Mercedes-Benz recently introduced three locally assembled models from its performance brand, Mercedes-AMG; Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC, Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC, and Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4MATIC.
The new cars bring a host of technology and mechanical upgrades, as well as redesigns to keep the cars as sporty-looking as ever. The introduction of the locally assembled Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC has put Malaysia on the map as the first country outside Affalterbach to assemble a Mercedes-AMG vehicle following the brand’s ‘One Man, One Engine’ philosophy.
MERCEDES-AMG C 43 4MATIC – NEW TURBOCHARGER, A WORLD’S FIRST
At the heart of the new Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC is the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, which combines innovative technologies and high performance with exemplary efficiency. The internally named M139l engine (l for longitudinal installation) is the world’s first series-production engine to be turbocharged with an electric exhaust gas turbocharger. The innovative system is a direct derivative of the technology that the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team has been using so successfully in motorsport for many years. The new form of turbocharging guarantees particularly spontaneous response across the entire rev range. This leads to an even more dynamic driving experience, while increasing efficiency.
The rear axle steering, the AMG Performance 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with rear-biased torque distribution, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission with wet start-off clutch and the DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL suspension with Adaptive Damping System also all contribute to the sporty driving experience. In keeping with this, brand-specific equipment and appointments features as well as the details of the exterior and interior design emphasise the performance-oriented character of the new AMG C 43 4MATIC.
The equipment includes 5-twin-spoke 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, the latest-generation MBUX infotainment system, AMG-specific displays, AMG seats and the AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather with AMG steering wheel buttons. Numerous AMG-specific appointments fulfil the wishes of customers that desire high-performance driving in a mid-size executive sedan.
In the 2.0-litre four-cylinder in-line engine, innovative technology helps the AMG C 43 4MATIC to achieve a rated output of 408hp at 6750 rpm. The maximum torque of 500Nm is available at 5000 rpm. Depending on the situation, the system also briefly provides an additional boost of 14hp through the belt-driven starter generator (RSG). The second-generation RSG acts as a mild hybrid, providing this temporary power boost as well as functions such as gliding and recuperation for maximum efficiency. At the same time, the 48-volt technology also increases comfort, as the transitions between the start-stop function and the gliding mode function are almost imperceptible.
The AMG C 43 4MATIC accelerates from a standstill to 100kph in just 4.6 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited at 250kph. The AMG sports braking system with silver-painted brake callipers and black “AMG” lettering guarantees outstanding deceleration values and optimum control. On the AMG C 43 4MATIC, internally ventilated and perforated brake discs measuring 370 x 36 millimetres with 4-piston fixed callipers are fitted at the front axle, and discs measuring 320 x 24 millimetres with 1-piston floating callipers at the rear.
The AMG exhaust system with its sporty engine sound provides the appropriate acoustic background. Depending on the drive program selected, the noise level ranges from balanced and discreet to emotionally sporty. The sound characteristics are controlled via an exhaust gas flap, depending on engine speed and load.
Outside as well as inside, numerous AMG-specific details underscore both the dynamic and the luxurious character of the AMG C 43 4MATIC. In terms of exterior design, these include the AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical struts in chrome, the AMG front apron with flics, sporty air intakes and chrome-plated trim element, the matching side sill panels, the diffuser-look rear apron and the two round twin-tailpipe trim elements. The panoramic sliding sunroof allows ample light to enter the cabin and the included DIGITAL LIGHT constantly adapts the illumination of the road to the lighting conditions, the traffic situation, the course of the road and the weather.
In the interior, such features as AMG seats with a distinctive upholstery layout and seat covers in ARTICO man-made leather/MICROCUT microfibre in black with red contrasting stitching and red seat belts provide a particularly sporty touch. The two round AMG steering wheel buttons allow fast and unerring operation of various dynamic driving functions and of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs. The instrument panel and the beltlines are upholstered in ARTICO man-made leather in Nappa look with red topstitching.
The AMG C 43 4MATIC comes with a 12.3-inch driver display and 11.9-inch central display housing the MBUX. The MBUX infotainment system includes various AMG-specific displays and functions. These include special displays in the instrument cluster, in the portrait-format multimedia central display in the centre console and in the head-up display. Added to this is the shortcut button for the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs. AMG TRACK PACE, the data logger for use on the race track, is also integrated. The software records more than 80 vehicle-specific data such as speed, acceleration, steering angle and brake pedal actuation ten times per second while the car is being driving around a race track. In addition, there is a display of lap and sector times as well as additional training and analysis tools. Also included is the MBUX augmented reality for navigation, hard-disc navigation, fingerprint scanner, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and ambient lighting.
The safety features within the AMG C 43 4MATIC include Driving Assistance Package Plus with Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC, and Active Lane Keeping Assist. In addition to that, the vehicle comes with Parking Package with 360-degree camera, as well as GUARD 360° Vehicle protection.
The Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC is priced at MYR 443,888 (including 10% ST) for Peninsular Malaysia. Price is on the road, without insurance.
