Mercedes introduces the details of the C450 AMG 4Matic
Fri, Feb 27 2015
In the case of the C450 AMG 4Matic, that means a twin-turbo six-cylinder with 367 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, an increase of 38 hp and 29 lb-ft over the C400 4Matic on which it's based. It goes much closer to proper AMG territory with its looks and features, with that sharp, chrome-trimmed lip in front, the oblong lower intakes, lightweight wheels, and a "special AMG badge" on the front fenders. In back, the sedan gets a spoiler on the trunk, the wagon gets a roof spoiler.
There's a suspension highly derivative of that on the C63 AMG, with three-stage dampers. So too the five drive modes laid out like on traditional AMGs, the 7G-Tronic automatic transmission, the ESP with Curve Dynamic Assist, and it will even sound close to an Affalterbach special thanks to a sports exhaust. Cabin occupants can play the real deal with sport seats and a flat-bottomed wheel with red cross-stitching.
We don't have a price yet, but there will probably be plenty of room between the price of the AMG C63 and the $48,950 C400 4Matic to make buyers happy. The press release below has all the info.
Related Video:
The new C-Class models from Mercedes-AMG: Mercedes-AMG C 63 and Mercedes-Benz C 450 AMG 4MATIC
Mercedes-Benz C 450 AMG 4MATIC: Second AMG sports model with V6 power
Driving Performance – the AMG brand claim and typical character traits can now be experienced by an even broader target group. The new C 450 AMG 4MATIC expands the product range of the sports car and performance brand within Mercedes-Benz with another new AMG sports model. As an attractive entry into the world of AMG, the C 450 AMG 4MATIC combines a 270 kW (367 hp) 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine with a permanent Performance all-wheel-drive system and sophisticated suspension technology adopted from the Mercedes-AMG C 63. This all results in fascinating driving performance and the hallmark emotional expressiveness of the brand. The new AMG sports model is available as a Saloon and an Estate model, and makes the extensive product line-up within the C-Class range even more attractive.
Stuttgart, Feb 24, 2015 -- The new AMG sports models boast impressive product features. Even at first glance, the characteristic AMG body styling leaves no doubt that this model is part of the Mercedes-AMG model family. Another indication of the new model strategy is found in the form of a special AMG badge on the front wings. From an engineering standpoint, the AMG sports models deliver perfectly on the visual promise of a sporty character, with a powerful engine, the standard-fit AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system with rear-biased torque split, and sophisticated suspension solutions.
In addition to the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe, the C 450 AMG 4MATIC represents the second stage of the new model initiative. Further emotionally inspiring AMG sports models will follow.
Authentic driving dynamics thanks to hallmark AMG DNA
The new C 450 AMG 4MATIC is based on the most powerful production model of the C-Class, the C 400 4MATIC. The engineers have revised many technical features of the new AMG sports model. Their objective: a high level of authentic driving dynamics that uses the Mercedes-AMG C 63 for reference. To this end, a host of suspension components were adopted from the top-of-the-line V8 model. The driver also feels the DNA of the C 63 in the application of the engine and transmission management. Agility and sportiness dominate the intense driving experience in the C 450 AMG 4MATIC every mile of the way.
Key data at a glance: Mercedes-Benz C 450 AMG 4MATIC
Displacement 2996 cc
Bore x stroke 88.0 x 82.1 mm
Output 270 kW (367 hp) at 5500 - 6000 rpm
Peak torque 520 Nm at 2000 - 4200 rpm
Power-to-swept-volume ratio 90.1 kW (122.5 hp)
Fuel consumptionNEDC combined 7.6 l/100 km (7.7 l/100 km)
CO2 emissions 178 g/km (180 g/km)
Efficiency class D
Emissions standard EU6
Kerb weight (according to EC) 1615 kg* / 1690 kg** (1660 kg* / 1735 kg**)
Acceleration 0-100 km/h 4.9 s (5.0 s)
Top speed 250 km/h***
Figures in brackets for Estate
* Ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, without driver and luggage)
** Ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg)
*** Electronically limited
The new 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine is part of the BlueDIRECT engine family from Mercedes-Benz. Technical advances including a modified boost pressure allowed the AMG engineers to increase the engine's power output and torque. With 270 kW (367 hp) and 520 Newton metres the V6 engine sets new standards in its segment – as demonstrated by its impressive performance: acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds (Estate: 5.0 seconds) underscores the sporty temperament of the C 450 AMG 4MATIC. With combined fuel consumption of 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of 178 grams per kilometre (Estate: 7.7 litres and 180 g CO2 per km) the new top-of-the-line V6 model defines an absolute top position in the competitive environment.
