Mercedes-Benz, renowned for its luxury and performance, expanded its AMG lineup with the introduction of the 2016 C450 AMG 4MATIC. This model served as a compelling entry point into the world of AMG, bridging the gap between the standard C-Class and the high-performance Mercedes-AMG C63. The C450 AMG 4MATIC delivered a potent combination of a 362-horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, a permanent Performance all-wheel-drive system, and advanced suspension technology derived from the C63, offering thrilling driving dynamics and the unmistakable emotional character of the AMG brand. Launching in the U.S. market in the fall of 2015, the C450 AMG 4MATIC further enriched the already extensive and highly desirable C-Class range.
The AMG sports models, including the 2016 C450 AMG 4MATIC, are immediately recognizable by their distinctive AMG body styling. These visual cues leave no doubt about their lineage within the Mercedes-AMG family. Further emphasizing this new model strategy was the inclusion of a special AMG badge on the front fenders. From an engineering perspective, the AMG sports models lived up to their sporty aesthetic, boasting powerful engines, standard all-wheel drive with a rear-biased torque distribution, and sophisticated suspension systems.
Alongside the Mercedes-Benz GLE450 AMG 4MATIC Coupe, the C450 AMG 4MATIC marked the second phase of this innovative model initiative. Mercedes-AMG GmbH’s Chairman of the Board of Management, Tobias Moers, highlighted the significance of the C450 AMG, stating, “With the C450 AMG we present the second sporty and emotionally expressive vehicle in our product line. It combines the power of a strong twin- turbo V6 engine with a high level of emotional expressiveness, and avails itself of the technical DNA of the new C63. The new sports models represent a convincing proposition for our customers: sports car technology and motor racing fascination become more attainable and in the process appeal to a broader customer base.”
Authentic Driving Dynamics Rooted in AMG DNA
The 2016 C450 AMG 4MATIC was built upon the foundation of the most powerful production C-Class model at the time, the C400 4MATIC. However, AMG engineers meticulously refined numerous technical aspects to create the new AMG sports model. Their primary goal was to achieve authentic driving dynamics closely aligned with the renowned Mercedes-AMG C63. To accomplish this, a significant number of suspension components were adopted directly from the top-tier V8 model. The C63’s DNA was also evident in the engine and transmission management, resulting in an intensely agile and sporty driving experience in the C450 AMG 4MATIC.
The heart of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC is its advanced 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, a member of the BlueDIRECT engine family from Mercedes-Benz. AMG engineers further enhanced its performance through modifications such as increased boost pressure, resulting in impressive power and torque figures. Producing 362 horsepower and 384 lb/ft of torque, this V6 engine established a new benchmark in its class. This translated directly to compelling vehicle performance, with the C450 AMG 4MATIC accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, underscoring its sporty nature. Furthermore, this high-performance V6 engine also maintained excellent fuel efficiency, positioning it as a leader in its competitive segment.
| Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC | |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2996 cc |
| Bore x stroke | 88.0 x 82.1 mm |
| Output | 362 hp at 5500 – 6000 rpm |
| Peak torque | 384 lb/ft at 2000 – 4200 rpm |
| Power-to-displacement ratio | 120.8 hp |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 4.9 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph ** |
**electronically limited
Supreme or Dynamic: The Power is Yours with AMG DYNAMIC SELECT
The 2016 C450 AMG 4MATIC offered drivers a versatile driving experience, ranging from comfortable cruising to dynamic performance, thanks to the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT system. With a robust torque curve, the AMG sports model felt agile, direct, and responsive. Drivers could tailor the C450 AMG 4MATIC’s character to their preferences using various AMG-specific drive programs: “Eco,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport Plus,” and “Individual.” These modes adjusted the suspension, steering, and powertrain settings, selectable through the conveniently located AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch near the touchpad.
The “Sport Plus” program truly unleashed hallmark AMG dynamics, enhancing the emotional driving experience. It incorporated features like partial cylinder suppression during gear changes, achieved by momentarily retarding ignition and injection under full throttle, resulting in faster gear shifts and an audible thrill for the driver. Adding to the auditory excitement were the emotional double-declutching function during downshifts and the distinctive “exhaust rumbling” in overrun mode. The throaty engine sound, a signature AMG trait, played a pivotal role in the most powerful V6 model. To achieve this, engineers developed a new sports exhaust system with reduced back-pressure and weight.
