2016 Wards 10 Best Engines Test Drive: Mercedes C450 AMG

TRANSCRIPT

A-M-G spells performance at Mercedes, and that’s clearly evident in the 2016 C450 AMG Sedan, one of the best drivers in the German luxury brand’s U.S. lineup.

The fun starts with the car’s 3-liter twin-turbo all-aluminum V-6 that easily tops the 100 horsepower-per-liter performance bogey at 362. It also generates a generous 384 pound-feet of torque from 1,600-4,000 rpm. The car’s automatic responds quickly and smoothly and its seven speeds help squeeze the most out of a gallon of fuel.

The C450’s 24-valve V-6 is part of the Mercedes BlueDIRECT engine family, which means there’s an accent on engine efficiency to go with performance. During our 10 Best testing, we saw fuel economy as high as 24.1 mpg, depending on the commute, a tick higher than the EPA’s combined rating.

But there’s plenty of pop too. Mercedes says the car can sprint to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds; we notice only a hint of turbo lag before power is delivered. The gas-saving stop/start system is as smooth as they come and the engine puts out just enough throaty exhaust to remind you of the C450’s performance credentials, without wearing you down.

Base priced well under our 10 Best cap at $50,800, our tester checks in at $64,645, mostly a result of upgraded paint and trim and added safety and infotainment equipment.

With or without the extras, the C450 has plenty to offer in the luxury sport sedan class.

– David E. Zoia