• Published On: 5 April 2017
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The 401hp E43 is an explosive package of power and personality.

Over the years, Mercedes’ performance division, AMG, has given us one explosive machine after the other – each with a thunderous V8 under the hood. Of late, however, the company is looking at an all new audience. This new range is more affordable and less powerful. The first car – the 367hp C43 – is already on sale in India at a price of ₹77.6 lakh, ex-showroom, and that will be followed by this car, the 401hp E43, at a price of approximately ₹85 lakh early next year. The E43 will be brought into India as a full import.

Power Torque
The three-litre turbo-petrol engine is what does duty in the C-class, but here, it makes 401hp. Power is transmitted to all four wheels and is managed by Merc’s own nine-speed automatic gearbox. The modifications aren't just limited to just the engine. A sports suspension with adjustable dampers and larger brakes are also part of the package. On the outside, there’s a more aggressive body kit, attractive AMG wheels and a new quad exhaust system.

On the inside
The biggest difference, however, from the E-class sold in India is that this one isn't built on the longer wheelbase. So, at the back, there's no reclining seat and no acres of legroom. The back seat, however, is extremely comfortable with good thigh support and a nicely inclined and padded backrest. And legroom is more than sufficient too. Step into the front, the cabin looks much sportier and a whole lot more attractive compared to the standard car. You get the S-class-like twin LCD panels on the dash that this car gets in other markets, and that transforms the look and feel of the cabin. The dash is covered in red highlights and red mood lighting. You also get sculpted sports seats, a flat-bottom steering, and attractive double-stitched leather on the dash and richly textured door pads as well.

From behind the wheel
This car is quick. The grip from the four-wheel-drive system and the zingy engine take this car from 0-100kph in 4.6 seconds. And what makes it even more enjoyable is that this motor loves to spin fast. In fact, the more you rev it, the smoother it feels. But there's no getting away from the fact that you miss the effortlessness of the V8-powered cars, especially the explosion or torque, and that sweet exhaust note.

Handling also differs from the bigger-engined car. In isolation though, the E43's steering is pretty good and because it is air-sprung, it feels more stable at higher speeds. The four-wheel-drive system, however, feels a bit slow to react and the E43 doesn't take corners with the same poise and grip as other AMG cars used to.

Yes, these aren’t the AMGs we’re accustomed to. But its more rounded character is likely to reach a broader range of customers. The car is still very comfortable to sit in, almost as comfy as a regular Mercedes. The controls are nice and light as well, and when you’re in the mood, this car can easily let loose. Ride, however, is a bit stiff at low speeds.

Is it worth the money?
If you’re someone who likes piloting a Mercedes, enjoy the smoothness and refinement of the regular car, but at the same time, you want your car to pack a lot more performance, this AMG makes a lot of sense. Sure, it isn't as sporty or as hard-edged as the V8-powered AMGs, and doesn’t possess its track-car-like handling either. But if you are looking for the perfect mid-point between one of AMG's extreme machines and the regular Merc E-class, this car is probably it.