2025 Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-AMG C-Class

Like the high-performance treatment BMW gives its M cars, Mercedes-Benz does the same kind of thing with its AMG models. In this instance, the ever-popular C-Class sedan has been transformed into a track-conquering machine, autobahn autocrat, and back-road blaster. Yet it retains the classiness and prestige for which Mercedes-Benz is renowned. There’s something special about AMG cars, and these two C-Class models are great examples.

The C 43 launched for 2023 and the C 63 S E Performance debuted last year, so both cars have the newest automotive technology. That includes things like augmented reality for the navigation system, as well as impressive safety equipment.

We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of compact luxury cars, including the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Both AMG C-Class variants gain an updated infotainment system, with a 5G module as standard. They’re also fitted with center airbags.

The AMG C 43’s horsepower increases from 402 to 416. The superpowerful AMG C 63 S E Performance now offers the option of extremely durable ceramic-composite brakes.

The popular C 43 would be our choice — energetic and engaging without overdoing it. But if you have the funds and the hankering for a C 63 S E Performance, we wouldn’t try to talk you out of it.

Looking at some alternatives, the BMW M340i xDrive is priced slightly below the C 43, while the bona fide BMW M3 begins between these two AMG models. The aging 444-hp Audi RS 5 comes in closer to the C 63.

Before buying a new AMG C-Class luxury sports sedan, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying. Resale values of the regular C-Class are comfortably above average, and AMG versions tend to be even higher. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

A 14-hp boost this year sees the 2025 AMG C 43 develop 416 equine units. It can accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph in a fleeting 4.3 seconds. To compare, the BMW M340i xDrive (not a fully-fledged M3) has 386 hp yet hits 60 mph a half-second before the C 43. The actual M3 starts with 473 hp and goes up to 523, depending on the variant.

The AMG C 63 S E Performance will do the 60-mph dash in a pyrotechnic 3.3 seconds. Although it’s a plug-in hybrid, this is no Toyota Prius. Electrical energy is paired with gasoline gusto to produce a mighty 671 hp. It makes the BMW M3 and Audi RS 5 look meek by comparison. Just on the combustion side, Mercedes-Benz coaxes 469 hp from a 2.0-liter engine — which must make it eligible for something in the Guinness Book of World Records. This model also benefits from technology developed through the company’s trophy-laden involvement in Formula 1 racing, such as an electric turbocharger that doesn’t even know the meaning of turbo lag.

Poise and precision precede cosseting and cushioning, which is only right in a high-powered, high-performance vehicle like an AMG. We wouldn’t say it’s too firm for this kind of machine, but it isn’t the oh-so-smooth ride quality of a typical Mercedes-Benz. We’re happy to experience the standard rear-wheel steering system. It helps the car corner effectively while enhancing maneuverability at low speeds.

The 2025 C-Class lineup also includes regular versions like the C 300. We review that range separately.

Fuel Economy

The AMG C 43 is rated at 22 mpg in combined city/highway driving. The C63 S E Performance achieves the equivalent of 40 mpg (MPGe) combined. Many plug-in hybrids can travel a decent distance on battery power alone, but the C 63 manages about eight miles. It’s not meant to be a fuel-sipper.

The C 43 and C 63 have a 12.3-inch digital driver information display standard. The crisp graphics can be configured to show different information, including g-forces, hybrid power flow (in the C 63), and upshift points when the transmission is in manual mode. Both models also have a fingerprint reader to upload each user’s profile.

Mercedes-Benz offers optional performance front seats with more bolstering than usual to hold occupants in place through fast corners. They come covered with MB-Tex, the company’s simulated leather (which is absolutely fine and not at all like the faux stuff of old), plus suedelike microfiber.

Regarding the interior space, these are C-Class sedans, so they’re compact. Adults of average size should be fine in either row. The cabin materials are suitably premium, as is the build quality. If it matters, a trunk volume of 11.6 cubic feet is not as good as the BMW M3’s 17 cubic feet.

Just one not-so-complimentary observation: Using the tiny touchpads on the steering wheel to carry out certain functions can be tricky. Luckily, the infotainment system can obey a great many voice commands.

Other road users will become familiar with the sight of the disappearing tail end of an AMG C-Class. It’s one of the more impressive views, thanks to quad-pipe exhaust systems. Those and the grilles with vertical slats are among the stronger visual cues marking these cars as AMG models. The general C-Class look is relatively sleek and well-proportioned. And this may just be our opinion, but the C 43 and C 63 look fantastic in black.

11.9-inch touchscreen
This tablet-like display conveys various kinds of information like navigation, cabin temperature, and phone functions — all in crisp detail. It controls an excellent infotainment system that comes with wireless charging and wireless phone integration as standard.

All-wheel drive
All-wheel drive is great in tricky conditions and helps to get the power down in the dry. It is standard in both 2025 AMG C-Class variants.

Driver Assistance package
In an ideal world, we’d like this included as standard. Nevertheless, spending the extra $1,950 to gain features like adaptive cruise control, Active Blind Spot Assist, and evasive steering assistance is a smart investment.

Burmester audio
This is yet another of the great pleasures to be had when driving a Mercedes-AMG model, and it is among the best car surround-sound systems we’ve heard. A 15-speaker, 710-watt setup is optional in the C 43 and standard in the C 63.

Augmented video
Sometimes, navigation instructions aren’t as clear as we would like when there’s only a split-second to make a move. This optional feature superimposes arrows on the screen (or head-up display) to make life easier. We think it looks cool, too.

Ceramic-composite brakes
This is a new and pricy option for the C 63 S E Performance, but it is worth considering if you’re putting track days into your calendar. These will withstand plenty of punishment without fading, wearing, or warping.

AMG engines are traditionally assembled by hand and fitted with a signed plaque when complete, following the “one technician, one engine” approach.

The handcrafted engine in the Mercedes-AMG C 43 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder unit tuned to produce an impressive 416 hp (up from last year’s 402) and 369 lb-ft of torque.

The AMG C 63 S E Performance takes that engine and amps it up to 469 hp and 402 lb-ft. Not content with such an achievement, Mercedes-Benz throws in an electric motor for a colossal total of 671 hp and 752 lb-ft. In a compact sedan, remember.

Both cars employ an AMG-tuned 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive as standard.

4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty

The new-vehicle warranty Mercedes-Benz offers lasts four years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first. This applies to the drivetrain as well. Most European luxury car companies have these same terms. Mercedes-Benz doesn’t offer any free scheduled maintenance.

Safety Ratings

This latest generation of C-Class (on which these AMG cars are based) has been named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the agency’s second-highest accolade. Standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic brake drying.