First stage of AMG Performance for the E-Class
Mercedes-AMG presents the new members of the current E-Class family, the E 43 4MATIC Saloon and Estate models. They deliver the brand’s hallmark Driving Performance with discrete technology, combined with a distinctive design and high everyday practicality.
New turbochargers and software applications bump the power output of the 3.0-litre-six-cylinder engine to 295 kW (401 hp).
The standard-specification AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive in the E 43 combines optimal traction with high agility thanks to rear-biased torque distribution with a front-to-rear ratio of 31:69 percent.
The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with shorter shift times, the retuned sports suspension based on the AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension and the more direct steering ratio also deliver driving pleasure in its purest form.
The dynamic exterior design and the 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 E 43 4MATIC Saloon and the new E 43 Estate add particularly versatile alternatives for business and recreation to this extensive product range”, says Tobias Moers, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
On both models, Mercedes-AMG has increased the output of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with two larger turbochargers and the matching engine and transmission software to 295 kW (401 hp). The peak torque of 520 Newton metres is already available from 2500 rpm.
This package guarantees performance on par with sports cars, complete with a noticeably sporty throttle response The Saloon model reaches a speed of 100 km/h from a standing start in 4.6 seconds, the Estate model in 4.7 seconds. Both models have an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.
The data at a glance:
| Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC Saloon | Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC Estate | |
| Engine | Twin-turbo V-6 | Twin-turbo V-6 |
| Displacement | 2996 cc | 2996 cc |
| Output | 295 kW (401 hp) at 6100 rpm | 295 kW (401 hp) at 6100 rpm |
| Peak torque | 520 Nm at 2500-5000 rpm | 520 Nm at 2500-5000 rpm |
| Fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/ combined | 10.9/6.7/8.2 l/100 km | 11.0/7.0/8.4 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions, combined | 187 g/km | 192 g/km |
| Efficiency class | D | D |
| Kerb weight (according to DIN/EC) | 1765 kg* / 1840 kg** | 1855 kg* / 1930 kg** |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 4.6 s | 4.7 s |
| Top speed | 250 km/h*** | 250 km/h*** |
* roadworthy condition, fuel tank 90% full, without driver; ** roadworthy condition, fuel tank 90% full, with driver (75 kg); *** electronically limited
AMG-specific powertrain
High on power, low on consumption
The AMG engineers have further advanced the 3.0-litre twin-turbo V-6 engine with, among other things, two larger turbochargers, a higher boost pressure, and accordingly modified software applications.
Apart from output and torque, they consequently also elevated the engine’s dynamics and liveliness to the hallmark AMG level.
The AMG 3.0-litre twin-turbo V-6 engine is characterised by a powerful output together with low consumption and emissions. The high power output of 295 kW (401 hp) is attributable, among other things, to new, larger turbochargers and the higher charge-air pressure of 1.1 bar.
Installed close to the engine, the two turbochargers are especially spontaneous in their response.
NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder liners is also used in the Formula 1 V-6 hybrid turbo engines from MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS. Especially tough and therefore wear-resistant, this coating also reduces friction, thereby contributing to higher efficiency.
The same applies to the spray-guided multiple injection with up to 200 bar fuel pressure. The AMG power unit can be identified by the engine cover with red aluminium insert and AMG lettering.
9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with shorter shift times
The new E 43 4MATIC models are equipped with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, which the Mercedes-AMG developers have tuned specifically for a more dynamic driving experience.
They significantly shortened the shift times of the 9-speed transmission by means of a dedicated software application. By skipping gears during downshifts, the 9G-TRONIC enables fast interim bursts of speed.
With a defined ignition intervention, the double-declutching function permits more emotionally appealing and faster gear changes in the drive modes “Sport”, “Sport Plus” and “Manual”.
“Manual” mode can be selected using a separate button in the centre console. The gear changes are based on the selected drive mode, and the driver can now change gears using the standard paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
Moreover, the transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches the limiter. As a result, the E 43 can be driven in a wide range of driving styles from highly comfortable to very sporty, depending on the selected drive mode.
