The new Mercedes - AMG E 43 4MATIC
With two new turbochargers and corresponding software applications, the supercharged six-cylinder engine delivers an output of 295 kW (401 hp). As ever, the standard-specification AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive combines optimum traction with high agility on the E 43, thanks to rear-biased torque distribution with a front-to-rear ratio of 31:69 percent. The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with shorter shift times, the retuned sports suspension based on the AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension and the more direct steering ratio also provide for signature AMG Driving Performance.
"The new E 43 4MATIC offers impressive driving dynamics coupled with cutting-edge efficiency. Twin turbocharging, features adopted from motorsport and the characteristic AMG design immediately indicate to our customers that the new E-Class from AMG offers pure Driving Performance coupled with cutting-edge technology and intense emotion," notes Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
On the E 43 4MATIC, Mercedes-AMG has upgraded the six-cylinder engine's output by 25 kW (34 hp) to 295 kW (401 hp) with the aid of two larger turbochargers and sophisticated software applications. The ample peak torque of 520 Newton meters is available right from a low engine speed of 2500 rpm.
This package guarantees performance on a par with many a sports car: the new E 43 4MATIC reaches a speed of 100 km/h from a standing start in 4.6 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
Sporty and distinctive: the exterior design
The looks of the E 43 4MATIC also render it immediately recognizable as a member of the AMG family. Apart from underscoring the powerful and self-assured appearance, three large openings in the front apron also ensure an optimum flow of air to the coolers. Two elegant cross fins on the outer cooling openings enhance the vehicle's visual presence. The diamond grille with chromed pins, a louvre in high-gloss black and the AMG lettering represent further hallmarks of the AMG 43 models.
The side view is dominated by high-sheen 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black. The rear end also features characteristic highlights, with two chrome-plated quad-flow exhaust tailpipes conveying a particularly sporty aesthetic. The rear apron trim in diffusor look comes in silver chrome, while the standard-specification spoiler lip on the boot lid is painted in the body color.
Sporty look with model-specific details: the interior design
The interior reinforces the dynamic caliber of the new E 43 4MATIC with numerous individual details. The driver and front passenger find a secure position in the sports seats even when driving at speed, thanks to the improved lateral support. The upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfiber in black (optionally: nappa leather) features a distinctive layout and red topstitching. To match the seat design, the door center panels and the dashboard are finished in ARTICO man-made leather with red topstitching. Exclusive pedals, a black roof lining and red seat belts add further sporty highlights.
The multifunction sports steering wheel in black nappa leather with red contrasting topstitching and featuring a flattened bottom section is ideally suited to an emphatic driving style. The AMG instrument cluster delivers all relevant information in a clearly arranged layout optimized for a dynamic driving style. Two tube-style round dials, the 11.4 cm (4.5-inch) multifunction color display, the RACETIMER and the 280 km/h scale in checkered-flag design conjure up a sports car feel.
High on power, low on consumption: the AMG 3.0-liter V6 biturbo engine
The V6 biturbo engine boasts a high power output combined with low fuel consumption and emissions. The high power output of 295 kW (401 hp) is attributable, among other things, to new, larger turbochargers and the higher charge-air pressure of 1.1 bar. Installed close to the engine, the two turbochargers are especially spontaneous in their response.
The NANOSLIDE® coating on the cylinder liners has also undergone further development in the Formula 1 V6 hybrid turbo engines from Mercedes-Benz. Especially tough and, therefore, wear-resistant, this coating also reduces friction, thereby contributing to higher efficiency. The same applies to the spray-guided multiple injection with up to 200 bar fuel pressure. The AMG powerplant can be identified by the red aluminum insert in the engine cover.
Short shift times, high efficiency: the 9G-TRONIC
"Manual" mode can be selected using a separate button in the center console. The gear changes are based on the selected transmission mode, and the driver can now change gear using the paddles on the steering wheel. Moreover, the transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches the limit.
More agility: the sports suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL
For added agility, more neutral cornering behavior and higher traction even when driving at speed, the developers in Affalterbach have designed a dedicated sports suspension on the basis of the AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension system. The Adaptive Damping System also features in a model-specific configuration and offers a choice of three modes – "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport Plus." This provides for broader scope between a high level of comfort for longer journeys and sporty driving dynamics.
The four-link front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components have been optimized in terms of rigidity. A more negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle enhances lateral dynamics. The elastokinematics of both axles have been designed to be more rigid in general. All these measures improve agility, and boost the dynamics.
Rear-biased and agile: AMG Performance 4MATIC
The standard-specification AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive features rear-biased torque distribution with a front/rear axle split of 31 to 69 percent. This configuration provides for enhanced driving dynamics and higher lateral acceleration on the road as well as improved traction when accelerating.
In combining the permanent four-wheel drive with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, the developers have opted for a change of concept: the single-stage transfer case of the four-wheel drive is flange-mounted on the 9G-TRONIC as a separate system. On earlier generations of vehicles, the transfer case was integrated into the 7G-TRONIC PLUS. The new add-on solution makes it easier to modify torque distribution according to the model, thus enabling even more individual characteristics for the respective model series.
The new system is also more effective than the earlier concept, by virtue of improved efficiency, reduced friction and a lower weight. Its compact design additionally means that it does not entail any space restrictions for passengers or luggage.
The data at a glance:
Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC
Engine V6 biturbo
Displacement 2,996 cc
Output 295 kW (401 hp) at 6,100 rpm
Peak torque 520 Nm at 2,500 - 5,000 rpm
Fuel consumption NEDC combined
8.3 l/100 km
CO2 emissions 189 g/km
Efficiency class D
Kerb weight (according to DIN/EC)
1765 kg*/1840 kg**
Acceleration 0-100 km/h 4.6 s
Top speed 250 km/h***
* ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90 % full, without driver and luggage);
** ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90 % full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg);
*** electronically limited
