Geneva Motor Show: 2017 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe: Comments

[William Maley]

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Mercedes-Benz is taking aim at the Audi S5 and BMW 435i with the introduction of the 2017 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe.

 

At first glance, you might be thinking this is a dyed in the wool AMG model. But you would be incorrect. This would have been part AMG Sport lineup which includes the C450 sedan and GLE450. But earlier this year, Mercedes announced that it would be shuttering the AMG Sport name and rename the models Mercedes-AMG C43 and GLE43.

 

The C43 coupe shares the sedan's twin-turbo 3.0L V6 with 362 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. A nine-speed automatic and Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive system gets the power to the road. The all-wheel drive system is biased to the rear (31:69). Mercedes quotes a 0-60 time of 4.7 seconds and a top speed limited to 155 mph.

 

Mercedes has equipped the C43 with some of the goodies found in the mad C63. They include the three-stage variable dampers and the three-stage stability control system. In terms of looks, the C43 isn't quite as bonkers as the C63. But it does have a more aggressive front end and a set of 18-inch alloy wheels.

 

Mercedes will debut the C43 next month at the Geneva Motor Show. Sales begin in the fall.

 

Source: Mercedes-Benz

 

 

Press Release is on Page 2

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New member of the C-Class Performance family

 

Mercedes-AMG has added another model to its C-Class family: the new C43 Coupe. For a dynamic driving experience, the Affalterbach-based development teams have put together a scintillating engineering package: the 362 hp 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine is combined with the new 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission that provides rapid gearshifts. Together with the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive and the model-specific chassis technology, this provides the optimum basis for high agility and exhilarating lateral dynamics. Thus the new C43 Coupe also fulfills the brand promise of 'Driving Performance' in every respect.

 

Dynamic growth characterizes the corporate philosophy of Mercedes-AMG. A key component is the continual extension of the product range to include all-new models, which was previously not part of the portfolio. "The extension of the C- Class family to include the new C43 Coupe is another component in our growth strategy. It not only enriches the wide line-up of the C-Class family, but also starts the introduction of a whole series of new '43' models this year", says Mercedes-AMG GmbH chairman Tobias Moers. "The '43' models boast the characteristic AMG genes, which are also included in our GT and '63' vehicles, and thus consistently interpret our brand essence of 'Driving Performance' in their segment." Sports car technology and motor racing flair thus become more attainable and appeal to a broader customer base.

 

The 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine provides impressive performance with 362 hp and peak torque of 384 lb-ft, sprinting from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited). The newly developed front axle, taut elastokinematics and the highly precise steering make a substantial contribution to the agile driving experience.

 

The highlights

• 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine with modified engine control unit for increased boost and high-revving
• 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with double-declutching function when shifting down and exhilaratingly short response times in "Sport Plus" mode
• AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque distribution of 31 to 69 percent (front axle to rear axle)
• AMG RIDE CONTROL sport suspension with adaptive variable damping in three stages; mode can be selected via button, adopted from Mercedes-AMG C63
• AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch for dynamic, individually-selectable driving experience with five drive modes and AMG-specific tuning
• Three-stage Electronic Stability Program ESP®
• Front axle with newly developed steering knuckles and load-bearing joints on the spring link. Elastokinematic adjustments to the links have been adopted from the Mercedes-AMG C63
• Rear axle with elastokinematics tailored to higher driving dynamics
• Large braking system with internally ventilated compound brake discs, perforated at the front with a diameter of 14.2", and with a diameter of 12.6" at the rear
• AMG styling with distinctive front and rear apron as well as special tailpipes
• Diamond radiator grill with chrome-plated pins and louvers in high-gloss black
• 18" AMG light-alloy wheels in 5-spoke design, painted high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish
• AMG instrument cluster with checkered flag design with 180 mph scale and AMG main menu
• Multifunction sports steering wheel in leather with deep embossing in grip area, flattened bottom section and red contrasting topstitching
• Upholstery in MB-Tex / DINAMICA microfiber in black with sport seat upholstery layout and red topstitching
  

AMG-specific: the 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine
The C43's 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine has seen several technical advances including a modified boost pressure allowed AMG engineers to increase the engine's power output and torque as well as its dynamism and flexibility to AMG levels. With 362 hp and 384 lb-ft, the V6 engine sets new standards in its segment. The NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder liners is also used in the Formula One engines of the MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS team. Especially tough and wear- resistant, this coating reduces friction, thereby contributing to higher efficiency. The AMG powerplant can be identified by the red aluminum insert in the engine cover.

 

Short shift times, high efficiency: 9G-TRONIC
The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is especially matched to the demands of the Mercedes-AMG C43. Thanks to the model-specific software application, AMG developers managed to substantially reduce the shift times of the 9-speed transmission. The ability to downshift multiple gears at once allows for even faster short bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in the "Sport" and "Sport Plus" transmission modes makes for an even more emotional driving experience. Defined ignition adjustments also provide faster gearshifts in the "Eco" and "Comfort" modes.

