2019 Mercedes-AMG C43 4Matic

In the market for a new Mercedes C-Class sedan, but not inclined towards the full-on AMG C63? Then the C43 could be just the right fit – and now Benz has upgraded the performance sedan to make it an even more tempting proposition.

The German automaker has applied a host of enhancements to the C43 for the 2019 model year, the biggest of which, as you might expect, can be found under the hood.

The 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 was massaged to deliver 390 PS. That’s 23 more than before, backed up by 384 lb-ft of torque that are transmitted to all four wheels by a nine-speed automatic transmission. The C43 does the 0-100 km/h sprint at 4.7 seconds (4.8 for the Estate), which is the same as before despite the power bump, and its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.

AMG Performance 4Matic all-wheel drive, an AMG Ride Control sport suspension, AMG Dynamic Select drive programs and a speed-sensitive electromechanical steering help muster the most that the C43 can offer, while there’s an AMG Track Pace telemetry system on offer as well.

Along with the more potent engine, Mercedes-AMG has given the C43 a new grille and front and rear bumpers with enhanced aero elements. The dual tailpipes are finished in chrome and there’s a trunk-lid spoiler to help manage airflow, too. 

The 18- or 19-inch alloys are available in grey or gloss black finish, and buyers will also be able to spec the AMG Night Pack that blacks out the splitter, spoiler and side skirts. Also available are optional AMG Performance seats with added bolstering, and there’s an array of interior and exterior aesthetic treatments available as well.

Buyers in overseas markets will be able to order the new Mercedes-AMG C43 in either sedan or estate body-styles, however only the sedan will be offered in the United States. Pricing has yet to be announced, but the 2018 model carries an MSRP of US$ 53,400. That’s a fair bit less, for what it’s worth, than the US$ 66k it’ll take to put you in a C63, or the US$ 74k commanded by the top C63 S sedan. Expect the new model to debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show that opens its doors tomorrow.