►Follow us on Instagram @autogefuehl and @thomas.letsgo ►Subscribe here: czcams.com/users/autogefuehl ►Normal Mercedes C-Class W206 driving review: czcams.com/video/hFp2X2uqg9w/video.html ►Compare the BMW M340i: czcams.com/video/IwMsLlH1zVs/video.html 00:00 Launch Control (Race Start) 00:11 Mercedes C43 AMG in Selenite Grey Magno 01:05 Length and wheels 01:41 Chrome vs Night package look 02:03 Sedan vs estate (T-Modell) 02:32 Rear design 03:12 Autogefuehl fake exhaust police 03:35 Adaptive suspension and rear-axle steering 04:34 4-cylinder engine with F1 tech 06:06 Key fob and doors 06:40 Steering wheel 07:00 Screen setup 07:20 Optional performance seats 09:08 Capacitive buttons: Why? 10:14 Interior overview 11:24 Driving modes 12:28 MBUX infotainment details 13:52 Head-up-Display and digital instruments 14:16 Rear seats 15:55 Trunk / boot 16:33 C43 AMG driving with acceleration test 17:55 Driving agility: AWD and rear-axle steering 19:01 Steering setup 20:22 Flow experience 20:54 Are 4 cylinders enough? 22:51 Augmented reality function 23:35 4-cylinder vs 6-cylinder 24:57 No turbo lag due to F1 tech? 26:43 Is the C63 obsolete now? 28:01 Consumption / fuel economy 29:25 Performance seats while driving #Mercedes #MercedesCClass #MercedesC43 Transparency note: Autogefühl videos are independent and free from editorial influence on opinion and rating. But since manufacturers enable us to do the reviews in the first place, for legal reasons this video is marked as _advertisement_.
I feel like amg is just a marketing gimmick at this point. Mostly visuals and more horse power. Not really much improvement in handling which makes a car sporty imo.
No way to make a 4 banger sound good, hence I never changed the exhaust on my gti. It’s like trying to make a piano sound good with a fourth of the keys .
As everyone here agrees, Mercedes’ AMG you have dropped the ball with the withdrawal of the 6 cylinder engine, no matter how much more powerful and fuel efficiency you have achieved, it’s the quality, smoothness, refinement and last but not least, the sound that matters for buyers of this segment! No amount of piped in fake sound will give you the aura pleasure..I agree with Thomas that everybody wants a 6 cylinder Mercedes!!!!!!:((
Mercedes literally have a modern inline-6 (coded M256) for the recent S 580e and AMG E 53, which is hybrid and mild hybrid respectively. But it's strange why they didn't use that one. It's a missed opportunity. I'd still would prefer it even if it was in the upcoming C 63
Thanks Thomas, I appreciate the very detailed review and comments on the features on this car. I definitely would prefer the 6-cylinder engine over the highly strung 4 -pot, so I would get the M340i instead.
Yikes, the M340i is going to eat its lunch, that 0-60 time is way off of the M340, the sound is way worse, and the price for similar equipment is less. Subjective, but I think the M340i looks better, too. This is a real miss from MB.
This sounds bad but M340i doesn't sound good at all either And 60 times are not confirmed This has way better looks both inside and out But would still take neither of them Better to get the next class up
Never in this universe will BMW compare with Mercedes whatsoever, especially in looks and comfort. As much as we hate losing the sound and power this is something inevitable as air pollution gets worse and worse.
The interior on the MY23+ M340i absolutely sinks it as a valid competitor. The performance is unmatched, but I don't get to flex it on the road much and I'm certainly not about to put up with a tacky screen, reduction of the shift lever to a fiddly switch, and removal of the physical HVAC controls just to get it. This segment is now in the bag for Audi, IMHO, even with their stupid SUV steering wheel. It's the least-egregious product-planning flub.
Hello, ı really disappointed with the new c 43 too. my dream was to have an experience with real AMGs (not AMG-lines that I have it). Do you think cla 45 also not good compared to c 43? Thank you
I too, don't understand why Mercedes decided to downsize the cylinders, particularly in the AMG series of the C-class. I'd seriously consider a BMW or Genesis equivalent. I always thought 4 cylinders are for economy cars... However, I do like the features of this car.
You are very wrong, 4 cylinders are also for sports cars. Mercedes with this car slowly converted the c class amg through the generations from a v8 uncontrollable pointless muscle car into a true agile sports car. Also you should not forget many awd 4 cylinder cars from the pages of history that were truly amazing at every aspect. This c43 is for me the modern day Mitsubishi Evo or lancia integrale.
And I'm getting 35 (US) in my 2022 M240i...again with six cylinders. If BMW can do it, there's no excuse for Mercedes. We know why they really did it: they don't want to have to certify multiple powertrains because that costs a whole lot of NRE.
Hate the capacitive buttons... And as a service manager for a luxury manufacturer I can confirm nobody likes them and they are not as reliable as traditional switches as well
You need 6 cylinders to differentiate from the other 4 cylinders cars on the market , turbos are not the solution , heck I am not an engineer but we definitely needed the v6
@@izidor I guess like it's important for any manufacturer to create products that are best in class and not medicore - especially if it's a sort of aspirational brand.
They could lie regarding the cost. Or just say the actual production is costlier but the tooling for non capacitive bs true analog buttons is more expensive. From what I heard from everyone capacitive is cheaper from an overall perspective when its factored in from a full business implementation cost from beginning to end including repairs, parts, tooling, etc.
Coming from the new m135i I agree that you don't really save much on fuel with a turbo 4 cylinder. Also, there's not much room for a power bump if you're thinking of tuning. Other than the lighter feeling of the 4 cylinder, the 6 cylinder is much better.
Congratulations for the excellent review! You are the ONLY reviewer so far who had the courage to say that the 4 cylinder engine, even though it comes with a lot of power, can't beat a good old 6 cylinder enginen. They both may have the same power figures but the "smoothness" of a 6 cylinder is just a different thing! Thank you very much for being honest with us! I will keep my M340i Touring forever I think:) Greetings from Switzerland!
