Following the grand unveiling of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Mercedes-AMG wasted no time in introducing its high-performance iteration: the Mercedes-AMG E43. Set to excite enthusiasts and drivers alike, this model, equipped with a potent 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine, is poised to become the most powerful option within the luxury sedan range until early 2017. Packing a formidable 396 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, the Mercedes E43 Amg delivers a compelling blend of power and refinement. Furthermore, the inclusion of AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive ensures optimal grip and agile handling, thanks to its rear-biased torque distribution. Coupled with the rapid shifts of the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, AMG AIRMATIC Adaptive Sport Suspension, and enhanced steering, the mercedes e43 amg promises signature AMG driving dynamics.
Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, highlighted the car’s appeal: “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.”
The mercedes e43 amg distinguishes itself by boosting the standard six-cylinder engine’s output by a significant 34 hp, achieving the impressive 396 hp figure. This enhancement is realized through the adoption of larger turbochargers and sophisticated AMG-tuned software. The robust peak torque of 384 lb-ft becomes readily available from a low 2,500 rpm, sustaining consistently through to 5,000 rpm, ensuring responsive power delivery across a broad rev range. This powertrain configuration allows the mercedes e43 amg to deliver sports car-level acceleration, reaching 60 mph from a standstill in a mere 4.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically governed at 155 mph, aligning with typical performance sedan standards.
| 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) |
Exterior Design: Sporty AMG Aesthetics
The mercedes e43 amg proudly displays its AMG lineage through distinctive visual cues. Beyond mere aesthetics, the front bumper’s trio of large openings serves a functional purpose, ensuring optimal airflow to the vehicle’s coolers. The outer cooling inlets are refined with dual elegant cross fins, enhancing the car’s assertive stance. The signature diamond grille, adorned with chromed pins and a high-gloss black louver, prominently features AMG lettering, further solidifying its AMG identity, a hallmark of the AMG 43 series.
The profile of the mercedes e43 amg is characterized by striking high-sheen 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels, finished in high-gloss black. Moving to the rear, the design highlights continue with chrome-plated quad-flow exhaust tailpipes, amplifying the sporty persona. The rear diffuser is presented in silver chrome, while a body-colored spoiler lip on the trunk lid comes as standard, completing the cohesive and dynamic exterior.
Interior Design: Driver-Focused and Refined
The cabin of the mercedes e43 amg reinforces its dynamic character through meticulously crafted details. Sport seats provide enhanced lateral support for both the driver and front passenger, crucial for maintaining a secure position during spirited driving. The upholstery, crafted in MB-Tex/DINAMICA (with optional nappa leather available), showcases a unique pattern and red topstitching. This red stitching theme extends to the door center panels and dashboard, finished in MB-Tex, harmonizing with the seat design. Exclusive pedals, a black roof lining, and red seat belts further accentuate the sporty ambiance within the mercedes e43 amg.
The multifunction sports steering wheel, wrapped in black nappa leather with contrasting red topstitching and featuring a flattened bottom, integrates Touch Control buttons and is perfectly suited for performance-oriented driving. The AMG instrument cluster is engineered for dynamic driving, presenting essential information with clarity. It can be specified with a fully-digital, high-resolution 12.3” instrument screen, offering a customizable and modern display.
AMG Engineering: Power and Efficiency in Harmony
At the heart of the mercedes e43 amg lies the AMG 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine, engineered to deliver both high output and optimized fuel consumption and emissions. The impressive 396 hp output is achieved through advancements including new, larger turbochargers and an elevated charge-air pressure of 16 psi. Positioned close to the engine, the twin turbochargers ensure near-instantaneous power delivery, minimizing lag and maximizing responsiveness.
Drawing from Formula 1 technology, the cylinder liners feature NANOSLIDE® coating, also utilized in Mercedes-Benz’s V6 hybrid turbo engines. This exceptionally durable and wear-resistant coating minimizes friction, contributing to enhanced engine efficiency. Complementing this is the spray-guided fuel injection system, operating at pressures up to 2900 psi, optimizing combustion and further enhancing efficiency. A red aluminum insert within the engine cover serves as a visual identifier of this potent AMG powerplant.
