Having spent time inside both the sedan and convertible versions of the 2020 C43, my initial impression is that Mercedes-Benz has crafted a vehicle that elevates the driving experience, potentially surpassing even established benchmarks like the BMW M3 in certain aspects of refinement. The interior immediately grabs your attention with its attractive seating, a beautifully designed steering wheel, and the sophisticated touch of a dark wood dashboard. While I didn’t have the opportunity to drive the C43 on this occasion, revving the engine of the convertible from outside provided a tantalizing auditory preview. The engine note was undeniably pleasing – not as aggressively loud as the M3, but possessing a deeper, smoother quality that hinted at potent performance lurking beneath the surface. It remains unclear whether the specific model I encountered was equipped with the performance exhaust system, but the sound alone was enough to pique interest.
Stepping into the BMW G20 afterwards, while it presented a more contemporary and tech-forward aesthetic, the interior didn’t necessarily feel a notch above the 2020 C43. For those who appreciate a modern, technology-driven cabin, the G20 might appeal, but certain elements, such as the plastic trim around the shifter, seemed somewhat underwhelming and less premium than expected. While the G20 represents a commendable refresh from the F30 generation, my initial impression leans slightly towards preferring the ambiance and perceived quality of the current C43 interior.
In terms of outright performance, both the 2020 C43 AMG and its competitors operate within a similar spectrum. Straight-line acceleration figures suggest comparable capabilities, with the C43 reportedly achieving around 12.7 seconds in the quarter-mile at approximately 112 mph. Observations of the BMW M340i indicate similar performance metrics. However, it’s worth noting the C43‘s skid pad performance, which, while registering a respectable 0.93g, is more than adequate for spirited road driving but doesn’t quite reach the levels of some more track-focused sports cars.
From an exterior styling perspective, the 2020 C43 sedan presents a pleasing aesthetic, though it doesn’t evoke overwhelming excitement. To truly project an assertive and dynamic presence, the sedan arguably benefits from a black exterior finish – a choice that demands dedication to maintenance. Otherwise, in lighter colors, the sedan might appear somewhat understated. When comparing sedans, the G20 M-Sport arguably holds a slight edge in visual appeal. However, the 2020 C43 coupe emerges as the more visually striking and distinctive option within the C-Class lineup, possessing a more special and captivating presence compared to its sedan counterpart.