@@rmr5184 I know the noise is not great but modern 4 cylinders are just faster lighter and more efficient. I mean a guy with a Yaris GR can gap a huge muscle car with a V8 in real life conditions
@@pvc8749 that's not true! The new C43 wheighs more than the old 6 cylinder one. I owned the first generatiom A45S and then switched to the CLA 35 SB.and trust me I know what I'm talking when I say that those engines are not more efficient. I had a lot of issues with both but especially with the CLA even thought it had "only" 306 PS. Since March of this year I own a M340i Touring with that glorious inline 6 cylinder and I would never go back to one of those crappy 4 cylinders. And believe me or not, it's not because of the sound but because of the smoothness of the i6 enginge.
@@rmr5184 fair answer. But the new car is heavier despite the lighter engine I would say. That's just modern cars and regulations. 6 cylinders are smoother but with current gas prices in Europe. With 2 euros per liter for fuel (not the Premium one) so about 7.8 dollars per gallon it makes sense.
Lovely car, but I'm still going to pick up the new m340i 😀 the sound of the i6 just blows this away, plus I feel the 3-series just looks that much more grown up, sophisticated, and overall better polished
I got my new M340i Touring 3 months ago and I can only tell you that you will be completely blown away by that car. It's just so well balanced and everything seems refined to perfection. I think I will be keeping this car for a long time. I switched from a CLA 35 AMG shooting brake and because of that car I decided to no longer buy performance cars with less than 4 cylinders.
@@rmr5184 good on you! I'm coming from a slightly slower Mercedes A200 🤣 another reason for my upgrade other than the massive performance upgrade is the build quality, I find the quality in the A/B- class, CLA, GLA, GLB etc is very very poor, lots of plastic all over the place and rattles everywhere. Was it a similar experience for your CLA?
@@Shaggy12321 I uploaded a short video in February of this year for the Mercedes customers support, you can have a look at it. They didn't trust me when I was complaining about the awful build quality. The built quality is terrible and the reliability experience with Mercedes was even worse. The car spent more time at the Mercedes workshop than on the road.
@@rmr5184 Tell me about it! I've had my A-Class in for repair 4 times now, all to do with rattles and build issues within the cabin. I've had a rattling door, rattling dashboard, broken seatbelt clip, broken clip in the B Pillar, broken boot seal, rattling boot lip, rattling number plate, and the passenger window doesn't go up properly. I had a chat with a Mercedes engineer the other month and he claims he's been working there for 30 years, and a few years back Mercedes decided to stop using metal screws and glue in their cabin on all cars, and switched to plastic clips to save money, since then the build quality on all models has been very poor apparently. And your video is exactly what mine is like, amazing how you can get something like a CLA-45S that's over £60,000 and it has that kind of build in it, my partner just got a BMW X1 and that thing is built like an absolute tank inside, it really puts Mercedes to shame.
@@Shaggy12321 oh that sound a lot like the issues I had. They replaced my door panels on all the doors and added foam between the panels and the metal in order to avoid noises. Some of the plastic clips were actually still visible after they did the job. Unfortunately I had to deal also with major technical issues. - LED headlamp right replaced after two weeks I got the car (I bought it brand new) - Rear damper on the right replaced after four weeks I had the car. - Airbag malfunction - Transmission malfunction - Windowbag malfunction - Service interval timer malfunction - Cylinder head replaced at 45'000km as the springs on the cylinder head were no longer able to withstand the pressure and the enginge stopped working. - 4matic stopped working while I was on the italian alps last december. Appearently the problem was related to the cable harness. I waited 3 months without ever getting any information from Mercedes about when the cable harness could be delivered. That's when I decided to sell the car and get a BMW. The M340i Touring is better in every single point. There is nothing I miss from the Mercedes. Maybe the 360° camera from mercedes was better especially because it was hidden under the badge and wasn't getting wet. Everything else is much better on the M340i.
THB it sound really lame. It is a shame to call this car a C43 AMG. Don't care how much horsepower it has. Not everything is about numbers and performance. We must enjoy the shrinking number of true cars for true petrolheads. We have roughly a decade to do that. Thank you very much EU....
Mercedes should’ve at least made it a proper hybrid. A ~430hp, ~4.1s 0-60mph car would’ve helped overlook how bland the new C43 sounds. Having previously owned a car with VWs EA888 (one of the legendary engines capable of big horsepower) and now BMWs B58, the added 2 cylinders make the car feel like a freight train while accelerating. Four cylinders do struggle a bit under a heavy load, and torque from the electric motors would’ve helped there. However, I will reserve my judgement until I test drive one. Liked the tech and everything else about the car!
exactly - the a45s with 421ps does a 12.1 1/4 mile (no rollout) so this with less power and more weight would seriously struggle to break 12.4 - slower than a BMW M340I xDrive - also the bmw has an amazing B58 - far better than the 4 banger
@@MrRaitzi and just like the amg one it will come too late, and if it as good as the gt63 eperformance they shouldn't even release it. Bad transitions, to pricey and obsolete performance after what we are seeing in fully eletric cars.
@@MrRaitzi Since the c63 will have both the 2.0 liter and the electric motor I seriously doubt the c43 will get a hybrid too. This c43 needs at least 420 whp. You aren't getting those numbers with a 4 cylinder.
Have a 19 C 43 and I drove this current model and man totally different cars. That being said I loved it. Far as fuel my car on highway 30 +. Absolutely love the sound but I love 4 bangers 29:02
Guys why is everyone saying the c63 will sound better, how? Its the same engine just tweaked at higher power. My c43 lease is up soon and I’m either going gle53 coupe or bmw m340i
think I will be sticking with me 2021 C43 estate, interior looks good and new MBUX is nice, but touch buttons everywhere are a no for me, sound kills the whole reason I got the C43
The new C Class interior quality is so gross. Such poor quality. Also, the old models will have better value because they have way better engines. This sounds like a vacuum cleaner. If other carmakers figured out how to make an economical 6 cylinder, why couldn't Mercedes? Now they have a heavier car anyway because of the extra hybrid rubbish totally negating any benefit. What an awful thing.
