Mercedes-AMG will unveil the first evolution of the new 2017 E-Class at the New York Auto Show. Called E43, the sedan is positioned between the regular E-Class and the upcoming E63.
The E43 is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that pumps out 396 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 384 lb-ft. of torque from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. That’s enough grunt to send the 4,145-pound sedan from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and on to a top speed that’s electronically limited to 155 mph.
The only transmission available is a nine-speed automatic unit that can be left in drive or controlled by shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel. A sport-tuned version of Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system sends 31 percent of the engine’s torque to the front wheels and 69 percent to the rear wheels. The E43 has bigger brakes than the E-Class, and it features a specific air suspension as well as a more direct steering system.
The E43 wouldn’t be eligible for an AMG emblem if it didn’t look the part. Designers have added specific grille accented by chromed pins, a new bumper with three air dams, side skirts, and a new rear diffuser. The cabin receives sport seats, red contrast stitching, and red seat belts.
The 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 is scheduled to arrive in showrooms early next year. It will be followed by a full-blown, range-topping model called E63 that’s expected to pack a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 tuned to develop at least 600 horsepower.
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