High-tech for dynamism and efficiency
The cutting-edge six-cylinder has a bore/stroke ratio of 88.0 x 82.1 millimetres, and develops its peak torque between 2000 and 4000 rpm. High output and a powerful torque curve combined with high efficiency and the lowest emissions in this class – sheer high-tech provides the basis for the exhilarating characteristics of the V6 biturbo engine: The V6 member of the BlueDIRECT engine family shares many technologies with the new V8 biturbo. The high volumetric efficiency is ensured by the turbocharger package configured to the engine and the piezo injection technology.
Serene or dynamic: the choice is yours
Thanks to hefty torque, the new AMG sports model is agile, direct and dynamic. With the help of various AMG-specific drive programmes the driver is able to tailor the character of the C 450 AMG 4MATIC to his or her personal preferences: The modes "Eco", "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport +", plus "Individual" are available. The drive modes adjust the suspension, steering and powertrain as desired, and are selected conveniently with the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch to the left of the touchpad. Below it are the buttons for the 3-stage Ride Control sports suspension and ESP®. The button for the ECO start/stop function is located on the right.
Especially the "Sport+" mode delivers impressive hallmark AMG dynamics and enhances the emotional appeal: partial cylinder suppression during gear changes by means of a momentary and precisely defined retardation of ignition and injection under full throttle speeds up the gear changes, and is also audible to the driver. The emotional double-declutching functions during downshifts and the "exhaust rumbling" in overrun mode provide the fitting accompaniment. The throaty engine sound – a hallmark AMG experience – also plays a crucial role in the most powerful V6 model: to this end, the engineers have developed a new sports exhaust system with lower back-pressure and reduced weight.
The driving sensation is also characterised by the set-up of the accelerator pedal: The more the driver changes the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT settings from "ECO" towards "Sport+", the more spontaneous and dynamic is the throttle response of the V6 biturbo engine. The driver can also experience authentic and emotional dynamics during engine start if desired: when the twin-turbo V6 engine is started in the "Sport+" drive programme, the engine speed quickly jumps to 2000 rpm for a moment before immediately settling back down to idle speed. Whether the driver wants to experience the engine start accompanied by a sporty or a more subdued sound depends on the most recently activated drive programme – this remains stored for four hours.
The "Eco" programme integrates an ECO start/stop function and a sailing function to reduce fuel consumption: when the driver releases the accelerator in the speed range between 60 and 160 km/h, the clutch of the transmission is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The electronics reduce the engine speed to idle level, and the driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.
7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with short response times
The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission responds with superior composure or maximum spontaneity depending on the driver's preference and selected transmission mode. "Sport+" mode delivers thrillingly short response times: the driver's shift commands are implemented at lightning speed – the powertrain responds spontaneously and precisely. The development engineers have also taken advantage of numerous hardware and software solutions of the C 63 in this regard. The 'M' button on the centre console allows savouring the high pulling power across the entire rev range. In manual transmission mode the 7G-TRONIC PLUS no longer shifts to the next-highest gear on its own, even when prompted by kick-down or upon reaching the redline speed. The driver alone makes the decisions about shifting via the steering-wheel paddle shifters.
The momentary 'M' mode offers another feature: it combines the performance of manual gear changes with automatic upshifts and downshifts. The driver has the option to shift up or down at any time with the paddle shifters. If no gear change is requested, the transmission independently reverts to the automatic shift mode after a defined period of time has passed.
The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission features a dual-turbine torsional damper with a speed-sensitive centrifugal pendulum, which minimises vibrations and enhances the occupants' perceived comfort.
AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with special axles and adjustable dampers
Agility and sportiness: in the new C 450 AMG 4MATIC the driver can experience every mile of the way why AMG has been successful in motor racing as the sports car and performance brand of Mercedes-Benz for more than four decades. The basis for this intense experience is the combination of permanent Performance all-wheel-drive system and the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension. The 3-stage damper adjustment borrows features from the top-of-the-line V8 model Mercedes-AMG C 63, and combines high agility with superior everyday practicality.