Leased a brand new 2020 amg gtc roadster 2/2021. On the drive home got first error message and noticed busted subwoofer. After that engine lights. Then engine lights again. Then 4 (!!!) simultaneous error messages. Multiple knocking sounds. Overall, $189k car has been in the shop with 10 different issues for about 70 days. Customer service from MBUSA is truly disgusting. Ignoring multiple calls and messages and multiple emails. Asked them multiple times to take car back and they refused. Have to go thru lemon process to get rid off this piece of junk. Never offered apology or any sort of mediation for the experience. How in the world they are allowed to sell products they cannot support is beyond me.
Hi Thomas, very nice review as always! I agree with your comments about 6 cyl vs 4 cyl! My 2020 GLC43 with the V6 twin turbo and sport exhaust was such a fun SUV…that engine put a smile on my face everyday! Coming from a 2018 Volvo V90 T-6 R-Design 2.0 4 cyl supercharge-turbo (with Polestar software), the GLC43 was way more exciting though on paper the Volvo should have been closer. I didn’t miss the Volvo for a second, except for my preference for wagon over SUV (the Volvo was beautiful - no C43 wagon avail in the US). The performance and amazing sound made for such a great combination, especially for the price say compared to the 63. Recently I traded the GLC43 for a 2021 Audi S5 Cabriolet; not needing 2 SUV’s (wife drives one) and deciding to enjoy as much open air as possible after the pandemic. Anyway, the S5 is fun and it’s V6 turbo is quick and refined (too quiet, too refined), but still no match for the mad experience of the GLC43’s V6 turbo. I guess my point is, I find it hard to believe the new GLC/C43’s 4 cyl turbo can match the old generation’s overall performance and sound experience, regardless of the performance figures on paper. Mercedes is making a mistake here, but there are other options before spending this much on a high strung 4 cylinder. Cheers!
Even if I could afford one I would never get one, this car is emotionally just dead on arrival. Also the interior is somewhat of a downgrade with all the screens and capacitive buttons.
The touch screen controls for HVAC, the capacitive buttons, and even the fake exhaust outlets annoys me more than 4 cylinders. Like a first gen BMW M3, fast 4 cylinders definitely can have their own unique charm.
Regarding the capacitive buttons BS I fully agree with you. I hope they are pulling an Apple. You know Apple had the best laptop keyboards loved by everybody. They decided to switch them out and everybody hated the new keyboard. 4 years later they switched back and everybody loved it and bought new laptops.
@@softroseforyou7457 you wont go further on a tank of gas, because they also shrunk those milage might still be slightly better, reliability with the high power density is is still an open question tho
Hi-tech and fast but why downsize 2 to 4 cylinders on AMG models? I'd rather have the V8 C63 and even the old C43 with the V6 engine. They sound better. C'mon, Mercedes, keep the V6 and V8 in the C43 and C63. 4 cylinder engines just ain't it for an AMG.
@@Mark-rt6fy We're still in 2022, Europe's gas ban is in 2035. Mercedes still had the opportunity to keep the V8 in the C63 and the V6 in the C43. BMW kept the straight-6 engine in a lot of their models and is keeping the V8 in the M5, 13 years before the gas ban. Downsize the engines for later but just not now.
@@Mark-rt6fy We, buyers, decide that, just don't by these 4 cylinder vehicles, environmental wise it doesn't has any influence. An EV is as bad as a gasoline car for the environment.
@@shaking6360 Personally I couldn't care less about gas polution of civilian cars vs. a fighter jet or tank. However, I wouldn't bet on any collective action to not buy a car, otherwise we wouldn't have the covid price hike in the first place. Also sadly more people care about brands and looks than powertrains.
9:17 I don`t believe at this at all. Actually it would be interesting if someone could do research about this. Sure screens can be expensive, but I don`t think these are high tech oled screens with the high refresh rate.
Nice AMG, great review but Isn’t that a B9 Audi RS4 Avant in Nardo grey in the background? Perhaps for those who can’t accept the “downgrade” in cylinders? 🤔😅
Great balanced review from Thomas, a predictable question, which car would you choose, would you prefer the handling and ride of the new Mercedes C43 AMG over the 6 cylinder engine of the BMW M340i that has lifeless steering, assuming both cars are at a similar price level.
Re: capacitive buttons and piano black trim. No-one wanted to live in concrete towers with no garden, lifts that didn't work, gloomy passages and stairwells that smelled of piss. The architects kept designing them and the planners kept approving their designs, though...
What do you think about the wheel size? There are options for 20inch vs 19 inches. Which one would you choose? Is it worth to spend more money for 20 inch wheels? All reviews of c43 have 20 inch wheel. I wanna see 19 inch wheel too.
man idk man idk I just picked a 2019 c300 its old and slow compared to this but you put it in sport+ its a freaking rocket. Yeah it doesn't sound thrilling but the drive is thrilling It's fun . So can you imagine getting your hands on this. Come on ppl
Will adlmit it sounds better than I expected but I still can't get myself excited for a 4 cyl. And definitely don't see myself paying that much for a Mercedes flat 4. Bummer because the Biturbo V8 C63S is such a nice car.
Nice test and kind of what I expected; reason I did not wait to test it and ordered/got the m440i which I dont regret as a 6cyl is just sheer joy (even if its a bit too heavy to have real fun handling); also dont like the c interior which is too scifi for me and does not look as nicely finished as bmw; if to have one last petrol engine then go for 6cylinders :)
Beautiful car. Maybe I'm old school, but I just don't like the Mercedes cockpit screen. I do prefer it to be more incorporated into the dash. But, I do like the console monitor, that is really very nice. Outside of the car is absolutely stunning.
Awesome looking car, would choose the older one in a heartbeat but still. Hate all the stuff you talked about too, who want's piano-black, capacitive buttons etc. Thomas did you have a chance to ask that question to Mercedes?
Thank you Thomas for your superb analysis, as usual. BUT. This time I don't follow you on the sound part, it sounds hawfull, even with a 1man/1engine badge on the engine. Even the pops and bangs are now gone. I have a glc43 for 5 years now and this is not the same AT ALL. Plus I have the correct classical seats buttons 😀 .. and air-conditioning buttons + media, nav, radio ... accessible with 1 button for each. I will never sell my glc43 ! And I ask my workshop not to upgrade the ecu if the pops and bangs are less in the newer version.
