Summarize

Even though the next generation 53s are on their way packing a new Merc straight-six turbo with a hybrid touch (watch for a launch report on the E versions of that in about a month), we’ve seen a few of these AMG 43s of late – they come in all shapes and sizes from that GLE mud plugger we drove two issues back, to the E last time and now this Mercedes-AMG C43 4matic.

The common denominator between the trio is of course AMG’s entry-level 295kW 520Nm biturbo V6, which brings enhanced enough performance, frugal enough economy at an attractive enough price to present buyers who perhaps don’t want or don’t need that ultimate full-blown V8’s edge, never mind its boisterous drama and fuss.

This 43 will probably find broad favour – it looks the part, goes the part and screams AMG, but at a significant discount. OK, 4.4 seconds to 100 is also a good few tenths off the pace of its 63 kin, but it has the distinct advantage of being all wheel driven and thereby far easier, better – and more forgiving to drive.

Allow me to explain – the full-blown AMG C 63 is either bouncing off its ESP as its rear end fights for traction, or if you happen to have extinguished the nanny, it will light up that rear axle at the drop of a hat. 

Not quite serene Benz cruising. Makes one wonder why this 4matic AWD system is not an AMG staple, but this is a start and for now a C 43 advantage, along with all the little advantages we now have from that recent facelift. Another interesting aside is that this car’s performance envelope is all but identical the E 43 we drove recently – Teutonic consistency at its best.

For the rest, this fully-specced medium-hot sedan has it all and then some to better satisfy a broader audience every day. Only trouble is the 43s will all soon be replaced by those more powerful, faster and even more economical 53s… 

Of course, if you are Darth Vader, Lewis Hamilton or a stunt driver, there are always the 63s to keep the wild extrovert in you happy. Seems AMG has it all covered?