MERCEDES-AMG E43 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC
Is the E43 a clever compromise, or simply too soft for an AMG?
MERCEDES-BENZ offers as many as 43 distinct AMG variants (not counting those wearing mere AMG Line styling packages, of course) in South Africa. That’s a fitting number, considering Affalterbach’s rapid range expansion – one that should see Mercedes-amg hit an unprecedented global-sales milestone of 100 000 units in 2017 – has been led largely by the 43-badged, Amg-lite derivatives.
Each of these softer versions employs a suitably fettled 3,0-litre bi-turbo V6, essentially bridging the gap between the ordinary line-up and the V8-powered, range-topping 63 variants.
In the case of the E43, the six-cylinder mill – which, tellingly, isn’t hand-built at Affalterbach, but instead based on the V6 already used in the E400 – has been massaged to deliver 295 kw and 520 N.m, thanks largely to the installation of heftier turbochargers. But, in an apparent attempt to retain the standard E-class’ exemplary levels of refinement, AMG’S engineers have dampened the soundtrack, which robs the E43 of much of its aural character.
Power delivery, though, is progressive and handling surprisingly benign (the latter courtesy of an all-wheel-drive system that splits torque front to rear in a ratio of 31:69), with the E43 proving more agile than its 1 905 kg mass would suggest.
In a straight line, too, the sedan impresses, registering a 4,81-second dash to 100 km/h.
The E43 employs a nine-speed torque-converter, which isn’t nearly as snappy as the wetclutch nine-speed auto used in the E63. Even in the tamest of driving modes, the E43’s 9G-tronic cog-swapper is prone to slight lurching at low speeds, while dialling in sport plus doesn’t quite serve up the kick in the back that usually accompanies upshifts in high-performance vehicles.
Still, this powertrain compromise is accompanied by a
welcome suppleness to the ride (particularly in comfort mode), although fitting the optional 20-inch wheels and low-profile rubber adds a little firmness.
While the E43’s exterior styling is somewhat understated for an AMG model, look closely and you’ll notice a more aggressive front apron, a diamond-effect grille and a pair of chrome-plated tailpipes below a subtle, bootlid-mounted spoiler (but no sculpted, inset bonnet, à la E63). It’s a similar case inside, where supportive front sports seats, black headliner and red seatbelts add a touch of drama.
TEST SUMMARY
That’s really what it comes down to: is the E43 dramatic enough – special enough – to wear the AMG badge? Make no mistake, this second-tier performance model is still plenty quick, particularly for a mid-size executive sedan, and many will consider it as offering an admirable balance between performance and comfort that lends itself to fuss-free everyday motoring. To others, though, the E43 will be a little too reserved for its own good. After all, AMG models should be brutal and intimidating. And the E43 simply isn’t.