The new 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 is powered by a 3.0-liter twin turbocharged V6 engine that pumps out 396 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 384 lb-ft. of torque from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. That’s enough grunt to send the 4,145-pound sedan from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and onto a top speed that’s electronically limited to 155 mph.
The only transmission available is a nine-speed automatic unit that can be left in drive or controlled by shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel. A sport-tuned version of Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system sends 31 percent of the engine’s torque to the front wheels and 69 percent to the rear wheels. The E43 has bigger brakes than the E-Class, and it features a specific air suspension as well as a more direct steering system.
The E43 wouldn’t be eligible for an AMG emblem if it didn’t look the part. Designers have added specific grille accented by chromed pins, a new bumper with three air dams, side skirts, and a new rear diffuser. The cabin receives sports seats, red contrast stitching, and red seat belts.
The 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 is scheduled to arrive in showrooms early next year. It will be followed by a full-blown, range-topping model called E63 that’s expected to pack a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 tuned to develop at least 600 horsepower.
AMG E43 is a real deal of a car
Set to make its global debut at the 2016 New York Auto Show, the souped-up sedan is the third new Mercedes-Benz to sport the “43” badge, joining the AMG C43 Coupe (also available as a convertible) and the smaller AMG SLC 43. Much like its stablemates, the AMG E43 sports a turbocharged V-6 engine instead of the traditional V-8 and bridges the gap between the range-topping model of the standard lineup and the bonkers AMG E63.
While it might not be as hot as the upcoming E63, the E43 enables Mercedes access to a new niche and provides the perfect tool against the already popular S6. What’s more, it gives AMG enthusiasts a more affordable proposition to the high-priced E63, as well as a more fuel efficient performance sedan. But does it have what it takes to compete against the Audi S6 and BMW 550
Source: Top Speed