New Mercedes-AMG C43 spotted testing

• Expected to have around 400bhp
• Will sit below range-topping C63 model
• On sale in 2021

The new Mercedes-AMG C43 has been spotted testing. The car will sit below the range-topping C63 and will rival the BMW 3 Series M340i, leaving the C63 to battle it out with the BMW M3. You’ll see the C43 in showrooms next year, and prices should start at under £55,000.

The new car is likely to be powered by a new 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine that produces around 400bhp. Like the similarly priced Mercedes-AMG A45 S and Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S, the C43 will continue to be four-wheel drive. We’d expect 0-62mph to be dealt with in around 4.5 seconds, a couple of tenths quicker than the current model.

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It won’t just be the engine that’ll be upgraded over the standard Mercedes C-Class; as it’s an AMG model, the C43 will get lots of chassis improvements. Adaptive dampers are likely to be fitted, along with stiffened anti-roll bars and enormous drilled brake discs. The C43 will also get large alloy wheels.

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Other styling changes will include more aggressive-looking front and rear bumpers, a new grille, deeper air intakes, a new diffuser and four exhaust pipes.

Sports seats will be fitted, along with a sporty-looking flat-bottomed steering wheel, contrasting trim pieces and aluminium pedals. We’re told the new car will get digital dials and a much larger central touchscreen than the outgoing model.

Read our Mercedes C-Class review for more on the car you can buy now, or check out our guide to the best executive cars on sale.