When the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class debuted in Detroit, the automaker promised more intense variations would follow the E300 and E300 4Matic models that arrive here this summer. The first of those is the 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43, which debuts at the New York Auto Show. This hotter version of M-B’s sophisticated midsize luxury sedan goes on sale here early next year with a stout 396 horsepower, 4Matic all-wheel drive and a host of other AMG-enhanced touches that promise to keep it in good stead as it challenges rivals the Audi S6, BMW M5 and Lexus GS-F.
3.0-liter twin-turbo V6
At the heart of the new Mercedes-AMG E43 is the same 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 found in the new AMG C43 Coupe and Cabriolet. However, for E43 duty AMG has revised the software and employs larger turbos that deliver 16 psi of boost to pump the pony count from 362 to 396. Torque remains at a healthy 384 lb-ft, which here too is on hand from 2,500-5,000 rpm. The engine features start/stop technology and is backed by an AMG-optimized 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. Like the unit in the C43, it is a paddle-shift offering five program modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and Manual as well as a gliding function that improves mileage. Motive force is sent to the four corners via a rear-biased AMG Performance 4Matic AWD system allowing the Mercedes-AMG E43 to charge from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.
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To fully exploit all of its formidable might, the new Mercedes-AMG E43 rides on AMG sport-spec underpinnings based on a tweaked Mercedes Air Body Control air suspension with Adaptive Damping featuring driver-selectable Comfort/Sport/Sport Plus settings. It also has speed-sensitive power steering with Comfort and Sport settings.
AMG attitude abounds
Visually, the new Mercedes-AMG E43 follows the well-established AMG form, gaining more aggressive fascias highlighted by a unique grille and larger air intakes up front and a silver diffuser framed by chrome dual-paired exhaust outlets in the rear. The car rides on 19-inch/5-spoke AMG light-alloy rims finished in gloss black, while a 20-inch upgrade will be available. Inside, the E43 features deeply bolstered sport seats done in MB-Tex with Dinamica inserts (full AMG Sport Buckets and Nappa leather are optional), a multifunction sport steering wheel with Touch Control, AMG instrument cluster and Exclusive pedals all set off with red seatbelts and stitching and a black headliner. Pricing for the 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 will be released closer to the on-sale date.
More Mercedes-Benz and AMG News…
The remade 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class will replace the existing GL-Class
The all-new 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class goes on sale here in November
The new 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe lineup include AMG Sport-spec touches
