With 2022 marking AMG’s 55th anniversary, the Mercedes-owned division has recently been on a charge, celebrating the occasion via the debut of numerous limited-edition models, as well as several completely redesigned regular production models — the latest of which to break cover is the new and improved 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43.
Utilizing the same M139 engine as the CLA45 AMG and GLA45 AMG models, the C43 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter hybrid 48-volt inline-four that pumps out 402hp and 369ft-lbs of torque, allowing for a 0-60mph time of 4.6 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph — though this latter figure can be brought up to 165mph when the car is optioned with its available 19” or 20” wheel upgrades. Derived from the 1.6-liter V6 hybrids currently utilized by the Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 team, the C43’s engine massively benefits from an electric motor that’s mounted to the common shaft between the turbine and compressor wheels, allowing the motor to keep the turbocharger spooled up to ideal operating RPM without relying on traditional exhaust gases, hugely eliminating turbo lag.
On the visual end, the C43 looks remarkably similar to the regular C300, gaining only a revised grille, a small front splitter, a vented rear bumper, and a quad-exhaust setup, while the interior of the vehicle has been bestowed with a flat-bottom steering wheel, aluminum paddle shifters, red seatbelts, a carbon trim package, and AMG-branded pedals, illuminated door sills, and floor mats. Other noteworthy elements include rear-wheel steering as standard, and a sport suspension package with adaptive dampers that come with a trio of different ride modes (Comfort, Sport, and Sport+).
The German auto brand has announced that the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 is scheduled to go on sale by Q4 of 2022, and while pricing has yet to be revealed, we anticipate an MSRP of over $60,000 — based on the 2022 C43 Sedan’s $60,500 price tag.