MERCEDES-AMG A 35 4MATIC – NEW LOOK & POWER SUPPLY
The revised front headlamps, the AMG-specific radiator grille and the new, round badge with the AMG emblem instead of the Mercedes star with a laurel wreath, immediately stands out when looking at the new Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC. In addition, a new front apron and the power domes provide the AMG A 35 4MATIC with a new, coherent AMG face.
The AMG look is underlined by the new wheel design, the rear spoiler lip, revised rear headlamps, and the hallmark round exhaust pipes. The AMG A 35 4MATIC comes with 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, red-painted brake callipers, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus.
The AMG A 35 4MATIC offers the AMG Performance steering wheel including AMG steering wheel buttons, with which the driver can control AMG-specific features such as the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT – without taking their hands off the steering wheel. The AMG A 35 4MATIC’s new version of steering wheel with new touch-control panels, providing enhanced functionality and convenience is wrapped in Nappa leather. In addition, the vehicle comes with sport seats.
The ARTICO man-made leather / MICROCUT microfibre AMG upholstery with Aluminium AMG Design trim elements in black / silver comes equipped in the AMG A 35 4MATIC. The vehicle includes MANUFAKTUR seat belts in red, AMG floor mats, ambient lighting in 64 colours, and AMG illuminated door sills with “AMG” lettering and with exchangeable cover which further elevates its sportiness.
The Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC is now equipped with a 48-volt auxiliary power supply and belt-driven starter-generator (RSG) and achieves an output of 306hp with a maximum torque of 400Nm. As a mild hybrid, the RSG supports agility with 10kW more power at start-up. In addition, an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8-speed transmission is now on board and the new front radiator facilitates temperature management at the limit.
The new AMG A 35 4MATIC also benefits from the latest MBUX generation (NTG7): increased performance, more USB charging power and the new hallmark AMG screen design make driving in the new vehicle an interactive pleasure. The vehicle comes equipped with the USB Package Plus and Burmester surround sound system.
The Mercedes-AMG A 35 4MATIC is priced at MYR 343,888 (including 10% ST) for Peninsular Malaysia. Price is on the road, without insurance.
MERCEDES-AMG GLA 34 4MATIC – LOOKS UPDATED, ENGINE UPGRADED
The new Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4MATIC is refreshed with many innovations. The newly styled front apron with new geometry and grille, and the light signatures at the front and rear make a strong visual statement. It features MULTIBEAM LED headlights paired with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus. The AMG GLA 35 4MATIC also comes with 20-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels now with striking red-painted brake calipers and wheel arches in vehicle colour.
The latest generation of the AMG Performance steering wheel in Nappa leather features the AMG steering wheel buttons which impresses drivers with bright displays and the intuitive control logic. Drivers can access important functions and all driving programs without taking their hands off the wheel. The button on the right helps with the selection between 5 AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs namely Slippery, COMFORT, SPORT, Sport+, and INDIVIDUAL.
The latest generation of MBUX infotainment system running on the dual 10.25-inch screens is also state-of-the-art, with an AMG-specific screen design and expanded functions. Apple Car Play and Android Auto can be connected wirelessly to the vehicle. Connectivity is improved with USB Package Plus featuring higher USB charging performance and an additional USB-C port. The AMG GLA 35 4MATIC comes with MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation and MBUX Navigation Premium helping drivers navigate through the city. With 12 speakers and a system output of 710 watts, passengers are treated to the legendary Burmester sound. The high-performance speakers deliver first-class surround sound.
In terms of comfort, the AMG GLA 35 4MATIC is fully equipped with features such as, THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control, Ambient lighting with 64 colours, and Sport seats in ARTICO man-made leather / MICROCUT microfibre upholstery. The Carbon-structure trim and MANUFAKTUR seat belts in red lend the interior an individual look. The vehicle is equipped with KEYLESS-GO Convenience Package, EASY-PACK tailgate, HANDS-FREE ACCESS, GUARD 360° Vehicle protection, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System providing convenience and protection while on the go.
The AMG GLA 35 4MATIC also provides several driver assistance systems such as the Active Lane Keeping Assist that improves comfort by intervening with a gentle nudge instead of activating the ESP system. The next generation of the Parking Package supports parallel parking and offers 360° visualisation in camera-assisted parking using 3D images. In addition, the vehicle includes Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist, and Exit Warning Assist.
On the engine side, the AMG GLA 35 4MATIC will now be fitted with the belt-driven starter generator (RSG) and an additional 48-volt on-board power supply as standard. The second-generation RSG functions as a mild hybrid. In addition to the temporary power boost of 14PS, it permits such functions as coasting and recuperation for greater efficiency. The 48-volt technology also improves comfort, with the transitions of the start/stop and coasting function barely noticeable. The 306hp output of the agile, high-torque 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo engine is distributed to all four wheels via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G transmission and the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The sporty driving performance is combined with a wide range of driving experience modes, from highly dynamic to smooth touring.
The Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 4MATIC is priced at MYR 363,888 (including 10% ST) for Peninsular Malaysia. Price is on the road, without insurance.
