What's all this about?
As promised in our news story from December 1, Mercedes and AMG are filling the gaps between standard Mercedes-Benz products and full-on AMG performance machines. One of the first creations from this new sporting line-up is the C 450 AMG 4Matic, unveiled in Detroit.
Excellent, is it quick?
Indecently so, for something that has to fit in below the forthcoming Mercedes-AMG C 63. It can do 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds as a saloon (5.0 for the estate) and goes on to the familiar limited maximum of 155mph.
How does it achieve these numbers?
A twin-turbocharged, 90-degree V6 engine of 3.0 litres in capacity is breathed upon by AMG (it has confirmed increased boost pressure is one of the methods used, although there are other as-yet unspecified updates involved) to deliver 367hp at 5,500rpm and 518Nm of torque from 2,000- to 4,200rpm. As the 4Matic in its name suggests, drive goes to all four wheels via a seven-speed automatic gearbox that takes its software mapping from the SpeedShift transmission found in full-on AMGs.
Does it use the standard C-Class chassis, though?
No, know-how gleaned from the C 63 filters into the C 450, so it incorporates adjustable dampers, firmer springs and a host of other suspension componentry upgrades. The 4Matic system is biased 33/67 per cent in favour of the rear axle, with the ESP stability control retuned to suit. The C 450 has 18-inch wheels with wide tyres as standard and ventilated steel brake discs that are 360mm/320mm front/rear.
What about the differences outside?
It's more subtle than a C 63, but sportier than the C 300 BlueTec Hybrid, the next model down in Merc's UK C-Class range. Large air ducts at the front, a revised grille, black exterior mirror caps and burnished chrome quad tailpipes are the key differences, aside from the boot badging. Both saloon and estate come with subtle rear spoilers.
Can you give me a good reason why I shouldn't pick one of these over a C 63?
Erm, we're struggling. On paper, the C 450 looks incredibly capable and it should be priced in the £40,000 ballpark when it goes on sale here in June. With a lighter engine than the 63's 4.0-litre V8 at the front, plus admirable performance stats, this thing should be incredible. Especially as it tops all of this punch off with figures of 37.2mpg and 178g/km CO2.
Matt Robinson - 12 Jan 2015