The highlight of the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension is the combination of independently developed axle components with high aluminium content and electronically controlled shock absorbers with 3-stage adjustment range. The driver of the C 450 AMG 4MATIC can select a tailor-made suspension set-up using the transmission modes or at the push of a button. The spectrum ranges from balanced long-distance comfort to maximum sportiness.
The technical features of the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension are characterised by components with sophisticated design: the four-link front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components have been optimised in terms of rigidity. A more negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle enhances lateral dynamics. Stiffening of the body shell improves steering behaviour, feedback during cornering, and tyre noise. The elastokinematics of both axles have been designed to be more rigid in general. All these measures improve the precision and agility, and boost the dynamics. In addition, the driver benefits from reduced body roll, higher lateral acceleration, better traction, and strong neutral handling at the limit. In short: the C 450 AMG 4MATIC is a very agile sports model on the one hand, while optimised pull rods and front-axle carrier mounts ensure the hallmark Mercedes long-distance comfort on the other.
Optimum traction thanks to AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive
The all-wheel drive system familiar from a number of AMG high-performance cars is also used on the C 450 AMG 4MATIC. The perfect grip during acceleration effectively prevents losses caused by slip. For thrilling driving dynamics 33 percent of the engine power is allocated to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle. The rear-biased torque split results in higher agility around the vehicle's vertical axis. Another major factor here is the sportier set-up of the ESP® with Curve Dynamic Assist. The tangible effects for sporty drivers are lateral dynamics and cornering performance increased to an above-average level.
Steering and braking system support a dynamic driving style
The electromechanical, speed-sensitive sports steering assists in finding the ideal line and enjoying a dynamic driving style. The agile handling benefits from the direct and constant AMG-specific steering ratio including optimised tuning and response. The steering forces are adapted electronically to the given vehicle speed in optimal fashion. In addition, the optimal steering characteristics are selected depending on the activated drive programme – in the "Sport" and "Sport Plus" modes to deliver a sporty steering feel for a dynamic driving style on twisty roads or to deliver a comfortable steering feel in the "Eco" or "Comfort" modes. The "Individual" programme offers an additional choice. For example, it allows combining sporty firm steering characteristics with a comfortable suspension set-up – or vice-versa.
The sports braking system of the C 450 AMG 4MATIC impresses with fade-free and effective stopping power. Standard equipment includes vented brake discs all-round measuring 360 millimetres in diameter at the front and 320 millimetres at the rear, as well as grey brake callipers with "Mercedes-Benz" lettering at the front.
Design features bear the unmistakable imprint of AMG
The fascination of motor racing in everyday life – the C 450 AMG 4MATIC incorporates this combination visually as well: The second AMG sports model is based on the AMG Line equipment package, and immediately signifies that it is part of the unique AMG family. Defining design elements are the AMG body styling, the light-alloy wheels and the special AMG badge on the front wings. They underscore the progressive nature and performance of the brand. The engine cover with red aluminium insert likewise visualises the strengths of the new twin-turbo six-cylinder engine.
The AMG body styling includes the front apron with sporty, distinctive air intakes, diamond meshes and silver chrome trim, as well as the rear apron with matt iridium silver diffuser insert. The simulated air vents on the sides are not only reminiscent of the top C 63 V8 model, they also form defined spoiler lips to improve the Cd figure. Two twin exhaust tailpipes in a special design accentuate the sporty look.
The Saloon features a new, expressive spoiler lip on the boot lid, the Estate a roof spoiler. Both additionally improve road adhesion at the rear axle. The model badges "C 450" (left) and "4MATIC" (right) are affixed to the boot lid or tailgate.
Silver chrome and high-gloss black exterior elements lend the C 450 AMG 4MATIC a sporty and expressive character. The radiator grille sports a high-gloss black louvre and chrome inserts. The diamond grille adorned with chrome pins adds special flair. Other highlights include the exterior mirror housings, waistline trim strips and window surrounds in high-gloss black.
Customers are also able to order the optional Night package: this includes dark-tinted thermal insulation glass from the B-pillars to the rear, a trim element in the front apron, the diffuser-look insert at the rear in high-gloss black and two twin exhaust tailpipes in black chrome.
5-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in black with a high-sheen finish round off the design perfectly. Size 225/45 R 18 tyres on 7.5 x 18 light-alloy wheels are fitted at the front, while the rear axle comes with 245/40 R 18 tyres on 8.5 x 18 wheels. Attractive 48.3-cm (19") light-alloy wheels in various designs are optionally available for even greater individualisation.