+1 ... Man O man,,, a very respectable C Klasse exterior refreshing. .. The T-model gets our interest... But we're E Klasse E450 T model owners... Selenite grey metallic w/Creme Beige Leathers. ... The matt Selenite grey is super sharp .... however, try fixing a scratch? .. Its a bitch finish the matt finishes.
Thomas, why go through all the trouble to put those nice, large chrome tips for the exhaust, but they make the exhaust fake? Do you know why car makers keep doing this stupidity?
Clicky vents, but no clicky buttons. Maybe it's conditioning, but we like tactile feedback. When the whole panel moves or flexes, it feels cheap. Mercedes design is great, but this one has a scowling grill.
Can you please help clarify the added crash safety aspect? If you knock on the outside of the A pillar it sounds weak and hollow whereas all the other C Classes before it sound more solid and dense. It seems the structure isn't as solid as the old ones. I think safety wise it's a step down then. They may have only made it safe to pass compliance crash tests with 5 stars but I have a feeling it won't perform as well as the old ones in high speed crashes because of this.
Fake exhaust tips? You haven’t seen the Audi S6 or Ford Explorer ST. Such solution as in C43 you have in most modern cars including Ferrari, Audi R8 or RS6. The poor fitment is the thing of the past 👍
Sadly in the UK, there are no non-leather seating materials at all. Evidently Mercedes don't want vegetarians, vegans or people concerned about sustainability to drive the C Class. Ridiculous. But so is the capacitive buttons thing. Mercedes, like VW, are losing their way with ergonomics. I had a C205, and that was very easy to use (lots of buttons, and the scroll wheel), and even had non-leather seats!
Great review as always! As far as cylinder count: I would say that at the rate we are going, 4 cylinders is probably 4 more than what we will be getting in a couple of more years, so we need to be thankful for what we have right now. It won't be around for ever.
Grey vehicle vs Grey clad reviewer, both well specced. Meh fake exhausts, few buttons, haptic havoc, and hi gloss bleak. A tour de force given the accessible performance. But as Jeremy Clarkson quipped, the wedding vegetables remain unmoved 😵💫.
►Follow us on Instagram @autogefuehl and @thomas.letsgo
►Subscribe here: czcams.com/users/autogefuehl
►Normal Mercedes C-Class W206 driving review: czcams.com/video/hFp2X2uqg9w/video.html
►Compare the BMW M340i: czcams.com/video/IwMsLlH1zVs/video.html
00:00 Launch Control (Race Start)
00:11 Mercedes C43 AMG in Selenite Grey Magno
01:05 Length and wheels
01:41 Chrome vs Night package look
02:03 Sedan vs estate (T-Modell)
02:32 Rear design
03:12 Autogefuehl fake exhaust police
03:35 Adaptive suspension and rear-axle steering
04:34 4-cylinder engine with F1 tech
06:06 Key fob and doors
06:40 Steering wheel
07:00 Screen setup
07:20 Optional performance seats
09:08 Capacitive buttons: Why?
10:14 Interior overview
11:24 Driving modes
12:28 MBUX infotainment details
13:52 Head-up-Display and digital instruments
14:16 Rear seats
15:55 Trunk / boot
16:33 C43 AMG driving with acceleration test
17:55 Driving agility: AWD and rear-axle steering
19:01 Steering setup
20:22 Flow experience
20:54 Are 4 cylinders enough?
22:51 Augmented reality function
23:35 4-cylinder vs 6-cylinder
24:57 No turbo lag due to F1 tech?
26:43 Is the C63 obsolete now?
28:01 Consumption / fuel economy
29:25 Performance seats while driving
#Mercedes #MercedesCClass #MercedesC43
Transparency note: Autogefühl videos are independent and free from editorial influence on opinion and rating. But since manufacturers enable us to do the reviews in the first place, for legal reasons this video is marked as _advertisement_.
I'm sure it's quick, but it sounds awful. For me, the sound is just as important for any car's character (or soul).
Totally agree, sounds like a ..Well...id rather not say, but its not nice
Mate it's horrendous what mercedes have done to amg. The management literally want dropping into the iron smelt
Tell that to the tree humpers
I feel like amg is just a marketing gimmick at this point. Mostly visuals and more horse power. Not really much improvement in handling which makes a car sporty imo.
No way to make a 4 banger sound good, hence I never changed the exhaust on my gti. It’s like trying to make a piano sound good with a fourth of the keys .
As everyone here agrees, Mercedes’ AMG you have dropped the ball with the withdrawal of the 6 cylinder engine, no matter how much more powerful and fuel efficiency you have achieved, it’s the quality, smoothness, refinement and last but not least, the sound that matters for buyers of this segment! No amount of piped in fake sound will give you the aura pleasure..I agree with Thomas that everybody wants a 6 cylinder Mercedes!!!!!!:((
Mercedes literally have a modern inline-6 (coded M256) for the recent S 580e and AMG E 53, which is hybrid and mild hybrid respectively.
But it's strange why they didn't use that one. It's a missed opportunity. I'd still would prefer it even if it was in the upcoming C 63
AMG died when M137 was discontinued. There is NOTHING that sounds as beautiful as Mercedes naturally aspirated V12 :D
Don't miss the 6-cyclinder a bit... sound is worse on the 4 for sure, but the front end feels noticeably lighter; much easier to toss around...
Your reviews are incredibly good, every detail and information about the car is included. Great work!
Thanks Thomas, I appreciate the very detailed review and comments on the features on this car. I definitely would prefer the 6-cylinder engine over the highly strung 4 -pot, so I would get the M340i instead.
I miss the signature sign in... "In full HD, full screen and full length. Let's go!"
Yikes, the M340i is going to eat its lunch, that 0-60 time is way off of the M340, the sound is way worse, and the price for similar equipment is less. Subjective, but I think the M340i looks better, too. This is a real miss from MB.
