Mercedes-AMG C43 facelift gets more power and a swanky interior



The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is not only the three-pointed star’s best-selling model but also Mercedes-AMG’s most successful model series. Available with four body variants (sedan, coupe, cabriolet & wagon), three output levels (C 43, C 63 & C 63 S) and two drive types (rear-wheel drive & 4MATIC), the C-Class has attracted a wide range of customers.

The C 43 model designation that was introduced back in 2015 added to this success story. The mid-cycle facelift now makes the C 43 even more attractive with its sharper appearance, enhanced performance and efficiency as well as a more pleasant cabin.

At the heart of the C 43 rests an uprated M276 3.0-litre bi-turbo V6 engine that pushes out 390 hp (+23 hp) and 520 Nm of torque, the latter remains unchanged from before, kicking in from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. Despite the extra ponies, the C 43 range will still clock the century sprint at 4.7 seconds for the sedan and coupe while the estate and cabriolet gets there in 4.8 seconds. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h.

Transmission of choice is the familiar 9G AMG Speedshift TCT transmission with nine-forward ratios, transferring drive to the rear bias (31:69 front to rear split) AMG 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system. The AMG Dynamic Select drive mode selector retains the usual Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual – still no Race mode like its 45- and 63-series siblings. But it does get a new Slippery drive mode as identified by the snowflake symbol for best traction in slippery or snow-covered road conditions.

For the track frequenter, you now purchase the AMG Track Pace system with the Command Online infotainment system that adds vehicle-specific data like track lap times, sector times, 0 to 100 km/h times, ¼ mile, 100 to 0 km/h and more.

On to the looks, the C 43 facelift spots the new headlamp and taillamp design found on the new C-Class, twin louvre front grilles like the pre-facelift C 63, sporty side skirts, new lightweight alloy wheel design, quad exhaust outlet trim and a new diffuser at the rear. The optional AMG styling package adds a more expressive front splitter, broader side skirt and gloss black flics in the rear bumper.

Other aesthetic enhancing bits include the Carbon Fibre package II where the side mirror housings and boot spoiler lip are finished in carbon-fibre. The Night package which Malaysians are no stranger to adds a black finish on the front splitter, front louvres, black chromed exhaust tailpipes and dark-tinted thermal insulation rear glass.

Inside, the refreshed model is a huge step from before, spotting the marque’s latest generation tech and design. Drivers will immediately be greeted by the new-generation AMG steering wheel wrapped in Nappa leather as standard with built-in Touch Control buttons first seen on the S-Class facelift.

Working in conjunction with the built-in Touch Control buttons are the optional fully-digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 10.25-inch high-resolution media display. The instrument cluster has three AMG-specific display styles of “Classic”, “Sport” and “Supersport”.

Other updated features include 64-colour ambient lighting, Energizing comfort control that adjusts the air condition, massage seats and musical moods to create a specific wellness set up tailored to the occupant’s need.

Malaysia is in a very fortunate position as Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) locally assembles the Mercedes-AMG C 43 sedan and GLC 43, that has made the 43-series to be even more accessible than before. Whether the facelift will follow the footsteps of its predecessor, the market would have to prove that the C 43 is a strong business case for the brand here in Malaysia.


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Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC+ Sedan Facelift

Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC+ Coupe Facelift