In today’s automotive landscape, luxury car buyers are spoiled for choice, and Mercedes-Benz stands out for offering an extensive range of models, from sporty coupes to versatile SUVs. When the tenth-generation E-Class debuted for the 2017 model year, Mercedes-Benz continued this tradition of variety, presenting four distinct body styles – sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible – alongside compelling models that bridge different segments, such as the dynamic 2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 Sedan.
The 2018 E-Class lineup boasts five distinct models, each carefully crafted to deliver varying degrees of performance, style, and opulence. The 2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 effectively succeeds the previous-generation E550, providing an engaging AMG experience for discerning drivers who seek enhanced sportiness without escalating to the more potent and pricier E63 S. Unlike the E550, the E 43 benefits from comprehensive AMG enhancements, positioning it as a formidable competitor against luxury performance sedans like the BMW 550i and Cadillac CTS VSport.
To truly appreciate the nuances within the Mercedes-AMG E-Class family, we were granted a unique opportunity to conduct a back-to-back test of the E 43 and the E 63. Continue reading for our in-depth review of the 2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43, and stay tuned for our upcoming analysis of the more track-focused E 63 S.
2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 Exterior: Understated Sportiness
The 2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 distinguishes itself as the understated athlete within the new E-Class range. It houses a potent AMG engine beneath a body that largely echoes the refined elegance of a standard luxury sedan. In contrast to the more aggressive styling cues of the E63, such as its prominent front fascia, flared fenders, and rear diffuser, the E 43 adopts a smoother, more sophisticated aesthetic, closely aligned with the classic E-Class design. The current E-Class sedan embodies a design philosophy that leans towards conservatism by modern Mercedes-Benz standards. Its prominent grille and generously sized air intakes lend the E-Class a sporty sedan persona, while the upright roofline and extended rear overhang maximize interior space for both passengers and cargo.
Our test E 43 model exuded a more menacing presence, beginning with its deep Obsidian Black Metallic paint finish (a $720 option), complemented by carbon fiber mirror caps and trunk spoiler (part of the $1,750 AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber Package), and the $650 AMG Night Package, which introduces high-gloss black accents to elements like the front splitter, rear fascia trim, and exhaust outlets. Adding a touch of visual flair, this particular vehicle was also equipped with optional ($750) 20-inch AMG V-spoke wheels featuring black accents.
2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 Interior: Technology Meets Luxurious Sport
Mercedes-Benz has truly elevated the cabin experience in the new E-Class, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with opulent design. The 2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 amplifies this with a sporty edge that complements its AMG performance credentials. The centerpiece of the E-Class interior is undoubtedly the dual 12.3-inch high-definition displays that serve as both the instrument cluster and infotainment screen, creating a visually stunning widescreen effect. Navigating these screens is intuitive, offering multiple control methods including touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons and the console-mounted COMAND controller. The system’s user-friendliness ensures seamless interaction with its advanced features.
Regardless of the chosen trim level, the new E-Class interiors are inherently appealing, but our test model was further enhanced by an extensive array of optional upgrades. These included $2,990 AMG Macchiato Beige Nappa leather upholstery, a $1,600 designo black suede-like headliner, a $500 AMG performance flat-bottomed steering wheel trimmed in Nappa leather and suede-like Dinamica material, a $1,000 panoramic sunroof, and $600 metal wave trim accents spanning the instrument panel and door panels. Beyond aesthetics, the $6,500 Premium 3 Package introduced a suite of safety and convenience technologies, such as a Surround View camera system, head-up display, cabin fragrance system, and a power rear sunshade.
True to its heritage, the Mercedes E-Class prioritizes passenger comfort. The cabin comfortably accommodates five adults, and while the AMG seats offer enhanced support, they are designed to maintain a high level of comfort, even on longer journeys. The substantial 13.1 cubic feet of trunk space further affirms this mid-size luxury sedan’s readiness for any road trip. For enhanced comfort, our test vehicle included optional heated and cooled front seats ($450) and heated rear outboard seats ($580), alongside the $1,100 Acoustic Comfort package, ensuring a remarkably quiet cabin experience through increased insulation and acoustic glass for the windshield and side windows. As a final touch of audiophile indulgence, we experienced the exceptional clarity of the 23-speaker Burmester High-End 3D Sound System – a significant $4,550 option.
2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 Powertrain: AMG-Enhanced V6 Biturbo Power
Beneath the hood, the 2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 is powered by an AMG-tuned iteration of the 3.0-liter biturbo V-6 engine found in the E 400. However, in AMG guise, this engine delivers a more potent 396 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, a significant increase from the standard 329 horsepower and 354 lb-ft. This enhanced output propels the sporty sedan from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph. The engine is paired with an AMG-enhanced nine-speed automatic transmission, distributing power to all four wheels via Mercedes’ rear-biased 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. This powertrain combination achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy figures of 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway**, figures that remain surprisingly attainable even with spirited driving.
To sharpen handling dynamics, the E 43 incorporates an optimized AMG Sport Suspension and a recalibrated transmission for quicker gear changes. It also features upgraded braking components, including four-piston front calipers and cross-drilled rotors. The five-mode Dynamic Select system, featuring Sport and Sport+ modes, allows drivers to tailor the car’s character, seamlessly transitioning between a comfortable luxury cruiser and an agile performance machine. A particularly engaging feature is the “M” button on the center console, which activates a full manual transmission mode, holding each gear until the driver initiates a shift – a characteristic typically found in true sports cars – even if it means reaching the rev limiter.
2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 Safety: Comprehensive Protection
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, underscoring its commitment to occupant protection. The previously mentioned Premium 3 Package further enhances safety with an array of advanced driver-assistance systems, including Active Distance Assist Distronic, active lane change assist, active emergency stop assist, active brake assist with cross-traffic function, active steering assist, evasive steering assist, active lane keeping assist, active blind spot assist, rear-end collision protection, and adaptive high beam assist.
2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 Overall: The Perfect Blend
The 2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 convincingly demonstrates that there is always room for another exceptional performance sedan. For those who find the 603 horsepower, 3.3-second 0-60 mph sprint, and six-figure price tag of the E 63 excessive, the E 43 emerges as the ideal sport sedan. Positioned strategically within the E-Class lineup, the E 43 strikes a harmonious balance between luxury and sportiness, delivering ample performance to genuinely warrant the prestigious “Mercedes-AMG” badge.
This enhanced performance naturally comes with a price increase over the base $52,950 E 300, with the 2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 starting at $71,600. Equipped with nearly $26,000 in options (which, in our opinion, are well worth considering), our test E 43 reached an as-tested price of $97,460. While this figure approaches the starting price of the E 63 S, this particular vehicle serves as a compelling illustration of how effectively Mercedes-Benz blurs the lines between a traditional luxury sedan and a full-fledged performance powerhouse.
Visit your local AutoNation-affiliated Mercedes-Benz dealership today and experience the 2018 Mercedes-AMG E 43 for yourself with a test drive!
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.*Based on 2018 EPA mileage ratings. Your mileage will vary depending on specific vehicle trim, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
