Following the grand unveiling of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class at the North American International Auto Show in January, Mercedes-AMG wasted no time in introducing its high-performance iteration: the Mercedes-AMG E43. This model, powered by a potent 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine, was poised to become the most powerful version of the luxury sedan until the full-fledged AMG E63 arrived. Set to hit dealerships in early 2017, the AMG E43 promised a compelling blend of performance and sophistication.
This powerhouse six-cylinder engine delivers an impressive 396 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. To effectively harness this power, the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system was implemented, prioritizing rear-wheel drive characteristics with a torque distribution ratio of 31:69 percent (front to rear). This setup ensures optimal traction while maintaining the agility expected from an AMG vehicle. Complementing the engine and drivetrain are the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with quicker shift times, the AMG AIRMATIC Adaptive Sport Suspension, and a more direct steering ratio, all working in harmony to deliver signature AMG driving performance.
Alt text: Front view of the Mercedes-AMG E43 showcasing its aggressive front bumper and diamond grille.
Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH at the time of release, emphasized the car’s dual nature: “The new AMG E43 offers impressive driving dynamics coupled with cutting-edge efficiency. Twin turbocharging, features adopted from motorsport and characteristic AMG design immediately indicate to our customers that the new E-Class from AMG offers pure Driving Performance coupled with cutting-edge technology and intense emotion.”
Potent Performance: Engine and Powertrain of the AMG E43
Mercedes-AMG engineers amplified the 3.0-liter V6 engine’s output for the E43, increasing it by 34 horsepower to a total of 396 hp. This enhancement was achieved through the utilization of larger turbochargers and sophisticated AMG-specific software. The engine’s peak torque of 384 lb-ft is readily available across a broad engine speed range, from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm, ensuring responsive power delivery in various driving scenarios.
This configuration translates to sports car-like acceleration. The Mercedes-AMG E43 can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, typical for German performance vehicles.
| Mercedes-AMG E43 | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V6 Biturbo |
| Displacement | 2996 cc |
| Output | 396 hp at 6100 rpm |
| Peak torque | 384 lb-ft at 2500-5000 rpm |
| Curb Weight | 4,145 lbs |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 4.5 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (electronically limited) |
Sporty and Striking: AMG E43 Exterior Design
The exterior aesthetics of the AMG E43 immediately signal its AMG lineage. The front bumper is designed with three large openings, not just for visual aggression, but also to optimize airflow to the vehicle’s coolers. Elegant cross fins integrated into the outer cooling openings and the distinctive diamond grille with chromed pins, a high-gloss black louver, and prominent AMG lettering further distinguish it as an AMG 43 model.
Alt text: Side profile of the Mercedes-AMG E43 highlighting its 19-inch AMG wheels and sporty silhouette.
From the side, the AMG E43 is characterized by its high-sheen 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels, finished in high-gloss black. The rear of the vehicle features quad-flow exhaust tailpipes, finished in chrome, enhancing its sporty appeal. A silver chrome rear diffuser and a body-colored spoiler lip on the trunk lid complete the rear design, adding subtle yet effective aerodynamic and visual enhancements.
Interior Dynamics: Cabin Design of the AMG E43
The interior of the AMG E43 reinforces its dynamic character with numerous model-specific details. Sport seats offer enhanced lateral support for both the driver and front passenger, crucial during spirited driving. The upholstery is MB-Tex/DINAMICA as standard, with optional nappa leather available, featuring a unique design and red topstitching. This red stitching detail extends to the door center panels and dashboard, finished in MB-Tex, creating a cohesive sporty ambiance.
Alt text: Interior view of the Mercedes-AMG E43 showcasing the sport seats, flat-bottom steering wheel, and digital instrument cluster.
Exclusive pedals, a black roof lining, and striking red seat belts further amplify the sporty theme within the cabin. The multifunction sports steering wheel, wrapped in black nappa leather with red contrasting topstitching and featuring a flattened bottom section, is designed for optimal grip and control. The AMG instrument cluster, displayed on an optional fully-digital, high-resolution 12.3” screen, provides all essential driving information in a clear, driver-focused layout optimized for dynamic driving.
Advanced Engineering: Transmission, Suspension, and 4MATIC
The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission in the AMG E43 is specifically tuned to meet the performance demands of the vehicle. It offers rapid gear changes and a multiple downshift function for quick bursts of acceleration. In “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes, a double-declutching function adds to the driving experience. For even faster gear changes, ignition intervention is employed in these sportier modes compared to “Eco” and “Comfort” settings.
For those desiring manual control, “Manual” mode can be engaged via a button on the center console, allowing gear changes via the steering wheel paddles. In this mode, the transmission holds the selected gear and does not automatically upshift at the rev limiter.
The AMG AIRMATIC Adaptive Sport Suspension enhances agility and cornering performance while maintaining ride comfort. It features a multi-chamber air suspension system with three modes: “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus.” This system allows for a broad spectrum of driving experiences, from comfortable cruising to dynamic sporty handling. The suspension system incorporates specially designed steering knuckles and load-bearing joints for the four-link front axle, with all components optimized for rigidity. Increased negative camber on both front and rear axles further improves handling dynamics, while the elastokinematics of both axles are tuned for greater stiffness, collectively enhancing agility and responsiveness.
The AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system in the E43 is configured with a rear-biased torque split (31:69 front to rear). This setup prioritizes driving dynamics and lateral acceleration while ensuring excellent traction during acceleration. The integration of the permanent all-wheel drive with the 9G-TRONIC transmission represents a conceptual shift, with a single-stage transfer case flange-mounted to the 9G-TRONIC as a separate unit. This new design allows for more flexible torque distribution tuning across different models and improves efficiency, reduces friction, and lowers weight compared to previous integrated designs.
Customizable Driving Experience: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT
The AMG DYNAMIC SELECT system offers five distinct transmission modes: “Eco,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport Plus,” and “Individual.” This system allows drivers to tailor the AMG E43’s characteristics to their preferences, altering engine response, transmission behavior, suspension settings, and steering feel. Beyond these preset modes, a dedicated “M” button allows for immediate switching to manual transmission mode.
“Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes are specifically calibrated for dynamic driving, featuring a more responsive accelerator pedal, quicker gear shifts, and double-declutching. An increased idling speed in these modes also contributes to quicker starts and faster acceleration. Conversely, “Eco” mode prioritizes efficiency, utilizing the ECO start/stop function and a gliding function. When gliding, the engine decouples from the powertrain when the accelerator is released between 31 and 99 mph, reducing engine speed to idle and minimizing driving resistance.
The speed-sensitive sports steering in the AMG E43 features a variable ratio and offers two steering power assistance modes: “Comfort” and “Sport.” “Sport” mode increases steering torque for enhanced feedback. The AMG E43 is also equipped with a large, internally ventilated compound brake system for robust and reliable braking performance.
Optional Enhancements and Market Debut
Optional features for the AMG E43 further emphasize its sporty nature, including AMG seats with even greater lateral support, luxurious nappa leather upholstery, and larger 20-inch wheels for an even more imposing stance and enhanced handling.
The Mercedes-AMG E43 made its global debut at the New York International Auto Show in March 2016 and arrived in US dealerships in early 2017, marking the beginning of a new era of performance-oriented luxury sedans. It offered a compelling entry point into the AMG world, delivering exhilarating performance and sophisticated luxury in a well-rounded package.
Alt text: Rear view of the Mercedes-AMG E43 showing the quad exhaust pipes and AMG badging.
