG C-class to be called the C43, of course – many have fond memories for the square-cut Q car of the same name from the late ’90s. We’ll find out how its reincarnation drives later in 2016.
Read more of CAR’s 2016 Geneva motor show coverage here
Click here for CAR’s A-Z guide to the 2016 Geneva motor show