Agree with everything except looks.
This sounds bad but M340i doesn't sound good at all either
And 60 times are not confirmed
This has way better looks both inside and out
But would still take neither of them
Better to get the next class up
Yes the 340i will eat the competition. Always. Because bmw lies about HP. The look of 340i lol looks like 2015 bmw. Merc is another class!
Never in this universe will BMW compare with Mercedes whatsoever, especially in looks and comfort. As much as we hate losing the sound and power this is something inevitable as air pollution gets worse and worse.
The interior on the MY23+ M340i absolutely sinks it as a valid competitor. The performance is unmatched, but I don't get to flex it on the road much and I'm certainly not about to put up with a tacky screen, reduction of the shift lever to a fiddly switch, and removal of the physical HVAC controls just to get it.
This segment is now in the bag for Audi, IMHO, even with their stupid SUV steering wheel. It's the least-egregious product-planning flub.
It sounds like 330i G20, and for amg, that’s not good… Awesome review as always 👌🏻
Both 2 litre 4 cylinder engines.
No, it's sounds even worse, at least on the outside.
30+ year AMG owner, lover, driver, fan, you name it.
This car sounds like pure SHIT.
no replacement for displacement baby!
Hello, ı really disappointed with the new c 43 too. my dream was to have an experience with real AMGs (not AMG-lines that I have it). Do you think cla 45 also not good compared to c 43? Thank you
Damn RIP V8.. My dyson vacuum cleaner sounds louder than this engine.
My 3 cylinder straight piped Polo sounds louder too 😔 RIP AMG
Out with capacitive buttons and high gloss black I say. We want buttons and clean design, no smudges.
I too, don't understand why Mercedes decided to downsize the cylinders, particularly in the AMG series of the C-class. I'd seriously consider a BMW or Genesis equivalent. I always thought 4 cylinders are for economy cars... However, I do like the features of this car.
Global emissions regulations and restrictions result in engine downsizing
You are very wrong, 4 cylinders are also for sports cars. Mercedes with this car slowly converted the c class amg through the generations from a v8 uncontrollable pointless muscle car into a true agile sports car. Also you should not forget many awd 4 cylinder cars from the pages of history that were truly amazing at every aspect. This c43 is for me the modern day Mitsubishi Evo or lancia integrale.
@@meavyhetal bro, better go electric than 4 chl for fuckk sakes. It sounds like a vacuum cleaner
they had to
Sales numbers.
Between the M340i and this, the BMW would be my choice, I like it more, pre facelift, with physical controls.
Thats why i bought M340i this year (pre lci). Way better than lci one. Totally agree with you
Considering i got 42mpg (UK) in my M2C on motorway at 70mph for a long trip. I'll stick with BMW and 6 cylinders. Review is excellent as usual though
And I'm getting 35 (US) in my 2022 M240i...again with six cylinders. If BMW can do it, there's no excuse for Mercedes. We know why they really did it: they don't want to have to certify multiple powertrains because that costs a whole lot of NRE.
@@vomErsten I've gotten 30 out of my v8 Camaro.
Hate the capacitive buttons... And as a service manager for a luxury manufacturer I can confirm nobody likes them and they are not as reliable as traditional switches as well
You need 6 cylinders to differentiate from the other 4 cylinders cars on the market , turbos are not the solution , heck I am not an engineer but we definitely needed the v6
Yeah. At least 6 or go electric right away.
Performance wise it's a joke for a AMG car. It's basically matching, not even beating, m340d not to mention the B58 version.
Why should it beat any car at anything? Their benchmark is their previous C43 AMG and they build a better looking, faster car. Job done.
@@izidor I guess like it's important for any manufacturer to create products that are best in class and not medicore - especially if it's a sort of aspirational brand.
@@p.k.7111 Uhm...well not really. But its your opinion.
Totally agreed with you. I guess the 408PS is just overquoted by Mercedes, while M340d being only 340PS
@@izidor well, Mercedes advertising slogan was "The best or nothing". Maybe this time is just "Nothing".
They could lie regarding the cost. Or just say the actual production is costlier but the tooling for non capacitive bs true analog buttons is more expensive. From what I heard from everyone capacitive is cheaper from an overall perspective when its factored in from a full business implementation cost from beginning to end including repairs, parts, tooling, etc.
Coming from the new m135i I agree that you don't really save much on fuel with a turbo 4 cylinder.
Also, there's not much room for a power bump if you're thinking of tuning. Other than the lighter feeling of the 4 cylinder, the 6 cylinder is much better.
does BMW make a cars? :)
Of courses you save on fuel with a 4 cylinder. Not in an AMG one tho because it is supposed to used for fun
Congratulations for the excellent review! You are the ONLY reviewer so far who had the courage to say that the 4 cylinder engine, even though it comes with a lot of power, can't beat a good old 6 cylinder enginen. They both may have the same power figures but the "smoothness" of a 6 cylinder is just a different thing!
Thank you very much for being honest with us!
I will keep my M340i Touring forever I think:)
Greetings from Switzerland!
It's faster lighter and more efficient ?
@@pvc8749 which one do you mean?
@@rmr5184 I know the noise is not great but modern 4 cylinders are just faster lighter and more efficient.
I mean a guy with a Yaris GR can gap a huge muscle car with a V8 in real life conditions
@@pvc8749 that's not true! The new C43 wheighs more than the old 6 cylinder one. I owned the first generatiom A45S and then switched to the CLA 35 SB.and trust me I know what I'm talking when I say that those engines are not more efficient. I had a lot of issues with both but especially with the CLA even thought it had "only" 306 PS.
Since March of this year I own a M340i Touring with that glorious inline 6 cylinder and I would never go back to one of those crappy 4 cylinders.
And believe me or not, it's not because of the sound but because of the smoothness of the i6 enginge.
@@rmr5184 fair answer. But the new car is heavier despite the lighter engine I would say. That's just modern cars and regulations.
6 cylinders are smoother but with current gas prices in Europe.
With 2 euros per liter for fuel (not the Premium one) so about 7.8 dollars per gallon it makes sense.