Interior with exclusive, sporty flair
The C 450 AMG 4MATIC fascinates with exclusivity and sportiness in the interior as well. The pleasant touch and feel of the materials and the quality of workmanship ensure an impressively classy setting and an emotional passenger experience. A high-quality start-up display welcomes the driver: the central screen in the dashboard displays AMG lettering in the style of the AMG badges on the front wings, which are specific to the sports models.
The ARTICO/DINAMICA upholstery and the instrument panel trimmed with black ARTICO man-made leather convey the sporty ambience in superior fashion. ARTICO is also used on the upper edges of the body, the armrests, the door centre panels and the centre console. Red contrasting topstitching, designo red safety belts and black floor mats with red edging add attractive highlights. The light aluminium trim with a longitudinal grain inset into the dashboard and doors effectively contrasts with the black piano lacquer look of the centre console.
Sports seats with AMG-specific seat upholstery layout and pronounced lateral support offer long-distance comfort and brace the passengers during dynamic cornering. A fitting complement to the sporty handling is the 3-spoke black nappa leather multifunction sports steering wheel with a flattened lower rim section. A loving attention to details such as red contrasting topstitching, the moulded grip area and steering-wheel shift paddles and the steering-wheel trim in silver chrome contribute to the appealing look and feel.
The instrument cluster also features the typical AMG style: this source of information comprises dials in the sporty "chequered flag" design, a 280 km/h speedometer scale, red speedometer needles and a specific typography.
Other standard equipment features of the C 450 AMG 4MATIC (selection):
- ADAPTIVE BRAKE
- ATTENTION ASSIST
- Audio 20 USB multimedia system
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
- ECO start/stop function
- ISOFIX child seat attachment system
- Sports pedals
- Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC
Additional AMG optional extras (selection):
- 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, tyres in size 225/40 R 19 on 7.5 x 19 rims (front) and 255/35 R 19 on 8.5 x 19 (rear)
- 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish, tyres in size 225/40 R 19 on 7.5 x 19 rims (front) and 255/35 R 19 on 8.5 x 19 (rear)
- Multi-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, tyres in size 225/40 R 19 on 7.5 x 19 rims (front) and 255/35 R 19 on 8.5 x 19 (rear)
- Multi-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish, tyres in size 225/40 R 19 on 7.5 x 19 rims (front) and 255/35 R 19 on 8.5 x 19 (rear)
- Performance seats for driver and passenger, with more heavily contoured seat for enhanced lateral support, integral head restraints and AMG badge in the backrests
- designo leather seat upholstery
- Lugano leather seat upholstery
- Carbon-fibre/light aluminium trim with longitudinal grain
Mercedes-Benz C 450 AMG 4MATIC: Second AMG sports model with V6 power
Driving Performance – the AMG brand claim and typical character traits can now be experienced by an even broader target group. The new C 450 AMG 4MATIC expands the product range of the sports car and performance brand within Mercedes-Benz with another new AMG sports model. As an attractive entry into the world of AMG, the C 450 AMG 4MATIC combines a 270 kW (367 hp) 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine with a permanent Performance all-wheel-drive system and sophisticated suspension technology adopted from the Mercedes-AMG C 63. This all results in fascinating driving performance and the hallmark emotional expressiveness of the brand. The new AMG sports model is available as a Saloon and an Estate model, and makes the extensive product line-up within the C-Class range even more attractive.
Stuttgart, Feb 24, 2015 -- The new AMG sports models boast impressive product features. Even at first glance, the characteristic AMG body styling leaves no doubt that this model is part of the Mercedes-AMG model family. Another indication of the new model strategy is found in the form of a special AMG badge on the front wings. From an engineering standpoint, the AMG sports models deliver perfectly on the visual promise of a sporty character, with a powerful engine, the standard-fit AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system with rear-biased torque split, and sophisticated suspension solutions.
In addition to the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe, the C 450 AMG 4MATIC represents the second stage of the new model initiative. Further emotionally inspiring AMG sports models will follow.
Authentic driving dynamics thanks to hallmark AMG DNA
The new C 450 AMG 4MATIC is based on the most powerful production model of the C-Class, the C 400 4MATIC. The engineers have revised many technical features of the new AMG sports model. Their objective: a high level of authentic driving dynamics that uses the Mercedes-AMG C 63 for reference. To this end, a host of suspension components were adopted from the top-of-the-line V8 model. The driver also feels the DNA of the C 63 in the application of the engine and transmission management. Agility and sportiness dominate the intense driving experience in the C 450 AMG 4MATIC every mile of the way.
