When you see the letters AMG, you think about power, luxury, and speed. Mercedes-Benz has attached these letters to its first high-performance variant of the E-Class – The E 43 4MATIC. This car lives up to the AMG name by offering pure Driving Performance coupled with cutting-edge technology.
With two new turbochargers and corresponding software applications, the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 biturbo engine delivers an output of 401 HP. The 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 a signature AMG driving experience.
With the five DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes “Eco,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport Plus,” and “Individual,” the driver can tailor the characteristics of the E 43 4MATIC Coupé to individual preferences at the tap of a finger. These modes modify key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension, and steering. Independently of the DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, the driver has the option of pressing the “M” button to switch directly to manual mode, in which gearshifts are executed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. The suspension set-ups can also be selected as necessary.
The DYNAMIC SELECT “Sport” and “Sport Plus” transmission modes are configured with a clear emphasis on driving dynamics on the new E 43 4MATIC. This results from an agile accelerator pedal characteristic with direct set-up and emotional gear shifting with reduced shift times, double-declutching, and deactivation of certain cylinders. The increased idling speed additionally enables the vehicle to move off quickly and provides for faster acceleration from a standing start (the new E 43 4MATIC reaches a speed of 62 mph in 4.6 seconds). The large braking system with internally ventilated compound brake discs ensures reliable and quick deceleration. Perforated discs in size 360 x 36 mm with 4-piston fixed calipers and AMG lettering are fitted on the front axle, while discs in size 360 x 26 mm with 1-piston fixed calipers feature at the rear.
The exterior looks of the E 43 4MATIC make it immediately recognizable as a member of the AMG family. Two elegant cross fins on the outer cooling openings enhance the car’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 spoiler lip on the trunk is painted in the body color.
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 microfibre 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 designed conjure up a sports car feel.
The new Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC will be available in September 2016.
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Frederick J. Goodall is the Editor-in-Chief of Mocha Man Style, media spokesperson, event host, photographer, and a top social media influencer in Houston, TX. He likes to write about fashion, cars, travel, and health.