 

"Manual" mode can be enabled by pressing a button on the center console. The gear changes are based on the selected transmission mode, and the driver can change gears using the paddles on the steering wheel. Moreover, the transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches redline.

 

AMG RIDE CONTROL sport suspension with automatic variable damping
The Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe offers the optimum conditions for high driving dynamics and outstanding comfort on long journeys thanks to the standard-fit AMG RIDE CONTROL sport suspension. The four-link front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components have been optimized in terms of rigidity.

 

Negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle enhances lateral dynamics and the elastokinematics of both axles have been designed to be more rigid in general. All these measures improve agility and boost the dynamics. In addition, the driver benefits from reduced body roll, higher lateral acceleration, better traction and neutral handling at the limit.

 

The driver can select the automatic adjustable damping system's three suspension modes "Comfort," "Sport" and "Sport Plus" by pressing a button on the center console to fully customize the driving impression.

 

Characteristics at the tap of a finger: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT
With the five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes "Eco," "Comfort," "Sport," "Sport Plus" and "Individual," the driver can tailor the characteristics of the C43 Coupe to individual preferences at the tap of a finger. The available range extends from efficient and comfortable to very sporty. These modes modify several key parameters, including the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering.

 

The "Sport Plus" mode in particular delivers impressive hallmark AMG dynamics: partial cylinder suppression during full-throttle gear changes by means of a precisely defined delay in both ignition timing and fuel injection allows for faster and more audible gear changes. This is perfectly complemented by the double- declutching function when downshifting.

 

In order to increase efficiency, the ECO start/stop function and the 'sailing' function reduce fuel consumption in "Eco" mode; when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 37 and 99 mph, the clutch is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The electronics reduce the engine speed to idle level and driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.

 

Direct and with clear feedback: speed-sensitive sport steering
The speed-sensitive sport steering assists the agile cornering of the new C43 Coupe with its variable ratio. It stands out with its precise, highly authentic feedback. The servo assistance can be varied with the "Comfort" or "Sport" settings. The relevant characteristics are automatically activated depending on the selected DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode or can be personalized in "Individual" mode.

 

Muscular with an emphasis on width: the exterior design
The Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe is sporty in appearance, making it instantly recognizable as a member of the AMG family. Characteristic features include distinctive AMG styling as well as specific light-alloy wheels, underscoring the brand's progressive nature and performance. The engine cover has a red aluminum insert that accentuates the strengths of the six-cylinder Biturbo engine.

 

Exterior AMG styling includes the front apron with sporty distinctive air intakes, diamond meshes, silver chrome trim, as well as the rear apron with matte iridium silver diffuser insert. The diamond radiator grill features chrome-plated pins, louvers in high-gloss black and AMG lettering. A silver-chrome front splitter ensures an optimal flow of air to various cooling modules.

 

Additional highlights include black exterior mirror housings, high-gloss black waistline trim strip and window frame, as well as the two chrome-plated tailpipes with center divider. Further striking features come courtesy of the new "BITURBO – 4MATIC" lettering on the front fenders and the "AMG" (left) and "C43" (right) lettering on the trunk lid.

 

Customers can choose the optional “Night Package," which adds high-gloss black front apron trim, a high-gloss black diffuser-look insert at the rear and two black tailpipes with center divider.

 

AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish round off the design visually. Size 225/45 R 18 tires on 7.5 x 18 light-alloy wheels are fitted at the front, while the rear axle comes with 245/40 R 18 tires on 8.5 x 18 wheels. 19" light-alloy wheels in various designs are optionally available for even greater individualization.

 

Sporty interior looks with model-specific details
The interior reinforces the consistently dynamic bias with numerous specially designed details. Ideal for a spirited driving style, the multifunction sport steering wheel in black leather features a flattened bottom section and red contrasting topstitching.

 

The driver finds a secure and comfortable seating position even at speed thanks to improved lateral support provided by sport seats. The MB-Tex / DINAMICA microfiber upholstery and the instrument panel trimmed with MB-Tex create a sporty ambience. The man-made leather is also used on the upper edges of the body, the armrests, the door center panels and the center console. Red contrasting topstitching, designo red safety belts and black floor mats with red edging add attractive highlights. The aluminum trim pieces with light-tone longitudinal grain embedded in the instrument panel and the doors provide effective contrasts.

 

The AMG instrument cluster delivers all relevant information in a clearly arranged layout optimized for a dynamic driving style. An authentic sports car look and feel is provided by two tube-shaped round dials, 4.5-inch multifunction color display, RACETIMER and 180 mph scale in checkered-flag design.

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[G. David Felt]

Wow, another generic Jelly bean car that looks like all the others with a non inspiring dash. Wonder how long MB can milk this pathetic design language. Just another Bland car no better or worse than the Bland Camry.

