As a motoring journalist, I recently had the privilege of test driving the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43, and let me tell you, it’s a car that commands attention. From its stunning exterior design to its powerful engine, this vehicle is a true work of art. Let’s dig in!
Before we get there, if you loved my take on the new C-Class, you’ll love this review.
Let’s start with the exterior. The C43’s aerodynamic lines and sleek curves give it a dynamic and sporty appearance. The front grille is distinctive, and the aggressive air intakes provide not only a sporty look but also function to cool the engine. The rear of the car is equally impressive with a sporty bumper and twin tailpipes, completing the look of this striking machine.
Under the hood, the C43 is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder in-line engine that delivers 300 kW of power and 500 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and quickly. The C43 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, which is impressive for a car in its class. This is a second faster than the outgoing model by the way.
The top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h. By adding the optional AMG Driver’s Package, it can be raised to 265 km/h.
But the C43 is not just about raw power. It’s also packed with cutting-edge technology, including a 10.25-inch infotainment system with voice recognition, a Burmester surround sound system, and a digital driver display. The car also features advanced driver-assist technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
On the open road, the C43 handles beautifully. The suspension is perfectly tuned, providing a comfortable ride while still feeling sporty and responsive. The steering is precise, and the car feels well balanced in corners. The car’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip, making it easy to control even on wet or slippery surfaces. There is one drawback though, the car seems to be track ready and track focussed at heart. When in comfort, it struggles to find and keep the appropriate gear, especially when driving in suburbia. But once you change it to Sport and Sport+, the C 43 is at its happiest. I’m not entirely sure whether that’s a drawback or not, but still, its just weird.
On the track, the C43 is a joy to drive. The car’s sporty nature really shines through, and the engine delivers ample power, while the chassis provides excellent handling. The brakes are strong and responsive, and the car feels well planted even at high speeds.
However, there are some negative aspects of the C43. The infotainment system can be a bit fiddly to use, and some of the interior materials feel a bit cheap. Additionally, the car is quite expensive, with a starting price of around R1,608,810 in South Africa. Comparing it with the likes of the BMW M340i, I’m super keen to see how many of these babies Mercedes manage to move.
In conclusion, the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 is a fantastic car. It’s a powerful and dynamic machine that’s packed with advanced technology, and it offers an exhilarating driving experience both on the road and on the track. While there are some downsides to the car, overall, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a high-performance luxury vehicle.
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