Slotting in above the E300 in the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class range is the new, performance-oriented E43 from Mercedes-AMG.
Technically referred to as the Mercedes-AMG E43, the car is powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 engine rated at 396 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, the latter of which is available from 2,500 rpm to 5,000 rpm.
The automaker's 4Matic all-wheel-drive system will come as standard, as will a 9-speed automatic transmission. Despite boasting AWD, the E43 will bias its power in favor of the rear wheels, 31:69. Line the E43 up at a drag strip and Mercedes-AMG says it will sprint to 60 mph from a stop in 4.5 seconds before topping out an electronically-limited 155 mph.
Building on the E300, the E43 adds an air suspension with three modes and a special steering system with two modes of its own to deliver a sportier ride and handling setup. An AMG Dynamic Select button switches between five transmission modes.
2017 Mercedes-AMG E43
To stand apart from the more luxury-oriented E300, the E43 has its own body kit and 19-inch AMG alloy wheels or optional 20-inch alloy wheels. A chrome-plated quad-tipped exhaust serves as a reminder to those behind that the car was tuned by AMG.
Inside, the E43 AMG comes standard with MB-Tex/Dinamica faux leather upholstery and it offers leather seats as an option. MB-Tex covers the door panels and dashboard, where it is finished off with red stitching. Additionally, the car will feature black and red seat belts for a more unique look.
Mercedes-AMG formally introduced the E43 this week at the 2016 New York Auto Show. The car arrives in showrooms early in 2017.
A more powerful model will take the place of last year's E63 at the top of the line, but the E43 is designed to be a sporty middle ground between the E300 and the flagship.
For more from the New York Auto Show, head to our dedicated hub.
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