Key data at a glance: Mercedes-Benz C 450 AMG 4MATIC
Displacement 2996 cc
Bore x stroke 88.0 x 82.1 mm
Output 270 kW (367 hp) at 5500 - 6000 rpm
Peak torque 520 Nm at 2000 - 4200 rpm
Power-to-swept-volume ratio 90.1 kW (122.5 hp)
Fuel consumptionNEDC combined 7.6 l/100 km (7.7 l/100 km)
CO2 emissions 178 g/km (180 g/km)
Efficiency class D
Emissions standard EU6
Kerb weight (according to EC) 1615 kg* / 1690 kg** (1660 kg* / 1735 kg**)
Acceleration 0-100 km/h 4.9 s (5.0 s)
Top speed 250 km/h***
Figures in brackets for Estate
* Ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, without driver and luggage)
** Ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90% full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg)
*** Electronically limited
The new 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine is part of the BlueDIRECT engine family from Mercedes-Benz. Technical advances including a modified boost pressure allowed the AMG engineers to increase the engine's power output and torque. With 270 kW (367 hp) and 520 Newton metres the V6 engine sets new standards in its segment – as demonstrated by its impressive performance: acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds (Estate: 5.0 seconds) underscores the sporty temperament of the C 450 AMG 4MATIC. With combined fuel consumption of 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of 178 grams per kilometre (Estate: 7.7 litres and 180 g CO2 per km) the new top-of-the-line V6 model defines an absolute top position in the competitive environment.
High-tech for dynamism and efficiency
The cutting-edge six-cylinder has a bore/stroke ratio of 88.0 x 82.1 millimetres, and develops its peak torque between 2000 and 4000 rpm. High output and a powerful torque curve combined with high efficiency and the lowest emissions in this class – sheer high-tech provides the basis for the exhilarating characteristics of the V6 biturbo engine: The V6 member of the BlueDIRECT engine family shares many technologies with the new V8 biturbo. The high volumetric efficiency is ensured by the turbocharger package configured to the engine and the piezo injection technology.
Serene or dynamic: the choice is yours
Thanks to hefty torque, the new AMG sports model is agile, direct and dynamic. With the help of various AMG-specific drive programmes the driver is able to tailor the character of the C 450 AMG 4MATIC to his or her personal preferences: The modes "Eco", "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport +", plus "Individual" are available. The drive modes adjust the suspension, steering and powertrain as desired, and are selected conveniently with the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch to the left of the touchpad. Below it are the buttons for the 3-stage Ride Control sports suspension and ESP®. The button for the ECO start/stop function is located on the right.
Especially the "Sport+" mode delivers impressive hallmark AMG dynamics and enhances the emotional appeal: partial cylinder suppression during gear changes by means of a momentary and precisely defined retardation of ignition and injection under full throttle speeds up the gear changes, and is also audible to the driver. The emotional double-declutching functions during downshifts and the "exhaust rumbling" in overrun mode provide the fitting accompaniment. The throaty engine sound – a hallmark AMG experience – also plays a crucial role in the most powerful V6 model: to this end, the engineers have developed a new sports exhaust system with lower back-pressure and reduced weight.
The driving sensation is also characterised by the set-up of the accelerator pedal: The more the driver changes the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT settings from "ECO" towards "Sport+", the more spontaneous and dynamic is the throttle response of the V6 biturbo engine. The driver can also experience authentic and emotional dynamics during engine start if desired: when the twin-turbo V6 engine is started in the "Sport+" drive programme, the engine speed quickly jumps to 2000 rpm for a moment before immediately settling back down to idle speed. Whether the driver wants to experience the engine start accompanied by a sporty or a more subdued sound depends on the most recently activated drive programme – this remains stored for four hours.
The "Eco" programme integrates an ECO start/stop function and a sailing function to reduce fuel consumption: when the driver releases the accelerator in the speed range between 60 and 160 km/h, the clutch of the transmission is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The electronics reduce the engine speed to idle level, and the driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.
