Mercedes-AMG Reveals 402-hp C43 4Matic Mild-Hybrid

Mercedes-AMG reveals the new C43 4Matic – the first model to receive a newly developed mild-hybrid version of the automaker’s 2.0L gasoline 4-cyl. featuring a 48V electric architecture and electric turbocharging.

Set for North American sale later this year, the sedan from Mercedes-Benz’s performance division has been comprehensively re-engineered for the introduction of the new engine, drawing on the changes already brought to the sixth-generation C-Class launched last year.

The longitudinally mounted unit replaces the turbocharged 3.0L V-6 used by earlier C43 4Matic models.

With an electric turbocharger replacing the exhaust-gas turbocharger used in the 4-cyl. AMG engine up to now, as well as a newly configured belt-driven starter-generator to boost power momentarily under full throttle, the powerplant develops a claimed 201 hp/L, lifting the output of the 2023-model-year C43 4Matic 40 hp beyond its predecessor to 402 hp. Torque decreases 15 lb.-ft. (20 Nm) to 369 lb.-ft. (500 Nm).

Mercedes-AMG C43 turbo electrified badge screenshot CROPPED_0

Drive is channeled through a 9-speed MCT automatic gearbox featuring a Race Start function as well as an AMG-specific version of Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system with a 31:69 distribution of drive front to rear.

Mercedes-AMG is yet to make any acceleration claims, though it says the 155-mph (250 km/h) top speed of the 3,890-lb. (1,765-kg) C43 4Matic can be increased to 165 mph (266 km/h) with an optional Driver’s Package.  

To give the model a characteristic AMG sound, the C43 4Matic receives a newly developed exhaust system. Buyers also can specify an optional AMG Real Performance Sound package that uses a synthesizer to enhance the exhaust note via the audio system.

The chassis of the standard C-Class has been extensively upgraded in the transformation to C43 4Matic. Included is a revised front axle with model-specific steering knuckles and load-bearing joints. The AMG Ride Control suspension, with a combination of double wishbones up front and multilinks at the rear, receives adaptive damping as standard.

Mercedes-AMG C43 interior screenshot

Also included as standard on the C43 4Matic is a new AMG-tuned version of the C-Class’s rear-axle steering system. It provides a maximum 2.5-degree steering angle to the rear wheels, depending on the drive mode.

Brakes are upgraded to 14.6-in. steel discs with 4-piston calipers up front, and 12.6-in. steel discs with single-piston floating calipers at the rear.

The C43 4Matic is differentiated from the C-Class by several traditional AMG styling touches. They include a Panamericana-style grille with vertical louvers, a model-specific bumper, beefier side sills and a reworked rear bumper with a diffuser and chrome tailpipes. The new model rolls on standard 18-in. wheels but can be specified with optional 19- and 20-in. wheels.

Inside (pictured, above), there are AMG-specific digital graphics for the instrument and infotainment displays, a leather-wrapped AMG Performance flat-bottom steering wheel, AMG sport seats trimmed in artificial leather and microfiber, AMG pedals and red seatbelts among other trim changes.

Mercedes-AMG C43 rear 3.4 screenshot CROPPED