The Mercedes-AMG C43 line was initially met with skepticism from purists who believed AMG should only represent the most extreme performance versions. However, after experiencing the 2017 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe, it’s clear that this model, while a step below the top-tier AMGs, still delivers a thrilling driving experience and wears the AMG badge with pride. It offers a compelling blend of performance and luxury at a more accessible price point, making the AMG experience available to a broader audience.
The 2017 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe strikes a balance between aggressive styling and everyday usability, making it a desirable sports coupe.
2017 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe: A Stiffly Sprung Performer
The 2017 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe successfully bridges the gap between the standard Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe and the more hardcore AMG models. It’s a car that doesn’t compromise on performance, boasting a potent engine and sharp handling. However, this performance focus comes with a significant trade-off: a suspension system that prioritizes track-like stiffness over everyday comfort. This review delves into the nuances of the C43 Coupe, exploring its design, performance, technology, and, most importantly, its ride quality.
Exterior Design: Aggressive Elegance
The 2017 C43 Amg Coupe distinguishes itself from the standard C-Class Coupe with subtle yet effective visual enhancements. The design language is undeniably AMG, projecting an image of performance without being overly ostentatious. Compared to the base C300 Coupe, the C43 features more aggressive front and rear bumpers, adding a sporty edge to its profile. The black mirror caps and window surrounds further contribute to its dynamic appearance.
The optional Night Package, featured on the test vehicle, enhances the visual appeal with its blacked-out front wing, rear diffuser insert, and tailpipes. This subtle customization, available for a reasonable price, adds a touch of stealth and aggression to the overall aesthetic. While the test car was finished in Designo Diamond White, a premium paint option, even the standard white paint offers a crisp and elegant look.
Interior Ambiance: Sporty Compactness
Inside the 2017 C43 AMG Coupe, the monochromatic theme continues, creating a focused and sporty environment. The predominantly black interior is accented with red stitching on the MB-Tex vinyl seats and trim, providing a subtle yet noticeable touch of sportiness. The MB-Tex material itself is noteworthy, feeling surprisingly luxurious and comparable to leather found in many mid-range vehicles. Gloss black trim elements add a premium feel, although they are prone to fingerprints, which can be a minor inconvenience for some owners.
The interior design prioritizes style and sportiness, resulting in a somewhat compact front cabin. Rear seats are best suited for small children or cargo, mirroring the limited rear passenger space in vehicles like the Toyota 86 or Porsche 911. The panoramic sunroof is a welcome addition, helping to mitigate any feelings of claustrophobia and adding to the sense of spaciousness, although taller drivers might still find the cabin a bit snug.
The interior of the 2017 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe combines sporty accents with premium materials, although space can be a bit tight for taller occupants.
Performance and Handling: Engineered for Excitement, Tuned for Firmness
The heart of the 2017 C43 AMG Coupe is its 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This powerplant delivers a robust 362 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for spirited driving. The standard all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, effectively transferring the engine’s output to the road. Paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission, the C43 AMG Coupe offers seamless acceleration and responsive gear changes.
The transmission offers multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. While Comfort mode is suitable for most driving situations, Sport and Sport+ modes hold gears for longer durations, which can be less ideal for relaxed commuting. For drivers seeking a more engaging experience, paddle shifters allow for manual gear selection. Fuel economy is typical for a performance vehicle in this class, with EPA ratings of 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. Real-world city driving, especially with enthusiastic acceleration, may result in figures closer to 15 mpg.
The steering is quick and responsive, and the brakes offer a grabby yet consistent feel, contributing to the car’s agile and eager character. However, the defining characteristic of the C43 AMG Coupe’s driving experience is its firm suspension. Regardless of the selected suspension mode – Comfort, Sport, or Sport+ – the ride remains consistently harsh, particularly on less-than-perfect road surfaces. This stiffness, while beneficial for track driving and sharp handling, compromises comfort for daily driving, especially in areas with uneven pavement.
The optional 19-inch wheels and low-profile summer tires on the test vehicle likely exacerbate the ride firmness. Choosing the standard 18-inch wheels could potentially improve ride comfort. Drivers prioritizing comfort over ultimate track performance should consider leaving the suspension in Comfort mode for everyday driving.
