Soon after the Audi S4’s launch announcement, Mercedes comes into the scene with a remarkable similar engined sportscar: the C 43 4Matic Coupe. It’s powered by a similar-looking engine as the S4’s, and it’s capable of similar performance. So, what’s it gonna be: sedan or coupe?

The AMG coupe squeezes 367 hp from the V6 Twin-Turbo, 3 liters engine and sends them to all the wheels through the new 9G-Tronic transmission. This combination boosts the coupe in 4.7 seconds to 100 km/h, while the 520 Nm peak torque is available between 2000 and 4200 rpm. Despite these dynamic performances, the NEDC measured fuel consumption remains as low as 7.8 l/100km, meaning 178 g/km CO2.


The engine features an interesting highlight: its cylinders’ surface is coated with Nanoslide, a solution used in the Mercedes-AMG-Petronas’F1 car. Therefore, the engine is more wear-resistant, while becoming more efficient. Beyond the short shifting time of the new 9-speed transmission, the Sport and Sport Plus modes feature a double-declutching function, which enhances the driving experience. If the driver wants to feel like Lewis Hamilton, he can shift up and down via the buttons on the steering wheel, without the software shifting automatically at engine’s speed limit.

More, there are five programs to choose from, when it comes to dynamics. They modify the engine, transmission, steering and suspension’s setup to best fit to economical, confortable or sporty driving styles. The sailing function, available in the ECO mode, disengages the engine from the powertrain, when the driver releases the accelerator between 60 and 160 km/h. This way, the engine’s idle speed reduces the fuel consumption.