I can't imagine C63 S upcoming has under hood 4 cylinders + mild hybrid or e-Performance, 😭😭😭
Impossible happening..
Lovely car, but I'm still going to pick up the new m340i 😀 the sound of the i6 just blows this away, plus I feel the 3-series just looks that much more grown up, sophisticated, and overall better polished
I got my new M340i Touring 3 months ago and I can only tell you that you will be completely blown away by that car. It's just so well balanced and everything seems refined to perfection. I think I will be keeping this car for a long time.
I switched from a CLA 35 AMG shooting brake and because of that car I decided to no longer buy performance cars with less than 4 cylinders.
@@rmr5184 good on you! I'm coming from a slightly slower Mercedes A200 🤣 another reason for my upgrade other than the massive performance upgrade is the build quality, I find the quality in the A/B- class, CLA, GLA, GLB etc is very very poor, lots of plastic all over the place and rattles everywhere. Was it a similar experience for your CLA?
@@Shaggy12321 I uploaded a short video in February of this year for the Mercedes customers support, you can have a look at it. They didn't trust me when I was complaining about the awful build quality. The built quality is terrible and the reliability experience with Mercedes was even worse. The car spent more time at the Mercedes workshop than on the road.
@@rmr5184 Tell me about it! I've had my A-Class in for repair 4 times now, all to do with rattles and build issues within the cabin. I've had a rattling door, rattling dashboard, broken seatbelt clip, broken clip in the B Pillar, broken boot seal, rattling boot lip, rattling number plate, and the passenger window doesn't go up properly. I had a chat with a Mercedes engineer the other month and he claims he's been working there for 30 years, and a few years back Mercedes decided to stop using metal screws and glue in their cabin on all cars, and switched to plastic clips to save money, since then the build quality on all models has been very poor apparently.
And your video is exactly what mine is like, amazing how you can get something like a CLA-45S that's over £60,000 and it has that kind of build in it, my partner just got a BMW X1 and that thing is built like an absolute tank inside, it really puts Mercedes to shame.
@@Shaggy12321 oh that sound a lot like the issues I had. They replaced my door panels on all the doors and added foam between the panels and the metal in order to avoid noises. Some of the plastic clips were actually still visible after they did the job. Unfortunately I had to deal also with major technical issues.
- LED headlamp right replaced after two weeks I got the car (I bought it brand new)
- Rear damper on the right replaced after four weeks I had the car.
- Airbag malfunction
- Transmission malfunction
- Windowbag malfunction
- Service interval timer malfunction
- Cylinder head replaced at 45'000km as the springs on the cylinder head were no longer able to withstand the pressure and the enginge stopped working.
- 4matic stopped working while I was on the italian alps last december. Appearently the problem was related to the cable harness. I waited 3 months without ever getting any information from Mercedes about when the cable harness could be delivered. That's when I decided to sell the car and get a BMW.
The M340i Touring is better in every single point. There is nothing I miss from the Mercedes. Maybe the 360° camera from mercedes was better especially because it was hidden under the badge and wasn't getting wet. Everything else is much better on the M340i.
THB it sound really lame. It is a shame to call this car a C43 AMG. Don't care how much horsepower it has. Not everything is about numbers and performance.
We must enjoy the shrinking number of true cars for true petrolheads. We have roughly a decade to do that. Thank you very much EU....
It still sounds like a 4 cylinder car. Who cares about performance numbers in countries with draconian speeding fines.
Nah fuck this 4-cylinder amg c class.
Mercedes should’ve at least made it a proper hybrid. A ~430hp, ~4.1s 0-60mph car would’ve helped overlook how bland the new C43 sounds.
Having previously owned a car with VWs EA888 (one of the legendary engines capable of big horsepower) and now BMWs B58, the added 2 cylinders make the car feel like a freight train while accelerating. Four cylinders do struggle a bit under a heavy load, and torque from the electric motors would’ve helped there.
However, I will reserve my judgement until I test drive one. Liked the tech and everything else about the car!
exactly - the a45s with 421ps does a 12.1 1/4 mile (no rollout) so this with less power and more weight would seriously struggle to break 12.4 - slower than a BMW M340I xDrive - also the bmw has an amazing B58 - far better than the 4 banger
C63 will be hybrid with about 640 combined HP
@@MrRaitzi and just like the amg one it will come too late, and if it as good as the gt63 eperformance they shouldn't even release it. Bad transitions, to pricey and obsolete performance after what we are seeing in fully eletric cars.
@@MrRaitzi Since the c63 will have both the 2.0 liter and the electric motor I seriously doubt the c43 will get a hybrid too. This c43 needs at least 420 whp. You aren't getting those numbers with a 4 cylinder.
I like your reviews. Am a petrol head also and having a German perspective in English is great. Keep it up.
thanks !! Please recommend our channel :)
This is a fckin joke bro. It sounds like my vacuum cleaner
Have a 19 C 43 and I drove this current model and man totally different cars. That being said I loved it. Far as fuel my car on highway 30 +. Absolutely love the sound but I love 4 bangers 29:02
Love the outside but the multimedia interface is a no for me. Capacitive buttons .. fail
Who would have thought that shiny cheap black plastic is not the "luxury" option compared to chrome? :)
Guys why is everyone saying the c63 will sound better, how? Its the same engine just tweaked at higher power. My c43 lease is up soon and I’m either going gle53 coupe or bmw m340i
think I will be sticking with me 2021 C43 estate, interior looks good and new MBUX is nice, but touch buttons everywhere are a no for me, sound kills the whole reason I got the C43
Excellent review Thomas, amazing video!
Thanks Fabio!
Thomas, your 2019 C43 review is what made me buy one. Thanks for your thorough reviews!!
Me too! Love my 2019 C43
Give me the Estate, Golf-Bags & Luggage need Room!
In reality a C20 Turbo AMG.
I like how normal C 200 makes more sense than this AMG
The new C Class interior quality is so gross. Such poor quality.
Also, the old models will have better value because they have way better engines. This sounds like a vacuum cleaner. If other carmakers figured out how to make an economical 6 cylinder, why couldn't Mercedes? Now they have a heavier car anyway because of the extra hybrid rubbish totally negating any benefit. What an awful thing.
