Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4Matic Estate (2019)

Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4Matic Estate (2019)

Thanks to a hefty torque curve the new AMG sports model is agile, direct and dynamic. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission responds with superior composure or maximum spontaneity depending on the driver's preference and selected drive programme. The "Sport Plus" mode delivers thrillingly short response times: the driver's shift commands are implemented at lightning speed - the drivetrain responds spontaneously and precisely. The development engineers also take advantage of numerous hardware and software solutions of the C63 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 higher gear on its own, not even when prompted by kick-down or upon reaching the redline speed. The driver alone makes the decisions about his or her shift request 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 speed-sensitive centrifugal pendulum, which minimises vibrations and enhances the passengers' perceived comfort. Agility and sportiness: in the new C450 AMG 4Matic the driver can experience on every kilometre 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 from the top-of-the-line V8 model Mercedes-AMG C63, 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 a C450 AMG 4Matic can select his or her tailor-made suspension set-up at the push of a button. The spectrum ranges from balanced long-distance comfort to maximum sportiness.

The technical substance of the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension is characterised by components with sophisticated design: the four-link front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components were 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 were 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 C450 AMG 4Matic is a very agile sports model on one hand, while optimised pull rods and front-axle carrier mounts ensure the hallmark Mercedes long-distance comfort on the other. The all-wheel-drive system familiar from a number of AMG high-performance cars is also being used in the C450 AMG 4Matic. The perfect grip during acceleration effectively prevents losses caused by slip.

For thrilling driving dynamics 33 percent of the engine power is sent 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 in this 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. The electro-mechanical speed-sensitive sports steering supports tracking a precise line and 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. The sports braking system of the C450 AMG 4Matic impresses with fade-free and effective stopping power. Vented brake discs at all four corners measuring 360 millimetres in diameter at the front and 320 millimetres at the rear as well as grey brake callipers with "Mercedes-Benz" lettering are part of the standard equipment.