Mercedes-amg C43

Engine swap boosts power and efficiency in AMG’S latest hot C- Class model On sale Late 2022 Price from £55,000 (est)

WHEN YOU FIRST hear that the new MercedesAMG C43 performance car has swapped its predecessor’s 3.0-litre V6 engine for a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit, you might think that it’s been neutered by evertightening emissions regulations. And the news that it’s also a mild hybrid would seem to confirm that. However, a closer look at the numbers suggests you should think again.

Whether you go for the saloon or the estate, this go-faster variant of the latest MercedesBenz C-class actually produces 17bhp more than the old V6, taking the total to 402bhp. By comparison, you get 369bhp in a BMW M340i. And while the new C43’s torque output is down by 15lb ft compared with its predecessor, that still leaves it with the same 369lb ft as the BMW.

Performance is competitive, too, with the C43 expected to dispatch the 0-62mph sprint in 4.6sec. Plus, the car will be offered with an optional Driver’s Package that increases the top speed from 155mph to 165mph.

Buyers will also be able to specify an AMG Real Performance Sound Package, which enhances the exhaust note by pumping it through the stereo speakers via a synthesiser. However, even if you don’t tick this box on the options list, you’ll still get a sports exhaust.

Four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering are also standard, with the latter allowing the rear wheels to turn by up to 2.5deg to improve high-speed stability and make the C43 more eager to turn in to corners. What’s more, the upgraded suspension, while being inherently sportier in its set-up than that of other C-classes, includes adaptive dampers so you can soften or stiffen the ride to suit the prevailing conditions.

Design details to mark the C43 out from lesser C-class models include four chromed tailpipes, beefier side sills and a front grille with vertical slats instead of a single horizontal bar.

Meanwhile, inside you get bespoke AMG graphics for the digital instruments and infotainment screen, along with a flatbottomed steering wheel, red seatbelts and sports seats that are trimmed in a mix of artificial leather and grippy microfibre.