Once distinguished as the essence of luxury performance, Mercedes-AMG stood tall above its rivals, making Audi RS’s seem mundane and BMW M’s appear as mere imitators. Its prowess on the road was parallel to a rebellious force challenging societal norms, leaving behind a trail of smoke and the smell of burnt rubber. However, as the years passed, the brand saw the introduction of entry-level models, a natural evolution in any lineup. Yet, the introduction of the all-new Mercedes-AMG C43 signals a departure from its once-unwavering commitment to excellence, raising concerns about its connection to reality. 

Looks the Part 

The allure of the new generation C-Class is undeniable, a sentiment we immediately embraced when we first encountered the C300 earlier in 2023. The AMG variant only enhances its appeal further, like garnishing a blue-collar man in a finely tailored suit.  

Likes: Mint interior and exterior styling, comfortable driving position, goes like flies on an elephant’s bottom 

Inside, the ambiance maintains a reminiscent touch of the larger S-Class, offering a sense of spaciousness and opulence with touches of premium materials in all of the right places. And the addition of red seat belts adds a delightful dash of character. Although our model lacked the AMG Performance body-hugging seats, the standard seating provided ample comfort for daily commutes. However, for those indulging in spirited driving dynamics, opting for the AMG Performance seat package may be advisable for added support. 

Drives The Part 

Anything engineered for high performance traditionally has been associated with a firm ride quality. However, the C43 demonstrates notable refinement thanks to the inclusion of standard adaptive dampers. While still conveying a sense of stiffness that transmits road imperfections, it maintains a level of comfort that one wouldn’t deem uncomfortable, rather appropriately firm. Notably, our test model boasted striking optional 20-inch wheels fitted with summer performance tires, potentially accentuating this sensation.  

In cornering maneuvers, the suspension reveals its competence, effectively managing body roll while delivering responsive feedback through the steering. Enhanced by the standard rear-axle steering, which enables 2.5-degree turns, the C43 exhibits heightened agility, elevating the driving experience as it confidently tackles each bend with aplomb. 

AMG has recently embraced a fervor for four-cylinder engines, drawing inspiration from their Formula 1 division’s latest advancements. In a notable departure from its predecessor six-cylinder engine, the C43 now adopts a newly engineered 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, boasting an impressive output of 402 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, identical to the powerplant found in the SL43 Roadster. True to the AMG pedigree, the C43 exhibits blistering acceleration, channeling its formidable power through the standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive system and a 9-speed automatic transmission taking just under 4.0-seconds to 60-mph barking through the gears like a protective puppy.  

Missed the Part

Employing an innovative mild-hybrid assist system, this technology seamlessly integrates an electric motor into the turbocharger, enhancing responsiveness by facilitating a quicker spool-up. Nevertheless, outside the Sport or Sport+ drive modes, apparent turbo lag persists, shedding light on two significant challenges: the transmission and hybrid system. 

We’ve embraced AMG’s shift towards four-cylinder engines, a trend that began with the CLA45 and GLA45. The new C43’s engine delivers a delightful surge of enthusiastic performance, yet it’s like someone got the formula wrong and under engineered. Regardless of the drive mode, the nine-speed kicks like a toddler throwing a tantrum between gears, it carries a significant delay in gear hunting when in motion and when we’re first setting off, it is accompanied by a jittering affect that will make you wish you put a sports bra on before leaving the house.  

Moreover, the auto-start-stop feature, once a smooth and commendable aspect of Mercedes-Benz, now introduces a frustratingly lengthy pause before re-engagement. This might be tolerable at a stop light, but in stop-and-go traffic, it compounds the annoyance, interrupting the otherwise seamless driving experience. 

Dislikes: Aggressive transmission shifts, annoying start-stop system, random disconnecting of Apple CarPlay 

When attempting to tame the C43 calm and collectively, it manages to bring a small amount of joy to one’s wall as we managed to average 24-mpg for the week, 2-more than the EPA rating.

Much like our experience with the SL43 Roadster, the new four-cylinder turbo yearns to break loose from the surrounding concrete buildings. And with a starting price of $61,050, the C43 presents a strong value proposition. However, with our example coming in at $76,055, alternatives such as the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing start to appear more favorable for the everyday living, if you’re willing to compromising on a luxury interior and all-wheel drive…