7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with short response times
The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission responds with superior composure or maximum spontaneity depending on the driver's preference and selected transmission mode. "Sport+" mode delivers thrillingly short response times: the driver's shift commands are implemented at lightning speed – the powertrain responds spontaneously and precisely. The development engineers have also taken advantage of numerous hardware and software solutions of the C 63 in this regard. The 'M' button on the centre console allows savouring the high pulling power across the entire rev range. In manual transmission mode the 7G-TRONIC PLUS no longer shifts to the next-highest gear on its own, even when prompted by kick-down or upon reaching the redline speed. The driver alone makes the decisions about shifting via the steering-wheel paddle shifters.
The momentary 'M' mode offers another feature: it combines the performance of manual gear changes with automatic upshifts and downshifts. The driver has the option to shift up or down at any time with the paddle shifters. If no gear change is requested, the transmission independently reverts to the automatic shift mode after a defined period of time has passed.
The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission features a dual-turbine torsional damper with a speed-sensitive centrifugal pendulum, which minimises vibrations and enhances the occupants' perceived comfort.
AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with special axles and adjustable dampers
Agility and sportiness: in the new C 450 AMG 4MATIC the driver can experience every mile of the way why AMG has been successful in motor racing as the sports car and performance brand of Mercedes-Benz for more than four decades. The basis for this intense experience is the combination of permanent Performance all-wheel-drive system and the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension. The 3-stage damper adjustment borrows features from the top-of-the-line V8 model Mercedes-AMG C 63, and combines high agility with superior everyday practicality.
The highlight of the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension is the combination of independently developed axle components with high aluminium content and electronically controlled shock absorbers with 3-stage adjustment range. The driver of the C 450 AMG 4MATIC can select a tailor-made suspension set-up using the transmission modes or at the push of a button. The spectrum ranges from balanced long-distance comfort to maximum sportiness.
The technical features of the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension are characterised by components with sophisticated design: the four-link front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components have been optimised in terms of rigidity. A more negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle enhances lateral dynamics. Stiffening of the body shell improves steering behaviour, feedback during cornering, and tyre noise. The elastokinematics of both axles have been designed to be more rigid in general. All these measures improve the precision and agility, and boost the dynamics. In addition, the driver benefits from reduced body roll, higher lateral acceleration, better traction, and strong neutral handling at the limit. In short: the C 450 AMG 4MATIC is a very agile sports model on the one hand, while optimised pull rods and front-axle carrier mounts ensure the hallmark Mercedes long-distance comfort on the other.
Optimum traction thanks to AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive
The all-wheel drive system familiar from a number of AMG high-performance cars is also used on the C 450 AMG 4MATIC. The perfect grip during acceleration effectively prevents losses caused by slip. For thrilling driving dynamics 33 percent of the engine power is allocated to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle. The rear-biased torque split results in higher agility around the vehicle's vertical axis. Another major factor here is the sportier set-up of the ESP® with Curve Dynamic Assist. The tangible effects for sporty drivers are lateral dynamics and cornering performance increased to an above-average level.
Steering and braking system support a dynamic driving style
The electromechanical, speed-sensitive sports steering assists in finding the ideal line and enjoying a dynamic driving style. The agile handling benefits from the direct and constant AMG-specific steering ratio including optimised tuning and response. The steering forces are adapted electronically to the given vehicle speed in optimal fashion. In addition, the optimal steering characteristics are selected depending on the activated drive programme – in the "Sport" and "Sport Plus" modes to deliver a sporty steering feel for a dynamic driving style on twisty roads or to deliver a comfortable steering feel in the "Eco" or "Comfort" modes. The "Individual" programme offers an additional choice. For example, it allows combining sporty firm steering characteristics with a comfortable suspension set-up – or vice-versa.
The sports braking system of the C 450 AMG 4MATIC impresses with fade-free and effective stopping power. Standard equipment includes vented brake discs all-round measuring 360 millimetres in diameter at the front and 320 millimetres at the rear, as well as grey brake callipers with "Mercedes-Benz" lettering at the front.
Design features bear the unmistakable imprint of AMG
The fascination of motor racing in everyday life – the C 450 AMG 4MATIC incorporates this combination visually as well: The second AMG sports model is based on the AMG Line equipment package, and immediately signifies that it is part of the unique AMG family. Defining design elements are the AMG body styling, the light-alloy wheels and the special AMG badge on the front wings. They underscore the progressive nature and performance of the brand. The engine cover with red aluminium insert likewise visualises the strengths of the new twin-turbo six-cylinder engine.