Sound left the chat
Leased a brand new 2020 amg gtc roadster 2/2021. On the drive home got first error message and noticed busted subwoofer. After that engine lights. Then engine lights again. Then 4 (!!!) simultaneous error messages. Multiple knocking sounds. Overall, $189k car has been in the shop with 10 different issues for about 70 days. Customer service from MBUSA is truly disgusting. Ignoring multiple calls and messages and multiple emails. Asked them multiple times to take car back and they refused. Have to go thru lemon process to get rid off this piece of junk. Never offered apology or any sort of mediation for the experience. How in the world they are allowed to sell products they cannot support is beyond me.
Horrible! 😔
Hi Thomas, very nice review as always! I agree with your comments about 6 cyl vs 4 cyl!
My 2020 GLC43 with the V6 twin turbo and sport exhaust was such a fun SUV…that engine put a smile on my face everyday! Coming from a 2018 Volvo V90 T-6 R-Design 2.0 4 cyl supercharge-turbo (with Polestar software), the GLC43 was way more exciting though on paper the Volvo should have been closer. I didn’t miss the Volvo for a second, except for my preference for wagon over SUV (the Volvo was beautiful - no C43 wagon avail in the US). The performance and amazing sound made for such a great combination, especially for the price say compared to the 63.
Recently I traded the GLC43 for a 2021 Audi S5 Cabriolet; not needing 2 SUV’s (wife drives one) and deciding to enjoy as much open air as possible after the pandemic. Anyway, the S5 is fun and it’s V6 turbo is quick and refined (too quiet, too refined), but still no match for the mad experience of the GLC43’s V6 turbo. I guess my point is, I find it hard to believe the new GLC/C43’s 4 cyl turbo can match the old generation’s overall performance and sound experience, regardless of the performance figures on paper. Mercedes is making a mistake here, but there are other options before spending this much on a high strung 4 cylinder.
Cheers!
I own a C450 4-matic, don't think I am gonna replace it by this C43...
Advice. Don't
So what about this fake exhaust? Are there exhaust-gases coming through the tips, or not?
Even if I could afford one I would never get one, this car is emotionally just dead on arrival. Also the interior is somewhat of a downgrade with all the screens and capacitive buttons.
Got to have the v6 performance exhaust. Love it when my 2020 pops!!!!
It's one man one engine. Soon it'll be a 1 cylinder amg 1 man100 engines
The touch screen controls for HVAC, the capacitive buttons, and even the fake exhaust outlets annoys me more than 4 cylinders. Like a first gen BMW M3, fast 4 cylinders definitely can have their own unique charm.
Regarding the capacitive buttons BS I fully agree with you. I hope they are pulling an Apple. You know Apple had the best laptop keyboards loved by everybody. They decided to switch them out and everybody hated the new keyboard. 4 years later they switched back and everybody loved it and bought new laptops.
It's not just you, I'd never buy a 4 cyl AMG or M or RS car. Hunting for a current gen GLC43 now.
GLC 43 is 385 horsepower. With the 4 cylinder it is over 400 horsepower and you will get better gas mileage and go further on a tank of gas.
@@softroseforyou7457 you wont go further on a tank of gas, because they also shrunk those
milage might still be slightly better, reliability with the high power density is is still an open question tho
@@softroseforyou7457 If I want pure speed I'd just get the new A45, or the new RS3 which sounds better?
Hi-tech and fast but why downsize 2 to 4 cylinders on AMG models? I'd rather have the V8 C63 and even the old C43 with the V6 engine. They sound better. C'mon, Mercedes, keep the V6 and V8 in the C43 and C63. 4 cylinder engines just ain't it for an AMG.
Thanks to environment protection, V8 is never coming back, we are going for 1.0L 2 cylinders soon...
@@Mark-rt6fy We're still in 2022, Europe's gas ban is in 2035. Mercedes still had the opportunity to keep the V8 in the C63 and the V6 in the C43. BMW kept the straight-6 engine in a lot of their models and is keeping the V8 in the M5, 13 years before the gas ban. Downsize the engines for later but just not now.
@@Mark-rt6fy We, buyers, decide that, just don't by these 4 cylinder vehicles, environmental wise it doesn't has any influence. An EV is as bad as a gasoline car for the environment.
@@shaking6360 Personally I couldn't care less about gas polution of civilian cars vs. a fighter jet or tank. However, I wouldn't bet on any collective action to not buy a car, otherwise we wouldn't have the covid price hike in the first place. Also sadly more people care about brands and looks than powertrains.
2023 Mercedes C43 AMG = baby S Class ! Slainte' ! Cheers !
If were to pick a c class version from the base 1.5 petrol to c63, my pick would be c300d. AMG versions dont make any sense.
9:17 I don`t believe at this at all. Actually it would be interesting if someone could do research about this. Sure screens can be expensive, but I don`t think these are high tech oled screens with the high refresh rate.
Nice AMG, great review but Isn’t that a B9 Audi RS4 Avant in Nardo grey in the background? Perhaps for those who can’t accept the “downgrade” in cylinders? 🤔😅
It doesn't deserve the amg batch, but that's my opinion.
Great balanced review from Thomas, a predictable question, which car would you choose, would you prefer the handling and ride of the new Mercedes C43 AMG over the 6 cylinder engine of the BMW M340i that has lifeless steering, assuming both cars are at a similar price level.
Those wheels look fantastic.
Thomas, we do not get any of those lovely touring models stateside. If we did, I'd always go for the touring. Please send some over!
-M340i
I owned the previous generation C43 6-cyl cabrio. I now regret selling it.
Thank you for the super detailed review!
Nice to see how well it drives, modern AMGs are far more capable nowadays for sure. Just a shame about the sound......
I would go for the estate with Microfiber n leatherette in the inside (brown) n that nardo grey including those new wheels.
Re: capacitive buttons and piano black trim. No-one wanted to live in concrete towers with no garden, lifts that didn't work, gloomy passages and stairwells that smelled of piss. The architects kept designing them and the planners kept approving their designs, though...
