Priced at $134,900 before on-road costs, the 2023 four-cylinder Mercedes-AMG C43 is almost 20 percent pricier than the preceding six-cylinder model.

Despite being costlier, this year's brand-new C43 presents itself as a more attractive sports sedan. It boasts a higher power output of 300kW, even though it's shed two cylinders and a litre of engine capacity in the pursuit of lower emissions, and it comes with an even richer set of standard features.

Nonetheless, the steep hike in price, particularly when compared to more budget-friendly competitors such as the updated 2023 BMW M340i LCI ($104,900) and the V6 Audi S4 ($106,200), raises expectations significantly.

In line with the previous model, the C43 is the more junior of the two genuine AMG versions of the C-Class. In the latest 'W206' version, both the C43 and C63 are four-cylinder vehicles, a departure from their previous V6 and V8 versions.

The C63, equipped with a plug-in hybrid system, will deliver a maximum power output of 500kW under ideal conditions, while the plugless C43 consistently generates 300kW on demand. In some respects, the simpler (and significantly lighter) C43 is faced with higher anticipations, particularly given the origin of its engine.

What are the prices for the Mercedes-AMG C43？

The 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 4Matic Sedan has been priced at $134,900, excluding on-road costs. This price, however, includes luxury car tax and GST. Despite being more expensive by $21,324 than its predecessor and around $30,000 more than its competitors - BMW M340i and Audi S4, the new sedan has much to offer.

What’s under the bonnet? 

The 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 4Matic Sedan ditches the old 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 for a reliable M139l 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, first seen in the A45. This engine, combined with a 48V mild-hybrid system and an electric exhaust gas turbocharger, delivers more power and improved performance.

Although this car wears the 'turbo electrified' badge, it could be a little misleading. It does indeed feature a mild-hybrid system and an electric turbocharger derived from F1 technology. However, it's not as turbo-electrified as the C63 with its active hybrid performance system.

The new engine provides 300kW at 6750rpm and 500Nm at 5000rpm, representing a 13kW increase, though a 20Nm decrease from the old V6. All this power is directed to an all-wheel drive system with a 39:61 torque distribution split front-rear, supported by a nine-speed AMG MCT multi-clutch automatic with paddles.

This sedan is capable of reaching 0-100 in 4.6 seconds, slightly faster than its predecessor by 0.1 seconds. It has an electronically capped top speed of 250km/h for our market.

A 48V mild-hybrid architecture teamed with a belt-driven starter generator is included, contributing up to 10kW under load and powering the electric motor mounted in the turbocharger.

This F1-inspired powertrain technology allows for quicker turbo response, reducing turbo lag. The turbocharger is reported to operate at speeds of up to 175,000rpm.

Furthermore, the mild-hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) system enables extended idle stop/start and coasting functions, promoting greater fuel efficiency. The Australian-delivered C43s have a stated fuel economy of 9.1L/100km for combined city-highway driving.

Notably, for the first time ever, the C63 is more fuel-efficient, with a fuel economy of 6.9L/100km, thanks to its true electrified turbo plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology.

How does the Mercedes-AMG C43 drive? 

Sound is a crucial component of a performance car's appeal, and it's even more significant when it comes to AMG-branded vehicles. The company has been known for its powerful soundtracks, such as the resonant '63' family of V8s and the smooth six-cylinder hum of the 53 and 43-badge models. However, even with the exhaust valve open and artificial interior noises turned on, the four-cylinder engine in the new C43 doesn't deliver as pleasant an auditory experience as the previous six-cylinder model.

Despite this, the new powertrain delivers significant speed, and the 48-volt mild-hybrid system provides advantages. It allows the engine to turn off earlier at traffic lights to save fuel and restarts it swiftly enough not to be a bother.

The mild-hybrid system reportedly boosts the driveline with an extra 10kW to compensate for the smaller engine. From a driving perspective, it seems effective, giving the powertrain a potent and lively feel. Excellent traction in virtually all conditions also makes the all-wheel-drive system pack a punch beyond its specifications.

Moreover, the engine's turbocharger is electrified with a small e-motor that starts the turbo before the exhaust gases, aiding in low-end torque delivery and general response. This mechanism is an admirable way to extend the life of high-performance car engines while ensuring impressive performance despite a significant downsizing of the engine.