Rear-biased and agile: AMG Performance 4MATIC
The standard-specification AMG Performance 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive in the E 43 4MATIC Saloon and Estate 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 9G‑TRONIC 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.
The new system is also more effective by virtue of improved efficiency, reduced friction and a lower weight. Its compact design additionally means that it does not entail any space restrictions for passengers or luggage.
Characteristics at the tap of a finger: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT
With the five DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes “Eco”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport Plus” and “Individual”, the driver can tailor the characteristics of the E 43 4MATIC models to suit personal preferences.
The available range extends from efficient and comfortable to very sporty. This modifies key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering.
Independently of the 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 selected if desired.
The DYNAMIC SELECT “Sport” and “Sport Plus” drive modes are configured with an even clearer emphasis on driving dynamics in the new E 43 4MATIC Saloon and Estate.
This results from an agile accelerator pedal characteristic curve with direct set-up and gearshifts with shorter shift times and double-declutching function on downshifts.
The increased idling speed in “Sport Plus” mode additionally enables the vehicle to move off particularly quickly while ensuring faster acceleration from rest.
In “Eco” mode, on the other hand, the ECO start/stop function and the coasting function make for reduced fuel consumption: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 60 and 160 km/h, the clutch is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain.
At the same time the electronics reduce the engine speed to idling level, and the driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.
The “Comfort” drive mode supports a comfortable and consumption-optimised driving style, among other things, with early upshifts and the active ECO start/stop function. Suspension and steering are set up for an emphasis on comfort.
AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL
High driving dynamics and superior comfort
For more agility, more neutral cornering characteristics and higher traction even with a spirited driving style, the Affalterbach developers have designed a special sports suspension on the basis of AIR BODY CONTROL.
The front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components have been optimised in terms of rigidity. A more negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle 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, for example when cornering and braking, effectively reduces body roll. The elastokinematics of both axles have been designed to be more rigid in general.
All these measures improve agility, and boost the dynamics. The damping at each wheel is automatically adjusted to suit the current driving situation and the condition of the road.
This is done 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 Plus”, allowing a wider spread between excellent long-distance comfort and sporty driving dynamics.
Thanks to pneumatic self-levelling at the front and rear axle, the E 43 4MATIC models maintain a constant ride height regardless of the vehicle load.
To increase ground clearance, for example to negotiate steep entrances into underground car parks or on ramps, the vehicle level 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. This improves handling stability thanks to a lower centre of gravity.
Direct and with clear feedback: speed-sensitive sports steering
The electromechanical speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable ratio on the E 43 4MATIC Saloon and Estate. 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 DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode or can be personalised in “Individual” mode.
Manual torque is increased in “Sport” mode, providing more feedback on driving conditions.
Fade-resistant and reliable: the compound braking system
The large braking system with vented compound brake discs provides reliable and quick deceleration of the E 43 4MATIC models. Cross-drilled and vented brake discs of size 360 x 36 mm with 4-piston fixed callipers and AMG lettering are fitted at the front, with cross-drilled and vented discs of size 360 x 26 mm and single-piston floating callipers at the rear.
Exterior and interior
Sporty and distinctive
With their distinctive exterior design, the new E 43 4MATIC Saloon and Estate are immediately recognisable as members of the AMG family.
Characteristic features include the distinctive AMG styling as well as the specific light-alloy wheels. They underscore the brand’s progressive nature and performance.
Three large apertures in the front apron emphasise its muscular and self-assured appearance. Two transverse fins and the front splitter are finished in silver chrome.
A stylised vertical flic on the outer black meshes emphasises the visual presence and creates a link with motorsport. The diamond radiator grille with chromed pins, the single transverse louvre in high-gloss black with inserts in mirror-polished chrome and the AMG logo are further distinguishing features of the E 43 4MATIC models.
The side view is dominated by high-sheen 19-inch AMG five-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black. The sizes are 8.0 J x 19 H2 ET20 with 245/40 ZR 19 tyres at the front, and 9.0 J x 19 H2 ET49 with 275/35 ZR 19 tyres at the rear.
Other features include sporty side sill panels and the “BITURBO 4MATIC” badge on the front wings.
