2023 Mercedes-AMG C43

Overview

The masterminds at Mercedes’s AMG tuning arm have been set loose on the next-generation C-class and the all-new 2023 C43 sports sedan is officially on its way. This time around, the C43 will make due with two fewer cylinders and one less liter of engine displacement—but not less power—as AMG is swapping the old model’s 385-hp, 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 for a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine pumping out 402 horses. All manner of performance enhancing tech is available on the C43, including rear-wheel steering and adaptive dampers for the aggressively tuned suspension. The C43’s interior is similar to the new Benz-branded C300’s except, instead of looking like it attended finishing school, it appears to have graduated from a racing academy. Carbon-fiber trim covers most of the dashboard and the rest is faux-leather with contrasting stitching. A large, portrait-oriented infotainment tablet is angled toward the driver and runs the latest MBUX interface, but the thing we’re most looking forward to sampling is the C43’s new heavily boosted four-cylinder, which uses turbocharger technology derived from Mercedes’s F1 racing team and is similar to the one found in the SL43 convertible—a model that isn’t sold in the United States.

What’s New for 2023?

The C43 is completely redesigned for the 2023 model year. We expect to see it on-sale by the end of 2022. There’s no word yet on an even more powerful C63 model. All we know is that it too will be powered by a version of the high-strung 2.0-liter turbo-four.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Premium

$60,000 (est)

Exclusive

$65,000 (est)

Pinnacle

$70,000 (est)

Unfortunately, we don’t expect to see coupe and convertible models of the C43 this time around. Fans of two-door cars may find the SL-class or the CLE-class worthy replacements, however. When we find out how much the C43 sedan will cost and which trims it will be offered in, we’ll update this story with details.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

While the outgoing model was motivated more than adequately by a 385-hp, 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6, 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 hybrid assist doesn’t add to the total power output, however.) 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 an adaptive dampers.

More on the C43 Sedan

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the C43 mimics the Mercedes-Benz C300’s cabin but gives it a sporty twist using racier materials such as optional carbon fiber trim. The C43 also comes with a sport steering wheel which features a flat bottom, a leather-and-suede wrap, and the AMG logo in the bottom spoke. Performance seats are available too, as is a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, four-zone automatic climate control, and noise-insulating window glass.

The Car and Driver Difference

Infotainment and Connectivity

All models come with a large 11.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that is seamlessly integrated into the center console and canted slightly toward the driver. A 12.3-inch digital gauge display is also standard, and the system runs the latest MBUX software interface that allows for voice activation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto should both be standard for wireless connectivity. A high-end Burmester stereo system is optional, as is a wireless smartphone charging pad, a head-up display, and in-dash navigation.

How to Buy and Maintain a Car

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Although rivals such as BMW, Genesis, and Volvo offer three years of complimentary maintenance, Mercedes-AMG omits that benefit from its standard warranty offerings. Otherwise, all new AMGs come with an industry-standard plan that covers most things for up to four years or 50,000 miles.

Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance

As more information becomes available, we’ll update this story with more details about:

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG Safety and Driver-Assistance Features