The accelerator pedal setup also contributed to the driving sensation. As drivers shifted from “Eco” towards “Sport Plus” in the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT settings, the throttle response of the twin-turbo V6 engine became progressively more spontaneous and dynamic. Even engine starts were designed to be emotionally engaging. In “Sport Plus” mode, starting the engine initiated a brief rev to 2000 rpm before settling back to idle, providing an immediate hint of the car’s performance capabilities. The chosen drive program’s setting, and its associated engine sound at start-up, remained active for up to four hours.
For enhanced fuel efficiency, the “Eco” program integrated an ECO start/stop function and a “sailing” function. When the driver released the accelerator between 37 and 99 mph, the transmission clutch disengaged, decoupling the engine from the powertrain. The electronics then reduced the engine speed to idle, minimizing driving resistance from compression and frictional forces during overrun.
7G-TRONIC PLUS Automatic Transmission: Responsive and Versatile
The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission in the 2016 C450 AMG 4MATIC adapted to the driver’s preferences and selected drive program, offering both refined composure and rapid responsiveness. The “Sport Plus” mode delivered exceptionally short response times, with gear changes executed almost instantaneously, reacting precisely to driver input. AMG engineers incorporated hardware and software solutions from the C63 to achieve this level of performance. The ‘M’ button on the center console allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s pulling power across its entire rev range. In manual transmission mode, the 7G-TRONIC PLUS would not automatically upshift, even at kick-down or redline, putting gear selection entirely in the driver’s hands via the steering-wheel paddle shifters.
The momentary ‘M’ mode provided a unique feature, blending manual gear change performance with automatic up and downshifts. Drivers could use the paddle shifters for manual gear changes at any time. If no manual shift was requested, the transmission would revert to automatic mode after a set period. Further enhancing refinement, the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission included a dual-turbine torsional damper with a speed-sensitive centrifugal pendulum, effectively minimizing vibrations and improving passenger comfort.
AMG Adaptive Sports Suspension: Agility and Composure
Agility and sportiness were central to the 2016 C450 AMG 4MATIC’s driving experience, embodying AMG’s four-decade legacy in motorsports and performance vehicles. This intense experience was built upon the foundation of the permanent Performance all-wheel-drive system and the AMG Adaptive sports suspension. The 3-stage damper adjustment system, borrowed from the Mercedes-AMG C63, balanced exceptional agility with practical everyday usability.
The core of the AMG Adaptive sports suspension lay in its combination of specially developed axle components with significant aluminum content and electronically controlled shock absorbers offering 3-stage adjustability. C450 AMG 4MATIC drivers could customize the suspension setup at the touch of a button, choosing between balanced long-distance comfort and maximum sportiness. Technically, the suspension featured a four-link front axle with specialized steering knuckles and load-bearing joints, optimized for rigidity. Increased negative camber on both front and rear multi-link axles enhanced lateral dynamics. Stiffening of the body shell improved steering response, feedback during cornering, and reduced tire noise. The elastokinematics of both axles were engineered to be more rigid overall, enhancing precision, agility, and dynamics. Drivers benefited from reduced body roll, higher lateral acceleration, improved traction, and neutral handling at the limit. The C450 AMG 4MATIC achieved a balance between agile sports model characteristics and the renowned Mercedes long-distance comfort, thanks to optimized pull-rods and front-axle carrier mounts.
Optimal Traction with Performance 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive
The 2016 C450 AMG 4MATIC utilized the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, familiar from other AMG high-performance models. This system provided exceptional grip during acceleration, effectively preventing wheel slip. For thrilling driving dynamics, the system distributed 33 percent of engine power to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle, creating a rear-biased torque split that enhanced agility around the vehicle’s vertical axis. Complementing this was the sportier setup of the ESP® with Curve Dynamic Assist, resulting in noticeably improved lateral dynamics and cornering performance for sporty drivers.
