2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 shows the middle child can be exciting

Mercedes-Benz is rapidly expanding the number of AMG-branded models in its lineup, and the 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 at the New York Auto Show is a perfect example of that proliferation. A full-bore replacement for the E63 AMG is certainly on the way eventually, and the E43 is a middle step in the lineup for now. It's hotter than the 241-horsepower E300, but the new sedan's 396-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 couldn't stand up to the to the 577 hp from the previous-gen E63 S.

The E43's engine sends its power to a rear-biased 4Matic all-wheel drive system that routes through a nine-speed automatic. Even if this isn't the ultimate AMG iteration of the latest E-Class, it's still pretty quick. The run to 60 miles per hour takes 4.5 seconds, which is a huge upgrade over the E300's 6.3-second sprint.

Mercedes matches the E43's extra power with subdued exterior upgrades. There's a new front bumper, 19-inch wheels, and dual exhausts at each rear corner. Inside, red accent stitching hints to occupants that this sedan is capable of greater performance than the stock model. You can get a fantastic look at the E43 in the gallery above, but they don't arrive at dealers in the US until early 2017.



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