However, the nine-speed auto transmission can feel overly aggressive, especially at low speeds, causing noticeable lurching. Lifting off the accelerator also results in excessive deceleration, creating a tense, rather than luxurious and relaxed, driving experience. This can feel out of place in a performance-enhanced Mercedes-AMG C-Class.

During our test drive through metropolitan Sydney and the Southern Highlands district, the ride comfort appeared quite busy. The car feels tight and can be jittery on poor road surfaces, even in its softest setting. While this tension is necessary for a performance car, it could strike a better balance between comfort and performance.

On twisty roads, the C43 becomes more enjoyable to drive. Its rear-wheel steering helps it feel more agile and fun to drive. The rapid multi-clutch transmission feels right at home here, providing smooth downshifts and quick upshifts.

What is the Mercedes-AMG C43 like on the inside? 

Mercedes-AMG cars are often praised for their fantastic sport seats, and this model doesn't disappoint. These seats are supportive, highly adjustable (including lateral headrest adjustment), comfortable, and stylishly slender. The steering wheel, equipped with small LCD dials and toggles, is another standout feature.

This car arguably has the best performance-car interface available, with all functions just a few taps away. You can easily toggle between sports exhaust, driver dynamics, exhaust, and even stop-start, choosing two to display constantly during your drive. This makes it convenient to activate the sports exhaust whenever you approach a tunnel.

The interior is minimalist, with a dominant 11.9-inch display on the dashboard, a 12.3-inch driver display, and large, decorative air vents that illuminate at night. The lower center console features a uniquely shaped opening that contains cup holders and wireless charging for your phone.

The 15-speaker Burmester sound system is impressive, delivering excellent audio fidelity. The console opening could be slightly larger and better oriented for easier use. The thin front seats allow for ample space in the back, making it comfortable for adults and children, although the low roof lining might inconvenience taller passengers. The back features air vents and a unique double-action cup-holder with a device holder but lacks USB power ports.

Opening the speedy electric tailgate reveals a sizable 455L boot. While it's spacious, you might need to bend down considerably to access its rear-most areas.

Is the Mercedes-AMG C43 safe?

The 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 has not yet been tested by ANCAP, however the standard Mercedes-Benz C-Class wears a five-star ANCAP safety stamp.

Standard safety equipment on includes:

10 airbags incl. front-centre airbag

AEB with pedestrian/cyclist detection

Adaptive cruise control

Blind-spot monitoring with exit warning function

Driver attention monitoring

Lane-keep assist (steering assist)

Surround-view cameras

Front and rear parking sensors

Semi-autonomous parking assist

Active bonnet

Speed limit assist

AEB junction assist

Adaptive cruise control with stop/go

Blind-spot assist

Lane change assist

Lane following assist

Evasive steering assist

Side-impact anticipation and protection system

Traffic sign assist

How much does the Mercedes-AMG C43 cost to run? 

Our short test run resulted in a fuel consumption figure of 11.5L/100km, slightly above the official combined claim of 9.1L/100km. However, as we only had the car for one day, we couldn't assess its fuel efficiency over a longer period.

Like the rest of the Mercedes-Benz and AMG range, the C43 comes with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Regular C-Class vehicles have three-, four- and five-year servicing plans, with 12-month or 25,000km intervals. However, service pricing for the new AMG C43 is yet to be confirmed.

Yeecar’s Take on the Mercedes-AMG C43 

From all angles, the 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 is undeniably speedy and packed with tech and luxury. It successfully upholds the prestige of the three-pointed star badge and the 'AMG' lettering on the boot lid. However, it's not a hardcore AMG model.

The C43's issues lie in its rough transmission calibration, stiff ride, and groaning body, which significantly detract from its polish and comfort. This seems like a compromised imitation of the hardcore C63, rather than the smooth and sleek counterpart it should be. This could be because the primary focus of Mercedes-Benz and AMG engineers is currently on developing the brand's first fully-electric C-Class, set for release in 2028, making the partially-electrified W206 models seem like a hurried interim solution.

In comparison to its main rivals, the BMW M340i and Audi S4, the C43 falls short. These models have retained their six-cylinder engines, supple damping, and superior quality standards, and are nearly $30,000 cheaper. As such, it might be a better decision to opt for one of those instead.