The AMG body styling includes the front apron with sporty, distinctive air intakes, diamond meshes and silver chrome trim, as well as the rear apron with matt iridium silver diffuser insert. The simulated air vents on the sides are not only reminiscent of the top C 63 V8 model, they also form defined spoiler lips to improve the Cd figure. Two twin exhaust tailpipes in a special design accentuate the sporty look.
The Saloon features a new, expressive spoiler lip on the boot lid, the Estate a roof spoiler. Both additionally improve road adhesion at the rear axle. The model badges "C 450" (left) and "4MATIC" (right) are affixed to the boot lid or tailgate.
Silver chrome and high-gloss black exterior elements lend the C 450 AMG 4MATIC a sporty and expressive character. The radiator grille sports a high-gloss black louvre and chrome inserts. The diamond grille adorned with chrome pins adds special flair. Other highlights include the exterior mirror housings, waistline trim strips and window surrounds in high-gloss black.
Customers are also able to order the optional Night package: this includes dark-tinted thermal insulation glass from the B-pillars to the rear, a trim element in the front apron, the diffuser-look insert at the rear in high-gloss black and two twin exhaust tailpipes in black chrome.
5-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in black with a high-sheen finish round off the design perfectly. Size 225/45 R 18 tyres on 7.5 x 18 light-alloy wheels are fitted at the front, while the rear axle comes with 245/40 R 18 tyres on 8.5 x 18 wheels. Attractive 48.3-cm (19") light-alloy wheels in various designs are optionally available for even greater individualisation.
Interior with exclusive, sporty flair
The C 450 AMG 4MATIC fascinates with exclusivity and sportiness in the interior as well. The pleasant touch and feel of the materials and the quality of workmanship ensure an impressively classy setting and an emotional passenger experience. A high-quality start-up display welcomes the driver: the central screen in the dashboard displays AMG lettering in the style of the AMG badges on the front wings, which are specific to the sports models.
The ARTICO/DINAMICA upholstery and the instrument panel trimmed with black ARTICO man-made leather convey the sporty ambience in superior fashion. ARTICO is also used on the upper edges of the body, the armrests, the door centre panels and the centre console. Red contrasting topstitching, designo red safety belts and black floor mats with red edging add attractive highlights. The light aluminium trim with a longitudinal grain inset into the dashboard and doors effectively contrasts with the black piano lacquer look of the centre console.
Sports seats with AMG-specific seat upholstery layout and pronounced lateral support offer long-distance comfort and brace the passengers during dynamic cornering. A fitting complement to the sporty handling is the 3-spoke black nappa leather multifunction sports steering wheel with a flattened lower rim section. A loving attention to details such as red contrasting topstitching, the moulded grip area and steering-wheel shift paddles and the steering-wheel trim in silver chrome contribute to the appealing look and feel.
The instrument cluster also features the typical AMG style: this source of information comprises dials in the sporty "chequered flag" design, a 280 km/h speedometer scale, red speedometer needles and a specific typography.
Other standard equipment features of the C 450 AMG 4MATIC (selection):
- ADAPTIVE BRAKE
- ATTENTION ASSIST
- Audio 20 USB multimedia system
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
- ECO start/stop function
- ISOFIX child seat attachment system
- Sports pedals
- Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC
Additional AMG optional extras (selection):
- 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, tyres in size 225/40 R 19 on 7.5 x 19 rims (front) and 255/35 R 19 on 8.5 x 19 (rear)
- 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish, tyres in size 225/40 R 19 on 7.5 x 19 rims (front) and 255/35 R 19 on 8.5 x 19 (rear)
- Multi-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, tyres in size 225/40 R 19 on 7.5 x 19 rims (front) and 255/35 R 19 on 8.5 x 19 (rear)
- Multi-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish, tyres in size 225/40 R 19 on 7.5 x 19 rims (front) and 255/35 R 19 on 8.5 x 19 (rear)
- Performance seats for driver and passenger, with more heavily contoured seat for enhanced lateral support, integral head restraints and AMG badge in the backrests
- designo leather seat upholstery
- Lugano leather seat upholstery
- Carbon-fibre/light aluminium trim with longitudinal grain
By Jonathon Ramsey
See also: VW could look outside its own ranks for next CEO, Mercedes-AMG GT3 opts for big displacement without a turbo, Mercedes-AMG GT3 photos hit the web.
