Mercedes-Benz introduces the AMG-treated C43 sedan for the 2023 model year. The new model boasts efficiency courtesy of an onboard mild-hybrid system, as well as performance by way of an electric turbocharger adapted from Formula 1 technology.
There's a new Mercedes-AMG C43 in town
The new model abandons the previous 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine sported by its predecessor in favor of a 2.0-liter M139 inline-4 gasoline power unit, the same one found under the hood of the Mercedes-AMG SL43, CLA45, and GLA45. This longitudinally mounted engine produces 402 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque.
An electric motor measuring 1.6 inches thick within the turbocharger keeps the turbine shaft spinning even without exhaust gases, improving responsiveness while reducing turbo lag. This tech also powers the 1.6-liter V6 hybrids used by the Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 team. Meanwhile, a 48-volt belt-driven starter generator adds 13 extra horsepower for brief sprints as needed.
It's the latest to feature F1-derived turbo technology
Along with the 9-speed wet-clutch automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drivetrain as standard, the new C43 can achieve 100 kilometers per hour from a standing start in 4.6 seconds. Default 18-inch alloys allow a top speed of up to 250 kilometers per hour, increasing to 265 when switched with either 19- or 20-inch wheelsets.
The mild-hybrid system also enables energy recovery through an upgraded braking setup, comprising 14.6-inch discs in front and 12.6-inch ones at the rear. Aside from adaptive dampers featuring three settings, the C43 also has rear-wheel steering.
The new C43 AMG largely retains its predecessor's design
In terms of looks, the 2023 C43 features the trademark Panamericana grille from AMG with the vertical slats hovering over the revamped front bumper. The greenhouse uses black trim in lieu of the previous chrome, and the body terminates at a trunk spoiler above quad exhaust pipes.
AMG branding is unmistakable on the inside, with the logo seen everywhere from the MB-Tex and microfiber upholstery to the floor mats and lighted door sills. A flat-bottomed steering wheel sits in front of a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The 11.9-inch infotainment screen runs the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) software with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
As expected, the interior is brimming with onboard tech
An optional in-car data logger system called AMG Track Pace is available for customers who are inclined to take their cars on track days, capable of recording 80 data points at 10 times per second to help drivers improve lap times.
No pricing information has been confirmed, but the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 is expected to retail starting at $60,000 (Php 3.125 million) when it arrives in the U.S. in late 2022.
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Know more about Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2024
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2024 is a compact executive car that has been around in the German marque's lineup since 1993. Mercedes-Benz Philippines introduced the fifth-generation C-Class in August 2022. Pricing then starts at Php 3.89 million.
Under the hood, this luxury sedan uses a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline four-cylinder engine that can produce up to 170 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. The said engine then works in tandem with an electronic motor powered by a 48-volt power supply. A 9G-Tronic (9-speed automatic) transmission is used to send power to the rear wheels.
Dimensions-wise, the C-Class is 4,751 mm long, 2,033 mm wide, and 1,440 mm high. In the local market, this German compact executive car competes against the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Lexus IS.
>>> New and used Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2024 for sale in the Philippines
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Launch
The C-Class Philippines was first produced in 1993 as a replacement for the 190 range. It used to be the smallest model in the Mercedes-Benz line-up before the arrival of the A-Class. In the Philippines, the nameplate was launched in 2014. Fast forward to 2022, Mercedes-Benz Phillippines launched the fifth-generation version in August 2022.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Exterior
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2024 boasts of its refined new silhouette that is created by a balance of edges and angles. Its body lines run from the sides to the rear and function as a wind cutter which provides improved aerodynamics.
For the local version, it comes packaged with the Avantgarde exterior. This provides in with LED headlamps, LED daytime running lamps, LED headlamps, a single louver grille, and a muscular-looking grille. It also rides on a set of 18-inch alloy wheels.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Interior
Inside the C-Class Philippines is a refined and luxurious cabin decked in premium materials. The brand’s signature neutral color palette is blended with more modern details and features. Seats for the current C-Class are wrapped in high-quality leather and matched with an electronically adjustable driver’s seat for added comfort. Comfort is then provided with a Thermal automatic climate control system.
Other features found inside the new C-Class are Velour floor mats, a 64-color ambient lighting system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, folding rear backrests, and 4-way lumber support for the seats, among others.
Technology & Safety Features
Dominating the dashboard of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a 12-inch MBUX touchscreen display. For connectivity, it has wireless Apple CarPlaym, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and USB. The said head unit can also be controlled via voice commands.
For the driver, this luxury model is also kitted out with a 10.25-inch full digital gauge cluster. It displays the usual speed, tachometer, and trip meter, but it can also give media notifications among other things.
For safety, the all-new C-Class gets anti-lock braking, stability control, ISOFIX child seat anchors, plenty of airbags, a reverse camera, tire pressure monitoring, and several ultrasonic exterior sensors. Those are then backed up with seven airbags, active brake assist, acceleration slip regulation, a car alarm with interior motion sensor, blind spot assist, adaptive brake lights, attention assist, active pedestrian protection, cruise control with speed limiter, active park assist, etc.
Platform & Chassis
The C-Class uses the Mercedes-Benz MRA II platform. It shares this with the GLX, and its larger S-Class brother. As for its layout, it is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive model. It then uses a Sturt-type front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. Braking for this model is handled by disc brakes for all four wheels. It also uses an electronic parking brake.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Engine & Drivetrain
Under the hood of the new Philippine-spec C-Class is a 1.5-liter inline-4 engine that works together with an electric motor. Together, this hybrid system can make up to 170 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. The said engine is then paired with a 9-speed automatic gearbox.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has a total of ten colors for the local market. These include Graphite Gray, High-tech silver, Manufactur hyacinth red metallic, Manufactur opaline white bright, Manufactur selenite grey magno, Mojave silver, Obsidian black, Polar white, Selenite grey, and Spectral blue.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers one of the most luxurious sedan interiors in the market today. For that matter, it is only matched by a few models. Maybe only by the larger S-Class. When tech is concerned though, some more affordable models can now match its kit. This is also true with regard to its safety kit. Power-wise, it is powerful for its size, though do note that there are peppier options within this price range.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class 2024 Price List
| Variant | Price |
|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 180 Avantgarde | ₱3.99 Million |
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Pros & Cons
Pros
- Luxurious interior
- Decent amount of tech
- Plenty of safety features
- Elegant exterior
Cons
- Pricey
- Meant to cruise/not that sporty
₱ 3,390,000 - ₱ 5,690,000
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