9G-TRONIC Transmission: Speed and Control
The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission in the mercedes e43 amg is specifically calibrated to meet the demands of AMG driving dynamics. Its multiple downshift capability allows for rapid bursts of acceleration, while the double-declutching function in “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes intensifies the driving experience with added aural and tactile feedback. Defined ignition intervention contributes to quicker gear changes compared to “Eco” and “Comfort” modes, ensuring optimal responsiveness across driving scenarios.
For those desiring manual control, “Manual” mode can be engaged via a dedicated button on the center console. Gear shifts are then dictated by the selected transmission mode and executed using the steering wheel paddles. Importantly, in “Manual” mode, the transmission holds the selected gear, even at the engine speed limit, providing the driver with ultimate control.
AMG AIRMATIC Suspension: Agile Dynamics
To achieve enhanced agility, neutral cornering behavior, and superior traction, particularly at higher speeds, AMG engineers developed a bespoke sports suspension based on the AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension system for the mercedes e43 amg. The Adaptive Damping System offers three selectable modes: “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport Plus.” This system provides a broad spectrum, ranging from comfortable ride quality for long journeys to firm, controlled dynamics for sporty driving.
The four-link front axle incorporates specialized steering knuckles and load-bearing joints, with all components optimized for rigidity. Increased negative camber on both the front and multi-link rear axles enhances lateral dynamics. The elastokinematics of both axles are engineered to be generally stiffer, collectively contributing to improved agility and dynamic handling characteristics of the mercedes e43 amg.
AMG Performance 4MATIC: Optimized Traction
The AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system in the mercedes e43 amg is configured with a rear-biased torque distribution, splitting torque 31:69 percent between the front and rear axles. This configuration prioritizes enhanced driving dynamics and higher lateral acceleration, while also ensuring improved traction during acceleration.
Integrating the permanent four-wheel drive with the 9G-TRONIC transmission involved a conceptual shift. The single-stage transfer case of the all-wheel drive is now flange-mounted to the 9G-TRONIC as a separate unit. This new design facilitates easier adjustment of torque distribution across different models, allowing for more individualized characteristics within model ranges and improved efficiency compared to previous integrated designs.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT: Tailored Driving Modes
The mercedes e43 amg features AMG DYNAMIC SELECT with five transmission modes: “Eco,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport Plus,” and “Individual.” These modes enable drivers to customize the vehicle’s characteristics to their preferences. Ranging from efficient and comfortable to intensely sporty, these modes adjust key parameters including engine response, transmission behavior, suspension settings, and steering feel.
Regardless of the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT mode, drivers can engage “Manual” mode via the “M” button, enabling gear changes exclusively via the steering wheel paddles. Suspension settings can also be adjusted independently. “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes prioritize driving dynamics, featuring an agile accelerator pedal map, rapid gear shifts, and double-declutching. Increased idling speed in these modes also aids quicker starts and faster acceleration from a standstill.
Conversely, “Eco” mode prioritizes efficiency, utilizing the ECO start/stop function and a gliding function. When the driver releases the accelerator between 31 and 99 mph, the clutch disengages, decoupling the engine from the powertrain and reducing engine speed to idle, minimizing driving resistance and fuel consumption.
Speed-Sensitive Sports Steering: Precise Feedback
The speed-sensitive sports steering in the mercedes e43 amg features a variable ratio, providing precise and authentic feedback. Steering power assistance is selectable between “Comfort” and “Sport” modes. These characteristics are automatically activated based on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT mode or can be personalized in Individual mode. “Sport” mode increases manual torque, enhancing feedback and driver connection to the road. A large braking system with internally ventilated compound brake discs ensures strong and consistent deceleration for the sedan.
Optional Enhancements: Further Sporty Focus
The mercedes e43 amg offers a range of optional features to further accentuate its sporty character. These include AMG seats with enhanced lateral support, nappa leather upholstery upgrades, and larger 20-inch wheel options, allowing owners to tailor the vehicle to their specific tastes and performance requirements.
The mercedes e43 amg made its global debut at the New York International Auto Show in March 2016 and was expected to reach US dealerships in early 2017, bringing a new level of performance and AMG dynamism to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class range.