What do you think about the wheel size? There are options for 20inch vs 19 inches. Which one would you choose? Is it worth to spend more money for 20 inch wheels? All reviews of c43 have 20 inch wheel. I wanna see 19 inch wheel too.
man idk man idk I just picked a 2019 c300 its old and slow compared to this but you put it in sport+ its a freaking rocket. Yeah it doesn't sound thrilling but the drive is thrilling It's fun . So can you imagine getting your hands on this. Come on ppl
Will adlmit it sounds better than I expected but I still can't get myself excited for a 4 cyl. And definitely don't see myself paying that much for a Mercedes flat 4. Bummer because the Biturbo V8 C63S is such a nice car.
Looks great but the 4 pot is a deal breaker
Nice test and kind of what I expected; reason I did not wait to test it and ordered/got the m440i which I dont regret as a 6cyl is just sheer joy (even if its a bit too heavy to have real fun handling); also dont like the c interior which is too scifi for me and does not look as nicely finished as bmw; if to have one last petrol engine then go for 6cylinders :)
Congrats on your new car. You're right though, with a 4 cylinder it just not that exciting, sounds too tame.
Yep for one last time let's go 6 cylinders ✊️
Beautiful car. Maybe I'm old school, but I just don't like the Mercedes cockpit screen. I do prefer it to be more incorporated into the dash. But, I do like the console monitor, that is really very nice. Outside of the car is absolutely stunning.
Awesome looking car, would choose the older one in a heartbeat but still.
Hate all the stuff you talked about too, who want's piano-black, capacitive buttons etc.
Thomas did you have a chance to ask that question to Mercedes?
What’s better this or the m3340i
Compare it here: czcams.com/video/S1aNZeoatmE/video.html
🚨AFEP🚨
My Mercedes, what big fake exhaust surrounds you have!
16:36 - From the outside, that doesn't sound any different to me than a seven-seater budget minivan.
Was considering one until you pointed out that fake exhaust absolutely hate that
Lol my mom’s V6 Camry sounds better!
Your're not the only one. I expect 6 cylenders at this level. And the pasted on dash and center stack is very cheap looking.
-M340i
Thank you Thomas for your superb analysis, as usual.
BUT.
This time I don't follow you on the sound part, it sounds hawfull, even with a 1man/1engine badge on the engine. Even the pops and bangs are now gone. I have a glc43 for 5 years now and this is not the same AT ALL. Plus I have the correct classical seats buttons 😀 .. and air-conditioning buttons + media, nav, radio ... accessible with 1 button for each.
I will never sell my glc43 ! And I ask my workshop not to upgrade the ecu if the pops and bangs are less in the newer version.
At this point....they should've just made it electric.The electric motor whine sound is much better than what this 4cyl sounds like.
Agreed... why use stupid parts , more expensive and not wanted by customers!
Could;t they have gone V6 hybrid with the C43, would have passed emmisons too surely?
Your reviews are fantastic! I seen a new standard C class the other day, they’ve certainly grown.. Was like looking at an E class till I realised!
+1 ... Man O man,,, a very respectable C Klasse exterior refreshing. .. The T-model gets our interest... But we're E Klasse E450 T model owners... Selenite grey metallic w/Creme Beige Leathers. ... The matt Selenite grey is super sharp .... however, try fixing a scratch? .. Its a bitch finish the matt finishes.
Appreciate how Thomas color coordinated his outfit with the C43 #SeleniteGreyMagno
Thomas, why go through all the trouble to put those nice, large chrome tips for the exhaust, but they make the exhaust fake? Do you know why car makers keep doing this stupidity?
How’s the plastics quality and the softness of them? Foam backing or just hard plastic hastily wrapped in vinyl?
Clicky vents, but no clicky buttons. Maybe it's conditioning, but we like tactile feedback. When the whole panel moves or flexes, it feels cheap. Mercedes design is great, but this one has a scowling grill.
I support your battle against #capacitivebs buttons 🙏🏻😆
10:14 I havent heard a single person that likes the capacitive buttons...
10:10 i dont get it as well SMH
Can you please help clarify the added crash safety aspect? If you knock on the outside of the A pillar it sounds weak and hollow whereas all the other C Classes before it sound more solid and dense. It seems the structure isn't as solid as the old ones. I think safety wise it's a step down then. They may have only made it safe to pass compliance crash tests with 5 stars but I have a feeling it won't perform as well as the old ones in high speed crashes because of this.
Fake exhaust tips? You haven’t seen the Audi S6 or Ford Explorer ST. Such solution as in C43 you have in most modern cars including Ferrari, Audi R8 or RS6. The poor fitment is the thing of the past 👍
Thomas, it´s a mere fast taxi ! I´m joking, but I didn´t buy this car never, I rather prefer a BMW M3. Thank you Thomas for beautiful video.
Hi Thomas, I think the white color is beautiful too, what you say because you reviewed it before
Sadly in the UK, there are no non-leather seating materials at all. Evidently Mercedes don't want vegetarians, vegans or people concerned about sustainability to drive the C Class.
Ridiculous. But so is the capacitive buttons thing. Mercedes, like VW, are losing their way with ergonomics. I had a C205, and that was very easy to use (lots of buttons, and the scroll wheel), and even had non-leather seats!
ridiculous UK specs!
Great review as always! As far as cylinder count: I would say that at the rate we are going, 4 cylinders is probably 4 more than what we will be getting in a couple of more years, so we need to be thankful for what we have right now. It won't be around for ever.
The AR feature is really nice. Unfortunately it was canceled for my E-Class 300de due to non availability…..
Anyone has their own experience about the average consumption when driving 150-200 km/h for few hours?
I enjoyed watching the Video. A great looking Sporty Sedan
One of my very favourite colour paint finishes
Grey vehicle vs Grey clad reviewer, both well specced. Meh fake exhausts, few buttons, haptic havoc, and hi gloss bleak. A tour de force given the accessible performance. But as Jeremy Clarkson quipped, the wedding vegetables remain unmoved 😵💫.
Is the stitching on the dash supposed to look like that? towards the vents? parallel until it isn't?