Peter Palmer: First Look: 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43

The 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 is the first high performance variant of the new, 10th generation E-Class. It has been on display at 2016 New York International Auto Show.

What’s New

The Mercedes-AMG E43 is a step above the regular E-Class, which debuted earlier this year at the 2016 North American International Auto Show. Unlike the base E-Class, which is powered by a turbocharged 2.0 L four-cylinder, the Mercedes-AMG E43 features an AMG tuned 3.0 L BiTurbo V6.

To distinguish the E43 from its less powerful siblings, AMG designers have added a special body kit which includes a front bumper, with three large openings, that feed air into the engine and brake coolers. Two cross fins on the outer cooling openings enhance the vehicle’s presence. The side profile is dominated by 19 inch, AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in high-gloss black. The rear fascia is highlighted by dual chrome-plated/quad-flow exhaust pipes, silver chrome diffuser, and body colored rear spoiler.

All Mercedes-AMG 43 models are further distinguished by a diamond grille with chromed pins, a louver in high-gloss black, and AMG lettering.

“The new AMG E43 offers impressive driving dynamics coupled with cutting-edge efficiency. Twin turbocharging features adopted from Motorsport and characteristic AMG design immediately indicate to our customers that the new E-Class from AMG offers pure Driving Performance,” said Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmBH.

2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 Left Front Three Quarters

2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 Left Rear Three Quarters

Performance

The Mercedes-AMG E43 is powered by a 3.0 L BiTurbo V6 which produces 396 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The engine is backed by AMG tuned 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and sends power to all four wheels via an AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. Torque split is fixed at 31% to the front and 69% to the rear.

When compared to the regular 3.0 L BiTurbo V6 engine, the E43 produces an additional 34 horsepower for a total of 396 horsepower – with the aid of two larger turbochargers and sophisticated AMG software. Peak torque of 384 lb-ft is available between 2500-5000 rpms.

Mercedes-AMG engineers estimate the E43 will sprint to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds but top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.

Interior

Inside, the sporty intentions of the Mercedes-AMG E43 continue as front occupants are welcomed to high bolstered sport seats with MB-Tex/DINAMICA inserts or optional nappa leather. To match the seats, the door card inserts and dashboard are also finished in MB-TEX with red top-stitching. Exclusive pedals, black roof lining, and red seat belts complete the interior enhancements.

The flat bottom, multi-function sport steering wheel with Touch Control is wrapped in black leather with red top-stitching, complementing the rest of the interior design. The AMG instrument cluster, available in a fully-digital, high-resolution 12.3 inch screen, displays all relevant information in a clearly arranged layout for any dynamic driving style.

Optional Features

The 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 comes well equipped from the factory. However, if one wishes to further customize their performance executive sedan, they can choose from AMG seats with increased lateral support, nappa leather upholstery, and on the outside, they can upgrade to 20 inch AMG wheels.

Availability

The Mercedes-AMG E43 is currently on display at the 2016 New York International Auto Show but will be available in U.S. dealerships by early 2017.

*Rahul Raman is the Founder of CARS 360 Mke, an automotive news outlet. He is a regular contributor to Automoblog and the author of our First Look series.