Steering and Braking Systems Tuned for Dynamic Driving
The electro-mechanical speed-sensitive sports steering in the C450 AMG 4MATIC supported precise line tracking and a dynamic driving style. Agile handling was enhanced by the direct and consistent AMG-specific steering ratio, along with optimized tuning and response. Steering force was electronically adjusted based on vehicle speed. Furthermore, steering characteristics adapted to the selected drive program – with “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes providing a sporty steering feel for dynamic driving on winding roads, while “Eco” or “Comfort” modes offered a more comfortable feel. The “Individual” program allowed for customization, enabling drivers to combine sporty steering with a comfortable suspension setup, or vice versa.
The sports braking system of the C450 AMG 4MATIC delivered reliable and effective stopping power with excellent fade resistance. Ventilated brake discs on all four wheels, measuring 14.2 inches at the front and 12.6 inches at the rear, along with gray brake calipers featuring “Mercedes-Benz” lettering, were standard equipment.
Design Elements Reflecting Typical AMG Signature
The 2016 C450 AMG 4MATIC visually communicated its racing-inspired character. As the second AMG sports model, it clearly belonged to the AMG family. Dominant design elements included AMG body styling, light-alloy wheels, and the special AMG badge on the front fenders, underscoring the brand’s progressive nature and performance. A red aluminum insert on the engine cover highlighted the power of the new twin-turbo six-cylinder engine.
The AMG body styling incorporated a front bumper with sporty air intakes, diamond meshes, silver chrome trim, and a matte iridium silver diffuser insert in the rear bumper. The sedan version featured a separation edge on the trunk lid to enhance rear axle grip. Silver chrome and high-gloss black exterior elements contributed to the C450 AMG 4MATIC’s sporty and expressive character. The radiator grille featured a high-gloss black louver and chrome inserts, with a diamond grille adorned with chrome pins. Additional visual highlights included black exterior mirror housings, high-gloss black waistline trim, window frames, and dual chrome-plated tailpipe trim elements. The optional Night package further enhanced the look with high-gloss black front bumper trim, a high-gloss black diffuser-look rear insert, and black chrome-plated dual tailpipe trim. Completing the design were 5-spoke black AMG light-alloy wheels with a high-sheen finish.
Interior with Exclusive Sporty Flair
The interior of the 2016 C450 AMG 4MATIC exuded exclusivity and sportiness. High-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship created a premium and emotionally engaging cabin. MB-Tex/DINAMICA upholstery and an instrument panel trimmed with black MB-Tex man-made leather established a sporty ambiance. MB-Tex was also used on the upper body edges, armrests, door center panels, and center console. Red contrasting topstitching, designo red safety belts, and black floor mats with red edging added striking accents. Aluminum trim pieces with a light-tone longitudinal grain provided effective contrasts on the instrument panel and doors.
Sports seats with AMG-specific upholstery and pronounced lateral support offered both long-distance comfort and secure support during dynamic cornering. Complementing the sporty handling was a 3-spoke Nappa leather multifunction sports steering wheel with a flat bottom, featuring red contrasting topstitching, molded grip areas, steering-wheel paddle shifters, and silver chrome trim. The instrument cluster, in typical AMG style, featured dials with a sporty “checkered flag” design, a 175 mph speedometer scale, red needles, and specific typography.
Standard equipment highlights of the C450 AMG 4MATIC included ADAPTIVE BRAKE, ATTENTION ASSIST, Audio 20 USB multimedia system, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, ECO start/stop function, ISOFIX child seat attachments, and sports pedals. Available AMG optional extras included various 19-inch light-alloy wheel designs, Performance seats, designo leather upholstery, leather seat upholstery, and carbon-fiber/aluminum trim.
Intelligent Drive: Top-Caliber Safety
Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to making top-class safety accessible was fully realized in the 2016 C450 AMG 4MATIC. It incorporated numerous advanced assistance systems, many shared with the flagship S-Class. Standard features included the enhanced ATTENTION ASSIST fatigue detection system and COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, designed to help prevent rear-end collisions. These sophisticated systems enhanced both driving comfort and safety. Building upon the already excellent passive safety performance of the previous C-Class, the new model set even higher standards in safety.
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC successfully broadened the appeal of AMG performance, delivering an engaging and dynamic driving experience with distinctive AMG styling and technology, making it an attractive option for a wider range of enthusiasts.
