2023 MOTORTREND NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE - PART 5

2023 BUYER'S GUIDE

MERCEDES-BENZ

C-CLASS The C-Class was all-new last year; 2023 sees the W206 generation get its first AMG spinoff, the C 43. This is an old name with a fresh twist: Although the previous C 43 had a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6, the new car gets a turbocharged and mildly hybridized 2.0-liter four-cylinder. (This makes the C 43 the first Mercedes performance sedan with a longitudinally mounted four-pot since the 1989–1993 190E 2.5-16.) Power output is 402 hp and 369 lb-ft versus 385 hp and 384 lb-ft in the outgoing C 43. The standard 4Matic all-wheel drive has a fixed 31/69 percent front/rear torque split.

The C 43’s clever turbocharger is largely exhaust driven, but an 8-hp electric motor mounted between the turbine and compressor spools up at low engine speeds when exhaust pressure is insufficient. We’ve driven the new C 43, and the reduced turbo lag is evident—but so is the lack of low-end power compared to the old V-6. Handling and braking are superb, which will help it compete against the Audi S4 and BMW M340i.

CLA-CLASS The CLA can be had with the AMG Edition 55 package to celebrate the tuning arm’s emerald anniversary. A classic AMG badge, unique exterior graphics, and a thorough interior trimming defines the aesthetic end of things; wind tunnel-tested aerodynamic bits—front splitter, front canards, a rear wing, and a rear diffuser—look to increase performance.