The rear end with diffuser insert likewise adds sporty touches, with two exhaust tailpipes in mirror-polished chrome with a centre bar conveying particularly sporty aesthetics. The rear apron trim has a silver chrome finish.
Sporty look with model-specific details: the interior design
The interior reinforces the dynamic calibre of the new E 43 4MATIC models with numerous individual details. Consistent use of trim in authentic materials, as well as uniform colours 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 predominant interior colour black has red highlights as an appealing contrast. The multifunction sport steering wheel in black nappa leather with partial perforations, red contrasting topstitching and flat bottom is ideally suited to a spirited driving style.
It features the new Touch Control buttons, which control the entire infotainment system without the driver having to take his hands off the steering wheel.
The driver and front passenger find a secure position in the sports seats even when driving at speed, thanks to the improved lateral support. The upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre in black with red topstitching (optionally: nappa leather with trim strips in DINAMICA microfibre with red piping) has a distinctive seat upholstery layout and AMG badges in the front seat backrests.
Matching the seat design, the door centre panels and dashboard are finished in ARTICO man-made leather with red topstitching. Aluminium sports pedals with black studs, a black roof lining and red seat belts add further sporty touches.
The wide-screen cockpit with a high-resolution, multifunction double colour display can be individually configured and has its own AMG graphics. Numerous driving dynamics parameters can also be displayed here.
In the AMG-specific control panel in the centre console, the driver is able to use separate keys to select the functions for manual drive mode (Long-term M), AMG RIDE CONTROL adjustable damping and 3-stage ESP®.
Optional features with a sporty emphasis
The optionally available equipment also emphasises the sporty character of the E 43 4MATIC models. These range from AMG Performance seats with increased lateral support and nappa leather upholstery to carbon-fibre interior and exterior trim and 20-inch bichromatic wheels.
- AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package:
- Exterior mirror housings in carbon fibre
- AMG spoiler lip in carbon fibre (Saloon)
- AMG interior:
- Performance seats for driver and front passenger with more heavily contoured seat shape for enhanced lateral support, integrated head restraints and “AMG” badge in the backrests
- Performance steering wheel, black nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre
- Carbon-fibre trim
- Carbon-fibre centre console with aluminium trim with trapezium grain
- Instrument panel, black nappa leather with red contrasting topstitching
Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC Saloon
Engine
| Number of cylinders/arrangement | 6/V, 4 valves per cylinder | |
| Displacement | cc | 2996 |
| Bore x stroke | mm | 88.0 x 82.1 |
| Rated output | kW/hp | 295/401 at 6100 rpm |
| Rated torque | Nm | 520 at 2500-5000 rpm |
| Compression ratio | 10.7: 1 | |
| Mixture formation | Microprocessor-controlled petrol injection, forced induction with two turbochargers |
Power transmission
| Driven wheels | AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque split 31:69 (f:r) | |
| Transmission | 9G-TRONIC | |
| Gear ratios | Final-drive ratio 1st gear 2nd gear 3rd gear 4th gear 5th gear 6thgear 7th gear 8th gear 9th gear Reverse gear | 3.07 5.35 3.24 2.25 1.64 1.21 1.00 0.86 0.72 0.60 –4.80 |
Suspension
| Front axle | AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL with three-link axle, multi-chamber air bellows, twin-tube gas-filled shock absorbers, and adaptive adjustable damping | |
| Rear axle | AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL with multi-link axle, multi-chamber air bellows, single-tube gas-filled shock absorbers, and adaptive adjustable damping | |
