Time passes and cylinders die. For obvious reasons of environmental standards, Mercedes-AMG plays the downsizing card by using supercharged four-cylinder blocks that gradually take up space under the hood of its sports cars. While the four-cylinder version has until now been reserved for the “small” models, namely the A 35, A 45 and other CLA 45, it has recently been included in more prestigious versions.

We recently saw the Mercedes-AMG SL equipped with this engine, and it is now the turn of the C-Class to receive a four-cylinder for its 43 version. This is the wisest variant before the amazing C 63.

This entry-level version quits the 3.0-liter V6 and resumes the 2.0-liter four-cylinder. It is settled in longitudinal position, using the same technology from F1, with a turbo and a small electric motor. Accompanied by a 48V micro-hybridization system with a 14-horsepower temporary boost, the set develops 408 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque.

The car receives a nine-speed automatic transmission and has four-wheel drive thanks to the 4Matic system. The controlled suspension comes standard, as do the steering rear wheels. The 0 to 100 km/h is shot down in 4.6 seconds, a tenth better than the previous generation. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h and can be increased to 265 km/h by selecting the right option. Aesthetically, the Mercedes-AMG C 43 is distinguished by a specific fitting: Panamericana calender, reviewed bumper, and specific wheels from 18 to 20 inches, two double exhaust pipes. Inside, the atmosphere is always sporty with touches of red, bucket seats and a specific AMG steering wheel.

The car will be available in sedan or station wagon. Prices have not yet been announced. They will be by the end of the year when this model will hit the market. Thanks to micro-hybridization, CO2 emissions are down, which should limit its malus to around 20,000 euros in 2022.