2017 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe

Apr 24, 2024, 6:18am ET

The C43 Coupe is Mercedes-AMG's entry-level performance variant of The Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe. The AMG 43 variants are new for the latest model year.

Overview

The AMG 43 lineup represents the new look of entry-level AMG cars. Slotted above the Mercedes-Benz-branded equivalent but below the AMG 63 series of vehicles, the 43s offer a bump in performance and handling for those who aren't quite after the all-out performance offered by the latter group.

The C43 Coupe maintains the luxury feel of a C-Class Coupe, but comes standard with a larger engine, an upgraded suspension and 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

Life Aboard

Like the base C-Class Coupe, the C43 Coupe largely borrows its interior design from the C-Class Sedan. That means an up-scale cabin highlighted by a high-mounted LCD screen running Mercedes' latest COMAND infotainment system. COMAND is controlled via a wheel knob and touchpad located on the center console.

In order to provide as much interior volume as possible, Mercedes has moved the C-Class' passenger's side speaker from the door panel to within the footwell, thereby increasing legroom. Mercedes has also increased the storage space in the C43 Coupe's center cubby area.

Mercedes' MB Tex simulated leather comes as standard in the C43 Coupe, but buyers can upgrade to the genuine article. A number of trim finishes are available, including piano black and matte wood. There are also AMG-specific trim options on offer.

Unlike the C43 Sedan's three-abreast rear seating, the C43 Coupe can only be had as a 2+2. Trunk space is also down by 2.1 cubic feet to 10.5 cubic feet in the Coupe.

Standard Features

The C43 features a biturbo V6 which produces 362 horsepower and 384lb-ft of torque. Unlike the base C-Class, it is only available with 4MATIC all-wheel-drive. Power goes to the wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission.

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Standard equipment on the C43 includes power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a panoramic sunroof. It also includes the features normally found in the C-Class Coupe's "Premium I” package as standard equipment.

The C-Class Coupe's Sport Package (AMG body kit, 18-inch AMG wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes) is essentially standard equipment on the C43. A Night Package can be ordered as well, adding 18-inch black wheels and Gloss Black exterior accents.

Optional Equipment

The Premium II and higher option packages are still available on the C43 Coupe, allowing customers to fine-tune the amount of luxury they want with their performance.

Other notable options include navigation, a head-up display, heated and cooled seats, Mercedes' KEYLESS-GO system and a Burmester premium audio system.

Various AMG accessories, such as larger wheels and performance seats, can also be added a la carte.

Occupant Safety

On the safety front the C43 Coupe comes standard with dual front airbags, along with front row side airbags and side curtain airbags. Available safety equipment includes a rear-view camera, electronic parking aid, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and second row side airbags.

Key Competitors

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class coupe squares off directly against the BMW 4-Series (specifically the 440i), Audi S5, Cadillac ATS Coupe 3.6, and the Lexus RC F.