| Braking system | Hydraulic dual-circuit braking system with vacuum booster, stepped master brake cylinder; 360-mm disc brakes at front, vented and cross-drilled, four-piston aluminium fixed callipers; 360-mm vented and cross-drilled disc brakes at rear, single-piston aluminium floating callipers; electric parking brake, ABS, 3-stage ESP® | |
| Steering | Electromechanical speed-sensitive sports power steering with toothed rack, variable steering ratio (14.5:1 at dead centre) and variable power assist | |
| Wheels | Tyres | front: 8.0.J x 19; rear: 9.0 J x 19 | front: 245/40 ZR 19; rear: 275/35 ZR 19 | |
Dimensions and weights
| Wheelbase | mm | 2939 |
| Track, front/rear | mm | 1628/1598 |
| Overall length | mm | 4942 |
| Overall width | mm | 1860 |
| Overall height | mm | 1447 |
| Turning circle | m | 12.5 |
| Boot capacity* | l | 540 |
| Kerb weight acc. to DIN** | kg | 1765 |
| Kerb weight acc. to EC*** | kg | 1840 |
| Payload (based on kerb weight acc. to EC) | kg | 575 |
| Gross vehicle weight | kg | 2415 |
| Tank capacity/of which reserve | l | 66/7 |
Performance and fuel consumption
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | s | 4.6 |
| Top speed | km/h | 250**** |
| Fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined | l/100 km | 11.0-10.9 / 6.8-6.7 / 8.4-8.2 |
| Combined CO2 emissions | g/km | 192-187 |
| Efficiency class | D |
*according to VDA measuring method; ** fuel tank 90% full, without driver; *** fuel tank 90% full, with driver (75 kg); ****electronically limited
Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC Estate
Engine
| Number of cylinders/arrangement | 6/V, 4 valves per cylinder | |
| Displacement | cc | 2996 |
| Bore x stroke | mm | 88.0 x 82.1 |
| Rated output | kW/hp | 295/401 at 6100 rpm |
| Rated torque | Nm | 520 at 2500-5000 rpm |
| Compression ratio | 10.7: 1 | |
| Mixture formation | Microprocessor-controlled petrol injection, forced induction with two turbochargers |
Power transmission
| Driven wheels | AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque split 31:69 (f:r) | |
| Transmission | 9G-TRONIC | |
| Gear ratios | Final-drive ratio 1st gear 2nd gear 3rd gear 4th gear 5th gear 6th gear 7th gear 8th gear 9th gear Reverse gear | 3.07 5.35 3.24 2.25 1.64 1.21 1.00 0.86 0.72 0.60 –4.80 |
Suspension
| Front axle | AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL with three-link axle, multi-chamber air bellows, twin-tube gas-filled shock absorbers, and adaptive adjustable damping | |
| Rear axle | AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL with multi-link axle, multi-chamber air bellows, single-tube gas-filled shock absorbers, and adaptive adjustable damping | |
| Braking system | Hydraulic dual-circuit braking system with vacuum booster, stepped master brake cylinder; 360-mm disc brakes at front, vented and cross-drilled, four-piston aluminium fixed callipers; 360-mm vented and cross-drilled disc brakes at rear, single-piston aluminium floating callipers; electric parking brake, ABS, 3-stage ESP® | |
| Steering | Electromechanical speed-sensitive sports power steering with toothed rack, variable steering ratio (14.5:1 at dead centre) and variable power assist | |
| Wheels | Tyres | front: 8.0.J x 19; rear: 9.0 J x 19 | front: 245/40 ZR 19; rear: 275/35 ZR 19 | |
Dimensions and weights
| Wheelbase | mm | 2939 |
| Track, front/rear | mm | 1600/1609 |
| Overall length | mm | 4958 |
| Overall width | mm | 1852 |
| Overall height | mm | 1461 |
| Turning circle | m | 11.6 |
| Boot capacity* | l | 640-1820 |
| Kerb weight acc. to DIN** | kg | 1855 |
| Kerb weight acc. to EC*** | kg | 1930 |
| Payload (based on kerb weight acc. to EC) | kg | 575 |
| Gross vehicle weight | kg | 2505 |
| Tank capacity/of which reserve | l | 66/7 |
Performance and fuel consumption
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | s | 4.7 |
| Top speed | km/h | 250**** |
| Fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined | l/100 km | 11.1-11.0 / 7.1-7.0 / 8.6-8.4 |
| Combined CO2 emissions | g/km | 197-192 |
| Efficiency class | D |
*according to VDA measuring method; ** fuel tank 90% full, without driver; *** fuel tank 90% full, with driver (75 kg); ****electronically limited
