The new Mercedes-AMG E43

Mercedes-AMG presents a new member of the E-Class family, the AMG E43 sedan. The E43 Sedan delivers the brand's hallmark Driving Performance with discrete technology combined with a distinctive design and everyday practicality. New turbochargers and software applications bump power output of the AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo engine to 396 hp. The standard AMG Performance 4MATIC® four-wheel drive system in the E43 combines optimal traction with high agility thanks to rear-biased torque distribution with a front-to-rear ratio of 31:69 percent. The AMG-enhanced 9G-TRONIC 9- speed automatic transmission with shorter shift times, AMG Sport Suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension and direct steering ratio also deliver driving pleasure in its purest form. The dynamic exterior design and sporty interior underscore the kinship with the AMG family.

"We have considerably expanded our model range for performance-oriented customers with our new "43" models, creating numerous new ways of entering the world of Mercedes-AMG. The new AMG E43 sedan adds a particularly versatile alternative for business and recreation to this extensive product range," says Tobias Moers, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Mercedes-AMG has increased the output of the AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo engine with two larger turbochargers and the matching engine and transmission software to 396 hp. The peak torque of 384 lb-ft is already available from 2,500 rpm.

This package guarantees performance on par with sports cars, complete with a noticeably sporty throttle response. The E43 sedan accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph.

AMG-specific powertrain

High on power, low on consumption

The AMG E43 Sedan features an AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo engine with, among other things, two large turbochargers, a higher boost pressure, and modified ECU software. Apart from increased peak output and torque, these enhancements have elevated the engine's dynamics and liveliness to the hallmark AMG level.

The AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo engine is characterized by a powerful output together with low consumption and emissions. The high power output of 396 hp is attributable to new larger turbochargers and higher boost pressure of 16 psi. Installed close to the engine, the two turbochargers react quickly to throttle inputs.

The NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder liners is also used in the Formula 1® engines of MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS team. Especially tough and wear-resistant, this coating reduces friction, contributing to higher efficiency. The same applies to the spray-guided multiple injection with up to 2900 psi of fuel pressure. Visually, the powerplant can be identified by a red aluminum insert on the engine cover and an AMG logo.

AMG-enhanced 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with shorter shift times

The new AMG E43 sedan is equipped with an AMG-enhanced 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, which has been tuned specifically for a more dynamic driving experience by way of a dedicated software application to reduce shift times. Courtesy of multiple downshifts, quick bursts of speed are possible with the 9G- TRONIC transmission. Thanks to precise ignition mapping, a double-clutching function allows for sporty gear changes in the "Sport," "Sport+" and "Manual" transmission modes.

"Manual" mode can be selected using a separate button on the center console. Gear change speeds are based on the selected transmission mode, and the driver can now change gears using the standard wheel-mounted shift paddles. Moreover, the transmission will stay in a selected gear until redline without shifting.

Rear-biased and agile: AMG Performance 4MATIC® 

The standard AMG Performance 4MATIC® permanent all-wheel drive system in the E43 sedan is distinguished by a rear-biased torque split of 31 percent on the front axle and 69 percent on the rear axle. This configuration provides for enhanced driving dynamics and higher lateral acceleration on the road as well as improved traction when accelerating.

The single-stage transfer case of the four-wheel drive system is flange-mounted to the transmission as a separate system. This add-on solution makes it easier to modify the torque split for each particular model, thus allowing even more individual characteristics for the respective model series. This new system is also more effective by virtue of improved efficiency, reduced friction and a lower weight.

Characteristics at the tap of a finger: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT

With the five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes "Eco," "Comfort," "Sport," "Sport+" and "Individual," the driver can tailor the characteristics of the E43 sedan to suit personal preferences. The available range extends from efficient and comfortable to very sporty by way of modifying key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering. Independent of AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive 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 paddle shifters on the steering wheel. The suspension set-ups can also be individually selected if desired.

The AMG DYNAMIC SELECT "Sport" and "Sport+" drive modes are configured with an even clearer emphasis on driving dynamics in the new E43 sedan. This results from an agile accelerator pedal characteristic and gearshifts with shorter shift times and double-declutching function on downshifts. Increased idling speed in "Sport+" mode enables the vehicle to accelerate quickly from a standstill.

In "Eco" mode, ECO start/stop and a "gliding" function help to reduce fuel consumption: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 37 and 99 mph, the clutch is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain and the car's engine speed is reduced to idle.

The "Comfort" drive mode supports a comfortable and consumption-optimized driving style with early upshifts and the ECO start/stop function. Suspension and steering are set up for an emphasis on comfort.

