Don't Expect A C53 AMG For This Generation Of C-Class

By now, we're used to seeing Mercedes-AMG models coming in various performance levels, from the 45s found in the A-Class based models to the 43s and 63s found in the rest of the range. The 43 AMG variants were previously known as 450, but were essentially the same with 3.0-litre bi-turbo V6 engines pushing between 362 hp and 396 hp.

But fans of the brand were thrown into confusion when Mercedes-AMG announced the 53 AMG variants, which come with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-6 engine that produces a whopping 429 hp and 527 Nm of torque, commonly paired with the EQ boost function that temporarily adds 22 hp and 250 Nm of torque. 

During an interview with GoAuto, Mercedes-Benz stated that the 53 AMG powertrains would not be coming to the C-Class for this generation, being limited to the E-Class and larger. Part of the reasoning for this was due to the fact that the C-Class is substantially lighter and hence doesn't need more performance, although another reason could be packaging issues. The longer inline-6 engine may take a bit more space than the C-Class platform is capable of currently providing. 

For now, the only C-Class variant with the EQ Boost function is the C200, which has been downsized to a 1.5-litre engine producing 184 hp and 280 Nm of torque, and the EQ boost function adds another 13 hp to the equation. In the interim, the facelifted C43 AMG receives a healthy 390 hp and 520 Nm of torque, although our local models are still the pre-facelift variants.