[Suaviloquent]

Wow, another generic Jelly bean car that looks like all the others with a non inspiring dash. Wonder how long MB can milk this pathetic design language. Just another Bland car no better or worse than the Bland Camry.

 

You can't be serious man.

 

I know you like certain companies more, but seriously? This is the same kinda attitude many people have against... hell you name it, any American car company no matter how credible their efforts or how lauded their products.

 

I have no vested interest with this car, I would not even consider a single car from this segment of compact RWD sedans/coupes... but I respect them nonetheless.

 

They control the luxury market. They really do. And everyone else is measured against them.

[smk4565]

The performance is AMG level, or at least AMG level of 5 or so years ago.  But I am still not really a fan of having the V6 powered "AMG 43" cars.  I'd rather see all the V6 (soon to be inline six) Benzes with a 400 moniker, V8s 500, V12 600.  I think it would make more sense.

 

I do like the looks of the coupe though, I think this styling language will look better on an E-class coupe.

[G. David Felt]

 

Wow, another generic Jelly bean car that looks like all the others with a non inspiring dash. Wonder how long MB can milk this pathetic design language. Just another Bland car no better or worse than the Bland Camry.

 

You can't be serious man.

 

I know you like certain companies more, but seriously? This is the same kinda attitude many people have against... hell you name it, any American car company no matter how credible their efforts or how lauded their products.

 

I have no vested interest with this car, I would not even consider a single car from this segment of compact RWD sedans/coupes... but I respect them nonetheless.

 

They control the luxury market. They really do. And everyone else is measured against them.

 

 

I am serious and I also hold this attitude against all the American brands as they have also done the bland thing more than once. Only in the last few years have some makers finally changed to design language that differentiates themselves from the pack. BMW, MB, Toyota and Honda are the worst offenders of using the same look on everything and pretty much killing it.

 

Toyota wins for having the bland cars under their Toyota label, Bland with an ugly mouth on Lexus and just plain puking ugly in the Prius family.

 

This whole Coupe style on everything is so over done. This is not very inspiring at all.

 

I do agree with SMK and I know others here have voiced the same that the model numbers should also reference the size of the engine.

 

In this regards I think many of the makers from bare bones starter car to ubber luxury needs to reboot their naming so it falls in line with their engine size.

[Suaviloquent]

This is how the sausage is made, and a fully reborn Cadillac will do exactly the same. They already do. VSport is the middleman between V Series and the 3.6L or perhaps the 3.0TT. There will be a middle child CT4 that is the ATS replacement. 

 

This is what they do. This is what every luxury brand practices. It is nothing new, nothing innovative, so in one sense you are correct DFelt. But because you can cast the same reflection against future Cadillacs - despite however much their executives say they don't follow their competitors - it's there for everyone to see.

 

If the ATS-V gets an even more hardcore version - welp, it's been done before in that same segment space. Hell, the C63 already has an "S" version which is just a spectacular money grab by Mercedes, but it is technically offering more performance.

 

And seriously, I wouldn't have brought up the Mercedes, but apparently the guys at Motortrend actually like the way it drives quite a lot, and they like the Cadillac too. 

[balthazar]

I think they meant to name it "C30"…..

[ccap41]

I like it. Looks good. I just don't understand using the AMG name/badge on it. I feel they're going to slowly water down the brand. 

 

I actually don't think the 2016 Toyotas are bland anymore. The new front ends they've thrown on in the last few years with all the hard angles take the bland away. I don't think they look great or anything but no longer bland looking. My bland award would go to Nissan. Not only are Nissans bland but they don't make anything even worth considering. At the very least Toyota has the Corolla, Camry, and Tacoma with all very good reputations. Nissan has..the Altima..? 

[ccap41]

This is how the sausage is made, and a fully reborn Cadillac will do exactly the same. They already do. VSport is the middleman between V Series and the 3.6L or perhaps the 3.0TT. There will be a middle child CT4 that is the ATS replacement. 

 

This is what they do. This is what every luxury brand practices. It is nothing new, nothing innovative, so in one sense you are correct DFelt. But because you can cast the same reflection against future Cadillacs - despite however much their executives say they don't follow their competitors - it's there for everyone to see.

 

If the ATS-V gets an even more hardcore version - welp, it's been done before in that same segment space. Hell, the C63 already has an "S" version which is just a spectacular money grab by Mercedes, but it is technically offering more performance.

 

And seriously, I wouldn't have brought up the Mercedes, but apparently the guys at Motortrend actually like the way it drives quite a lot, and they like the Cadillac too. 

It is fairly new. It isn't innovative, but I still don't like it. It waters all of the names down. F Sport, M Sport, VSport, and now this AMG thing. 

 

Is this ffering more performance than the previous C450 of last year? Or did they just rename it? 

[smk4565]

C450 renamed.  I believe there will be an E43 as well.