2019 Mercedes-AMG C43 Sedan: Refined Performance and Design

Mercedes-AMG elevates its C-Class lineup with significant enhancements to the 2019 C43 Sedan, reinforcing its position as the most versatile and successful model series. This entry-level AMG model receives a comprehensive update, boasting a more aggressive exterior, a technologically advanced interior, and refined performance dynamics, all while maintaining the comfort expected of a Mercedes-Benz.

The 2019 C43 Sedan distinguishes itself immediately with a redesigned front fascia. The iconic AMG radiator grille now features a twin-louver design in matte iridium silver, commanding attention and asserting its AMG pedigree. The powerfully sculpted front bumper, complete with additional flics and side air curtains, not only contributes to the car’s assertive stance but also optimizes airflow around the front of the vehicle. The lower section of the bumper is finished in silver chrome, adding a touch of premium detailing.

Moving to the rear, the 2019 C43 Sedan showcases a new rear bumper design, characterized by round twin tailpipe trim elements finished in high-gloss chrome. The rear bumper incorporates side air curtains and a more pronounced diffuser, further enhancing aerodynamic efficiency. A subtle spoiler lip on the trunk lid, painted in body color, completes the sporty yet sophisticated rear aesthetic. For those seeking an even bolder look, the optional AMG Night Package amplifies the sporty character with high-gloss black finishes on the front splitter, spoiler lip, side skirt inserts, and rear bumper flics.

The profile of the 2019 C43 Sedan is enhanced by sporty side skirts and newly designed, aerodynamically optimized AMG light-alloy wheels. These wheels aren’t just for show; their carefully crafted aero rings and spoke geometry are wind tunnel tested to improve airflow, reduce drag, and enhance brake cooling. Mercedes-AMG offers three distinct aerodynamic wheel designs for the C43 Sedan, starting with standard 18-inch AMG wheels in tremolite grey. Optional 19-inch wheels are available in tantalite grey or high-gloss black, providing further customization and visual appeal.

Stepping inside the 2019 C43 Sedan reveals an interior that perfectly balances sporty ambiance with luxurious comfort. High-quality materials such as leather, DINAMICA microfiber, and aluminum accents create a premium and performance-oriented environment. Optional AMG Performance Seats offer exceptional lateral support for dynamic driving, featuring enhanced side bolsters and integrated head restraints. For the first time in the C43 Sedan, these performance seats can be ventilated in three stages when upholstered in leather, adding to the comfort features.

The cabin is further personalized with MB-Tex/DINAMICA microfiber upholstery with red topstitching, extending to the door center panels and dashboard. Aluminum sports pedals, trim elements in Natural Grain Black Ash Wood and Brushed Aluminum, a black roof liner, and red seat belts contribute to the sporty yet refined interior atmosphere. A wide array of individualization options are available, including new trim elements in Natural Grain Walnut Wood & Aluminum and Natural Grain Grey Oak Wood, alongside familiar options like Dark Brown Linden Wood trim and AMG Carbon Fiber/Aluminum trim. Leather upholstery choices expand with saddle brown/black joining the existing black, black with red topstitching, and cranberry red/black options.

Technological innovation is at the forefront of the 2019 C43 Sedan’s interior. The optional fully digital instrument cluster, featuring a 12.3-inch screen, offers three AMG-specific display styles: “Classic,” “Sport,” and “Supersport,” allowing drivers to customize their driving information. The central media display, now standard at 10.25 inches with high resolution, provides crisp and clear visuals for infotainment and vehicle functions.

The new generation AMG steering wheel in nappa leather, standard on the 2019 C43 Sedan, features a flat-bottom design, perforated grip areas, and intuitive Touch Control buttons. These buttons offer seamless control of the instrument cluster and multimedia system through swiping motions, mirroring the functionality found in the flagship S-Class. Galvanized steering wheel gearshift paddles further enhance the sporty driving experience, enabling manual gear changes.

Under the hood, the 2019 C43 Sedan retains the AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter V6 biturbo engine, now boosted to deliver 385 hp, a 23 hp increase over the previous model. Peak torque remains at 384 lb-ft, available across a broad rev range from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. This potent engine propels the C43 Sedan from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph. The engine is visually distinguished by an engine cover with a red aluminum insert and AMG lettering.

Power is channeled through the AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9-speed transmission, specifically tuned for dynamic driving. This transmission boasts rapid shift times and features a multiple downshift function for quick bursts of acceleration. The double-declutching function in “Sport” and “Sport+” modes enhances the driving experience with more emotional gear changes. AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs – “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” “Individual,” and the new “Slippery” mode – allow drivers to tailor the car’s characteristics to various driving conditions and preferences, adjusting engine response, transmission behavior, suspension settings, and steering feel.

The AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, standard on the 2019 C43 Sedan, features a rear-biased torque distribution (31:69 front/rear). This setup optimizes driving dynamics, enhancing lateral acceleration and traction for confident handling in diverse conditions. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sport suspension with adaptive adjustable damping further contributes to the C43 Sedan’s dynamic capabilities, offering a balance between sporty handling and comfortable ride quality. Drivers can select between “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport+” damper settings to fine-tune the suspension to their liking.

For track enthusiasts, the optional AMG TRACK PACE system acts as a virtual race engineer, logging performance data such as speed, acceleration, lap times, and sector times. This system allows drivers to analyze and improve their driving performance on closed circuits, displaying data on the multimedia display, instrument cluster, and head-up display. The 2019 Mercedes-AMG C43 Sedan is poised to deliver a refined and exhilarating driving experience, blending AMG performance with everyday usability and Mercedes-Benz luxury.

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