AMG Sport Suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL

High driving dynamics and superior comfort

For incresed agility, neutral cornering characteristics and higher traction levels with a spirited driving style, engineers in Affalterbach have designed an AMG Sport Suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL. The front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components have been optimized in terms of rigidity. Increased negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle further enhances lateral dynamics.

The multi-chamber air suspension system with a sporty spring/damper set-up and continuously variable damping combines excellent vehicle dynamics with a high level of ride quality. A harder spring rate when cornering and braking effectively reduces body roll and the elastokinematics of both axles have been designed to be more rigid in general. All these measures improve agility and boost overall dynamics. The damping at each wheel is automatically adjusted to suit the current driving situation and the condition of the road both rapidly and precisely, using two separate valves for the rebound and compression forces in the dampers. The damping characteristics can also be preselected in three modes — "Comfort," "Sport" and "Sport +," allowing for both excellent long-distance comfort and sporty driving dynamics.

Thanks to pneumatic self-levelling at the front and rear axle, the E43 sedan is able to maintain a constant ride height regardless of the vehicle load. To increase ground clearance the vehicle can be raised at the touch of a button when the engine is running, either when stationary or on the move. The level is lowered automatically when driving at higher speeds, improving handling stability.

Direct and with clear feedback: speed-sensitive sports steering

Electromechanical speed-sensitive sport steering features a variable ratio on the E43 sedan. It stands out with its precise, highly authentic feedback. Steering power assistance is available in a choice of two modes - "Comfort" or "Sport." The relevant characteristics are automatically activated depending on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode or can be personalized in the "Individual" mode.

Fade-resistant and reliable: the compound braking system

The agressive braking system with vented compound brake discs provides reliable and quick deceleration for the AMG E43 sedan. Cross-drilled and vented brake discs with 4-piston fixed calipers and AMG lettering are fitted at the front, and vented discs and single-piston floating calipers are found at the rear.

Exterior and interior

Sporty and distinctive

With its distinctive exterior design, the new E43 sedan is immediately recognizable as a member of the AMG family. Characteristic features include distinctive AMG styling as well as specific light-alloy wheels, underscoring the brand's progressive nature and performance.

Three large apertures in the front bumper emphasize the AMG E43's muscular and self-assured appearance. Two transverse fins and the front splitter are finished in silver chrome. A stylized vertical flic on the outer portion of the fascia emphasizes its visual presence and creates a link with motorsports. The diamond radiator grille with chromed pins, single transverse louver in high-gloss black with inserts in mirror-polished chrome and AMG logo are additional distinguishing features of the E43.

The side view of the AMG E43 is dominated by high-sheen 19-inch AMG twin five- spoke wheels with black accents. The front wheels are 8.0" x 19" with 245/40 ZR19 tires, while the rear wheels are 9.0" x 19" with 275/35 ZR19 tires. Other features include sporty side sill panels and a "BITURBO 4MATIC" badge on the front fenders.

The rear end with diffuser insert likewise adds a sporty touch, and twin tailpipes in mirror-polished chrome with a center bar helps to convey a particularly sporty overall aesthetic. The rear bumper trim has a silver chrome finish.

Sporty look with model-specific details: the interior design

The interior reinforces the dynamic caliber of the new E43 sedan with numerous individual details. Consistent use of trim in high-quality materials, as well as uniform colors and materials from the dashboard to the interior door panels, produces a wrap-around effect which makes the driver feel at one with the vehicle.

The interior of the AMG E43 is highlighted by black upholstery with red highlights as an appealing contrast. The standard multifunction sport steering wheel in black Nappa leather with partial perforations, red contrasting topstitching and a flat bottom is ideally suited to a spirited driving style. The steering wheel also features new Touch Control buttons, which control the entire infotainment system without the driver having to take their hands off the steering wheel.

The driver and front passenger find a secure position in the standard sport seats even when driving at speed thanks to the improved lateral support. Matching the seat design, the door center panels and dashboard are finished in MB-Tex with red topstitching. Aluminum sports pedals with black studs, black roof lining and red seat belts add further sporty touches.

The wide-screen cockpit with a high-resolution, multifunction double color display can be configured and have unique AMG graphics; numerous driving dynamics parameters can also be displayed here. In the AMG-specific control panel in the center console, the driver is able to use separate keys to select the functions for manual drive mode (Long-term M), adjustable suspension damping and 3-stage ESP®.

Optional features with a sporty emphasis

The available optional equipment also emphasizes the sporty character of the E43 sedan. These options range from an AMG® Performance Steering Wheel with DINAMICA inserts to carbon-fiber interior trim to multiple 20-inch wheels.

An AMG Carbon-Fiber Exterior Package is also available, featuring exterior mirror housings in carbon fiber and an AMG spoiler lip in carbon fiber.

The AMG E43 Sedan will be available in U.S. dealers by early 2017.