Say Hello To The 400bhp Mercedes-AMG E43

We’re almost certain that a blistering V8-powered AMG E63 is on the way, but if the expected ~600bhp clout that beast will offer up sounds a bit much, how about this E43? Like the C43 and SLC 43 it’s powered by a twin-turbo, 3.0-litre V6, and it looks rather promising in an understated way.

It’s very much the semi-skimmed counterpart for the eventual full-fat E63, but thanks to 395bhp and 383lb ft of torque from the six-pot under the bonnet, it won’t be sluggish. 0-62mph takes just 4.6 seconds, while an electronic limiter stops the fun at 155mph. Power is sent to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic gearbox, with the rearmost tyres favoured thanks to a 31:69 torque split.

The chassis has been given a jolly good fettle, with the four-link front axle receiving new steering knuckles and load-bearing joints, while both the front and rear axles get a little more negative camber. You also get a set of three-way adaptive dampers with Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus modes.

The E43 will join the range in September this year, and will make its public debut at the New York Auto Show later this month.