Goodbye C43, hello C45?
The new C63 has received a lot of attention recently. After electrification, it has lost half its cylinders and gained some weight. What about the C43? German magazine Auto Bild has some details on the “AMG Lite” version of the C-Class.
Contrary to what was reported, the “warm C” might not be able to transition to the C53 name as initially believed. This would allow the smaller of the C-Class AMGs to match the larger. E53 CLS 53/GLE 53 It’s going to be called “C45”, however. Auto Bild C53 is unlikely to be produced as the C45-C63 gap would be too small for a third AMG derivative.
The C45 will rely on the world’s most powerful, mass-produced four-cylinder engine. The AMG S’s turbocharged 2.0-liter M139 engine produces an impressive 416 horsepower (310kW) and 369 lb-ft (500 Newton meters) of torque in the hot hatchback.
Although the four-pot has 31 horsepower (23kW) more than the twin-turbo 3.0-liter engine V6 in the C43, it is down by 15 lb-ft (20Nm) on torque. All C-Class models will get mild-hybrid technology, so the torque gap will be eliminated after the implementation of the integrated starter generation. The C45 will not get the rear-mounted motor of the flagship C63. This will mean that the C45’s output will be significantly lower than the 550 horsepower of the range-topper.
The generation switch could also mean the end of the C43 Coupe or Convertible. Mercedes has removed some of its two-door models, which is consistent with logic. The Cs are most vulnerable. It appears that the C-Class Coupe or Convertible are coming soon, but we haven’t seen spy shots.
The C45 sedan and wagon versions could be revealed before the year ends or early 2021. The C63 body styles will follow at a later time.