2024 Mercedes-AMG C43
Starting at $62.000 est
HIGHSPowerful turbo four, holds on to corners like a terrier with a bone, looks the part.
LOWSStiff ride, transmission exhibits occasional clunkiness, the coupe and convertible models are no more.
VERDICTSituated between the luxurious but languid C300 and the fervent C63, the C43 blends attributes from them both into a well-appointed and intense performance sedan.
Overview
With 402 horsepower on its spec sheet, you might assume that the 2024 Mercedes-AMG C43 was powered by a twin-turbo V-6, but it's actually got a fiery little turbo four with some cool tech cribbed from the Mercedes F1 racing program under its hood. An electric motor spins up the turbocharger to help reduce lag and a 48-volt hybrid system gives an extra boost too. It doesn't have the same punch as the even more powerful C63 model, but the C43 represents a big step up in performance from the standard Benz-branded C300 sedan. The C43's suspension tune is aggressive, with a ride that's stiff, but a rear-wheel steering system and adaptive dampers all contribute to the car's agility. Inside, the C43 is just as premium as the C300 but wears a racier wardrobe, including carbon fiber trim, sport seats, and upholstery with boldly colored contrast stitching. A big portrait-oriented infotainment screen provides access to the digital world and a host of driver-assistance features are on the roster too, making the C43 a sports sedan that can double as commuter transit, a family car, or a road-trip companion.