THE SOUTH AFRICAN-BUILT MERCEDES-AMG C 43 4MATIC IS HERE.
The new Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC has arrived in SA, and it’s pretty wicked. I think it’s currently overtaken the C 63 S as my Mercedes-AMG of choice, even though I’ve never driven one on public roads. Racetrack-wise the older C 43 was good fun, and from the details on this latest version, it should be better in every way. This new model, available from January 2023 hasn’t really arrived in SA, it’s never been anywhere because it’s one of the range-topping Mercedes-Benz cars that are locally produced in East London. That’s a cool thing, and the fact that a locally assembled car also features trickle down technology from Formula 1 and is the world’s first series production motor to feature an electric exhaust gas turbocharger. When added to the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder, the results are an impressive 300 kW an extra 10 kW of extra boost available depending on the drive mode.
This gas/electric turbocharger is operated via the 48-volt electrical system, which also feeds the belt-driven starter-generator – RSG. As said, the setup produces 300 kW but is able to use an extra, albeit brief additional addition of 10 kW from the RSG. Another new feature in the C 43 is the standard rear-axle steering that’s integrated into the AMG Performance 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive drivetrain. Also in the mix is AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with Adaptive Damping System. “Behind every Formula 1 championship is a series of innovations that give the world’s greatest racers that extra bit of edge. With an ingenious new engine at its core, coupled with the innovative technology of the electric exhaust gas turbocharger, we are once again increasing the attractiveness of this latest generation of powerful sedan,” says Mark Raine, Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director of Passenger Cars. “With the new C 43, we are also demonstrating the tremendous potential that lies in electrified combustion engines.”
The C 43 4MATIC is differentiated from other models by an AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical struts in chrome, AMG front apron with flics, sporty air intakes with a chrome-plated trim element, matching side sill panels, a diffuser-look rear apron and two round twin-tailpipe trim elements, OEM 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, AMG seats with a distinctive upholstery layout, leather and nappa leather seat covers, a flat-bottomed AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather, AMG-specific displays and functions, and an optional AMG TRACK PACE data logger. The 300 kW and 500 Nm of torque afford the C 43 a claimed 0-100 km/h dash in an 4.9-seconds with the top speed governed at 250 km/h, unlockable to 265 km/h. It goes on sale in January 2023.
Take a look at the YouTube video that shows off all the new tech and features of the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 4MATIC over at Remove Before Race. Bit weird that there's no local videos of the new car considering it's been built here - you'd expect a little more fanfare, well I did. Anyhoo, take a look: 2023 AMG C43 4Matic + Aero Pack! First Look with Mr.AMG! | Remove Before Race
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