Technology and Features: A Mix of Modern and Dated
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG Coupe offers a range of technology features, with the level of sophistication largely dependent on selected options packages. The test vehicle featured the mid-range Premium 2 package, which includes SiriusXM-based traffic and weather updates, a touch-capable infotainment controller, power-folding mirrors, an electronically operated trunk, and ambient lighting.
For advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, the Premium 3 package is required, representing a significant additional cost. While some of these safety technologies are now standard on mainstream vehicles, they remain optional extras in the 2017 C43 AMG Coupe. Automatic emergency braking is a welcome standard safety feature.
The COMAND infotainment system in the 2017 C43 AMG Coupe represents an earlier iteration of Mercedes-Benz’s system. While functional, it lacks the visual appeal and streamlined interface of newer Mercedes models equipped with dual 12-inch screens. The 8.4-inch screen in the test vehicle feels somewhat dated by current standards. Menu navigation can be occasionally confusing, and the touchpad controller is not always intuitive. Internet-connected services can also be inconsistent in their performance.
The infotainment system in the 2017 C43 AMG Coupe, while functional, reflects an earlier generation of Mercedes-Benz technology.
Personal Configuration: Tailoring the C43 AMG Coupe
The base price of the 2017 C43 AMG Coupe starts at $55,900, but customization options can quickly increase the final price. Personalizing the C43 AMG Coupe allows buyers to tailor the vehicle to their preferences, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The reviewer’s ideal configuration provides insights into how to enhance the C43 experience.
Opting for Dakota Brown paint offers a cost-saving alternative to the premium Designo Diamond White, while still providing an attractive exterior finish. Retaining the AMG Night Package adds visual flair without significant expense. Inside, black ash wood trim replaces the gloss black, addressing the fingerprint issue. Switching to black seatbelts from red offers a more understated interior aesthetic.
The Parking Assist package is a worthwhile addition for enhanced parking convenience. The Multimedia Package, while adding to the cost, upgrades the infotainment system. Finally, the sports exhaust system is a recommended option for AMG enthusiasts seeking a more pronounced engine note and a more visceral driving experience. This personalized configuration results in a price of $62,680, only slightly higher than the test vehicle, demonstrating that careful option selection can enhance the C43 AMG Coupe without dramatically increasing the price.
It’s important to note that Mercedes-Benz’s online configurator may reflect the 2018 C43 Coupe, with potential variations in pricing and package availability compared to the 2017 model. For buyers considering pre-owned or dealer stock vehicles, option selection will be limited. Ordering directly from the factory allows for maximum customization to ensure the C43 AMG Coupe aligns perfectly with individual preferences.
Upgrading to a sports exhaust system can amplify the auditory experience of the 2017 C43 AMG Coupe’s powerful engine.
Competitive Landscape: 2017 C43 AMG Coupe vs. Rivals
The 2017 C43 AMG Coupe competes in the mid-tier performance coupe segment, facing rivals from Audi, Infiniti, and BMW, as well as more performance-focused options from Cadillac and Lexus at a higher price point. The Audi S5 Coupe, priced slightly lower, offers comparable performance and standard automatic braking, along with better fuel economy.
The Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400 provides even more horsepower at a similar price point, but falls short of the C43 AMG Coupe in interior quality and infotainment sophistication. The BMW 440i Coupe xDrive, while priced lower and more fuel-efficient, offers less power and is not marketed as a direct performance competitor to the C43 AMG Coupe.
Stepping up in price opens the door to more potent competitors like the Cadillac ATS-V Coupe and Lexus RC F, offering significantly higher horsepower figures and track-oriented performance. However, within its price range, the 2017 C43 AMG Coupe stands out as a compelling option for those seeking a balance of AMG performance, luxury, and style.
Conclusion: A Compelling Blend of Performance and Compromise
The 2017 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe is a worthy contender in the sports coupe market. It delivers on the promise of AMG performance with its potent V6 engine, sharp handling, and aggressive styling. However, the trade-off for this performance is a notably stiff ride, which can be a significant drawback for daily driving comfort, especially on less-than-perfect roads.
For buyers prioritizing driving dynamics and the AMG experience at a more accessible price point, the 2017 C43 AMG Coupe is a strong choice. However, potential owners should be aware of the firm suspension and consider whether it aligns with their driving preferences and typical road conditions. If ride comfort is a primary concern, exploring alternatives with more compliant suspensions might be advisable. Ultimately, the 2017 C43 AMG Coupe offers a compelling package, balancing performance and luxury, but with a firm ride that defines its character.
