The 2018 Mercedes Benz AMG C43 Sedan: a Review for Consumers
When it comes to everyday luxury, few names withstand the test of time quite as well as Mercedes Benz. One of the newest additions to their line of family-sized sedans, the AMG C43 promises to provide drivers with a luxury road experience while retaining the classic comfort and enjoyability that’s made Mercedes Benz one of America’s favorite vehicle manufacturers. But how do these claims hold up to the actual performance of the car? Before you buy, read our review of the major features the AMG C43 offers.
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Price
According to CarandDriver.com, the MSRP for the 2018 Mercedes Benz AMG C43 is $53,400 for the standard model. This is significantly more expensive than comparable mid-sized sedans on the market. Buyers are paying for the AMG performance. Consumers will have to decide if the luxury name and features of the Mercedes Benz brand outweigh the price.
Gas mileage
The fuel economy of the AMG C43 is lacking, offering a depressing combined 23 miles to the gallon. If improved gas mileage is on the top of your list of concerns, the C43 probably isn’t for you.
Handling
The driving performance of the AMG C43 is where this car really shines- a number of auto-review sources have praised the superior handling and grip of the 3.0 twin-turbo V6 and 9-speed automatic transmission that help the driver remain in control of the car even at high speeds. Auto Week referred to the handling of the AMG C43 as “as grippy as a pair of new Mechanix gloves…wrapped around a torque wrench” and Motor Mag clamored that the model offers a “much more secure-handling car than the C63 without any of the latter’s wheel-spinning histrionics.” For drivers looking for a vehicle that’s simple and easy to navigate, the AMG C43 seems to stand above its competitors.
Suspension
The custom sport suspension of the Mercedes AMG C43 has seen generally negative reviews from professionals when it comes to ride performance and comfort. Observer magazine noted that, despite the special padded shifters meant to increase sport vehicle comfort, the sedan is far too low to the ground and coiled to provide a comfortable ride. A mix between a sports vehicle and a standard sedan, the AMG C43 sacrifices comfort for the increased precision allotted with the 9-speed transmission and improved V6 engine. From personal experience I don’t believe that the C43 is too low to the ground, however that is a matter of personal preference as mixed reviews has surfaced regarding comfort and suspension.
Horsepower
One excellent thing that you can always count on Mercedes Benz for? Their sporty vehicles know how to do fast well- even in cars that can carry a four-person family and a few bags of mulch. Under the hood of the C43, you’ll find 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, which easily allow the car to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in as little as 4.6 seconds. If you’re a family man or woman who still likes a little bit of thrill on the road, the C43 will definitely be able to uphold your expectations.
The bottom line? The Mercedes Benz AMG C43 handles like a dream and has the thrill to satisfy speed demons that require the space of a sedan. It can also be tuned without voiding the warranty, potentially adding 50-100 horsepower. However, it does sacrifice fuel economy. With a hefty price tag, consumers will have to seriously consider if their need for speed justifies the cost of this new model. Personally, the C43 handles well while combining luxury and performance. The only other car in its class that I would say is unequivocally “better” would be the big brother of the C43; the Mercedes Benz AMG C63.
