AMG's Core Values for More People

Mercedes-AMG, enjoying strong global sales, has begun to implement a bold marketing strategy. Moving from its previous positioning as an "engine company" emphasizing craftsmanship with its "one man, one engine" philosophy, it has started developing models that more people can enjoy by distilling the core values of Mercedes-AMG. The Mercedes-AMG "C 43 Coupe" is one such example.

The Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Station Wagon is equipped with a 3-liter V6 engine developed by AMG. This engine, producing a maximum output of 270kW (367ps) and a maximum torque of 520Nm, is paired with AMG 4MATIC for all-wheel drive. It's a model that combines a sporty driving feel with the functionality of a station wagon, and its actual performance does not disappoint.

Dimensions of 4,747mm (L) x 1,810mm (W) x 1,440mm (H) offer a suitably practical size.

Equipped with a 2,996cc V6 engine developed by AMG.

While the 3-liter V6 engine is the only 6-cylinder offered by AMG, it is actually a mass-produced engine line-built at a Mercedes factory. However, this does not diminish the car's value. It offers ample power, excellent balance in power delivery and response, and is a very well-crafted engine. It provides more than enough power for the Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Station Wagon, which has a relatively compact size of 4.7 meters in length.

A notable update in the improved model released in August 2016 is the availability of right-hand drive. By leveraging the benefits of the 9-speed automatic transmission's multiple gears, the torque band can be utilized more effectively. As a result, the time required to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h has reportedly been reduced by 0.1 seconds to 4.8 seconds.

The AMG 4MATIC, which previously had a standard torque distribution of 33% front and 67% rear, now applies 69% of the torque to the rear, further emphasizing its rear-wheel-drive characteristics. Mercedes explains this is to "achieve high cornering performance."

This car is actually quite difficult to evaluate.

3-Stage ESP Allows for Near-Drift Driving

The Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Station Wagon is a car of superb balance. It's so well-balanced that it almost says everything about it. There are rarely any misses with recent Mercedes-AMG models. Among them, its excellent handling, thanks to the relatively lightweight engine, truly shines. The satisfying feeling of the nose tucking into corners is sporty and uplifting.

Equipped with AMG Ride Control sports suspension.

Maximum output: 270kW (367ps) / 5,500-6,000 rpm, Maximum torque: 520Nm / 2,000-4,200 rpm

In addition to the rear-biased AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, which emphasizes performance, a variety of equipment is available. This is also a major attraction. For example, AMG Ride Control is a sports suspension incorporating variable electronic dampers. While the familiar Dynamic Select, which allows selection of throttle response and steering wheel characteristics, is present, choosing the "Sport Plus" mode dramatically transforms the car's character, especially for this performance-oriented vehicle.

With the 3-stage ESP, the intervention timing of the Electronic Stability Program can be set arbitrarily. The newly added Sport Handling mode allows for driving with traction control applied to the tires right up to the limit, close to drifting.

AMG 4MATIC with a Sporty, Rear-Biased Setup

The C 43, powered by a 3-liter V6 engine, is available in three models: this station wagon, a sedan, and a coupe. In August 2016, the C 43 4MATIC was added to the coupe lineup. The sedan and station wagon models are all equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission and are now available in right-hand drive specifications.

The V6 engine developed by AMG features a lightweight aluminum crankcase and cylinder head. It is combined with a high-pressure spray-guided combustion system and high-efficiency turbochargers. It produces a maximum output of 270kW (367ps) between 5,500 and 6,000 rpm, while generating an impressive maximum torque of 520Nm between 2,000 and 4,200 rpm. While 4MATIC is Mercedes' full-time 4WD system, like other Mercedes-AMG models, the C 43 series is equipped with a dedicated AMG 4MATIC system featuring a sporty, rear-biased setup.

Spacious rear seat area.

Luggage capacity is 470 liters in normal configuration.

The brakes are also a major highlight of Mercedes-AMG models. The front features large 360mm ventilated discs with cooling holes. The brake feel is precise and highly responsive to pedal input, allowing the driver to control the car with confidence and precision. While it's a fundamental principle of sports cars that their brakes must be excellent, these are a prime example.

Safety equipment is comprehensive, featuring Mercedes' latest radar and camera-based systems. Standard features include the Radar Safety Package, which includes Active Lane Keeping Assist to prevent lane departure, and DISTRONIC PLUS, which adds steering wheel control in traffic jams and adaptive cruise control. These are practical features for everyday use.

The Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Station Wagon is priced at 9.52 million yen, significantly higher than the sedan (8.8 million yen) and coupe (9.05 million yen). Some argue that considering the time, effort, and material quality invested in manufacturing Mercedes-AMG vehicles, the price is not entirely unreasonable. Of course, whether it is expensive or not is ultimately decided by the buyer. It would be premature to make a definitive judgment beforehand. What can be said for certain is that this is a station wagon that will likely make every day terribly fun.

Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Station Wagon | Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Station Wagon
Body Dimensions | Length 4,730 x Width 1,810 x Height 1,445 mm
Wheelbase | 2,840 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,600 / 1,545 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,810 kg
Engine | 2,996 cc V6 Twin-Turbo
Maximum Output | 270 kW (367 ps) / 5,500–6,000 rpm
Maximum Torque | 520 Nm (53.0 kgm) / 2,000-4,200 rpm
Transmission | 9-speed AT
Drivetrain | 4WD
Suspension Front | 4-link
Suspension Rear | Multi-link
Brakes Front | Ventilated discs
Brakes Rear | Ventilated discs
Tires Front/Rear | 225/40R19 / 255/35R19
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode) | 11.5 km/ℓ
Trunk Capacity | 470–1,490 ℓ
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.7 m
Price | 9.62 million yen