Mercedes-Benz continues to broaden its AMG performance brand appeal with the introduction of models like the Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC. This vehicle serves as a compelling entry point into the world of AMG, blending robust power with sophisticated engineering, making the signature AMG driving experience more accessible than ever. The C450 AMG 4MATIC effectively bridges the gap between the standard Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the high-performance Mercedes-AMG C63, offering a unique blend of sportiness and everyday usability.
This new AMG sports model is designed to deliver on the core promises of the AMG brand: Driving Performance. It achieves this through a potent 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 362 horsepower, coupled with the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system and advanced suspension technology derived from the formidable Mercedes-AMG C63. The result is a vehicle that not only offers exhilarating performance but also embodies the emotional and expressive character that defines AMG vehicles. Launching in the fall of 2015 for the U.S. market, the C450 AMG 4MATIC was poised to further enhance the already successful and diverse Mercedes-Benz C-Class lineup.
AMG Sports Models: A New Strategy for Performance Accessibility
The Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC is part of a strategic initiative to expand the AMG brand’s reach by introducing AMG sports models. These models are designed to offer a taste of the high-performance AMG experience to a wider audience. Visually, the C450 AMG 4MATIC immediately conveys its AMG pedigree through distinctive AMG body styling. A special AMG badge on the front fenders further signifies its place within the AMG family.
However, the AMG sports models are not just about aesthetics. They are engineered to deliver genuine sporty performance. The C450 AMG 4MATIC exemplifies this with its powerful engine, standard all-wheel drive system configured for a rear-biased torque distribution, and meticulously engineered suspension. Alongside models like the Mercedes-Benz GLE450 AMG 4MATIC Coupe, the C450 AMG 4MATIC represented an early step in this new model strategy, paving the way for more emotionally engaging AMG sports models to follow.
Tobias Moers, then Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, emphasized the strategic importance of these models, 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 AMG Driving Dynamics: Engineered for Enthusiasts
The Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC is fundamentally rooted in the robust foundation of the Mercedes-Benz C400 4MATIC, the most powerful standard production C-Class model at the time. AMG engineers undertook a comprehensive revision of numerous technical aspects to imbue the C450 AMG 4MATIC with authentic driving dynamics, specifically aiming to capture the spirit of the Mercedes-AMG C63. To achieve this, a significant number of suspension components were directly adopted from the flagship V8 model. This infusion of C63 DNA is also apparent in the engine and transmission management systems. The result is an intensely engaging driving experience characterized by agility and sportiness, hallmarks of the AMG brand, evident in every mile driven in the C450 AMG 4MATIC.
Performance Specifications of the Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2996 cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 88.0 x 82.1 mm |
| Horsepower | 362 hp @ 5500 – 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 384 lb/ft @ 2000 – 4200 rpm |
| Power-to-Displacement Ratio | 120.8 hp/liter |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration | 4.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (electronically limited) |
The heart of the C450 AMG 4MATIC is the advanced 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, a member of the Mercedes-Benz BlueDIRECT engine family. AMG engineers implemented specific enhancements, including modifications to boost pressure, to elevate the engine’s power and torque output. With 362 horsepower and 384 lb/ft of torque, this V6 engine established itself as a benchmark in its class. The vehicle’s performance figures are a testament to its sporty nature, with a 0-60 mph sprint completed in just 4.9 seconds. Furthermore, despite its potent performance, the engine also boasts impressive fuel efficiency, positioning the C450 AMG 4MATIC as a leader in its competitive segment in terms of both power and efficiency.
Customizable Driving Experience: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT
The Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC offers a versatile driving experience, adaptable to various driving preferences and conditions, thanks to the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT system. This system allows drivers to choose from multiple AMG-specific drive programs: “Eco,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport Plus,” and “Individual.” Each mode distinctively adjusts the vehicle’s suspension, steering, and powertrain characteristics. The AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch, conveniently located to the left of the touchpad, enables effortless mode selection.
The “Sport Plus” mode is specifically engineered to deliver the most intense AMG driving dynamics and amplify the emotional connection with the car. In this mode, features like partial cylinder suppression during gear changes are activated. This is achieved by momentarily and precisely retarding ignition and injection under full throttle, resulting in quicker gear shifts that are also audibly enhanced for the driver. Complementing this are the emotionally charged double-declutching function during downshifts and the distinctive “exhaust rumbling” during deceleration, all contributing to a thrilling auditory experience. The robust engine sound, a quintessential AMG trait, is a crucial element of the C450 AMG 4MATIC’s character. To achieve this, engineers developed a new sports exhaust system designed with lower back-pressure and reduced weight, further enhancing both performance and sound.
The accelerator pedal’s responsiveness is also dynamically adjusted based on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT mode. Moving from “Eco” towards “Sport Plus,” the throttle response of the twin-turbo V6 engine becomes increasingly immediate and dynamic. Even the engine start-up is tailored to the selected mode. In “Sport Plus,” starting the engine triggers a brief rev to 2000 rpm before settling back to idle, providing an immediate hint of the vehicle’s performance potential. The system remembers the last activated drive program for up to four hours, ensuring a consistent driving experience.
For maximizing fuel efficiency, the “Eco” program incorporates an ECO start/stop function and a “sailing” function. When the driver releases the accelerator within the speed range of 37 – 99 mph, the transmission clutch disengages, decoupling the engine from the powertrain. The engine speed is reduced to idle, minimizing driving resistance from engine compression and friction during deceleration.
7G-TRONIC PLUS Transmission: Performance and Refinement
The Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC is equipped with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, known for its versatility in delivering both refined composure and maximum responsiveness, depending on the driver’s demands and the selected drive program. In “Sport Plus” mode, the transmission provides exceptionally rapid response times, executing gear changes with lightning speed and precision, directly translating driver input into immediate drivetrain action. This performance is further enhanced by the incorporation of numerous hardware and software solutions derived from the Mercedes-AMG C63.
For drivers seeking ultimate control, the ‘M’ button on the center console activates manual mode, allowing full command over gear selection and harnessing the engine’s robust power across the entire rev range. In manual mode, the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission will not automatically upshift, even at redline or during kick-down, placing gear shift decisions entirely in the driver’s hands via the steering-wheel paddle shifters.
The momentary ‘M’ mode offers a blend of manual control and automatic convenience. Drivers can manually shift up or down at any time using the paddle shifters. If no manual shift input is detected, the transmission will automatically revert to automatic shifting mode after a set period. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission also incorporates a dual-turbine torsional damper with a speed-sensitive centrifugal pendulum, effectively minimizing vibrations and improving passenger comfort without compromising performance.
AMG Adaptive Sports Suspension: Agility and Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC showcases AMG’s expertise in blending motorsport-derived agility with everyday usability, a legacy built over four decades. This balance is achieved through the combination of the permanent Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system and the AMG Adaptive sports suspension. The 3-stage damper adjustment system, inspired by the Mercedes-AMG C63, allows for a broad spectrum of driving dynamics, ranging from agile handling to comfortable cruising.
The core of the AMG Adaptive sports suspension lies in its meticulously engineered components, including independently developed axle components with a high aluminum content and electronically controlled shock absorbers offering three selectable damping levels. With a simple push of a button, drivers can tailor the suspension setup of the C450 AMG 4MATIC to their preference, choosing between settings optimized for long-distance comfort or maximum sportiness.
Technically, the suspension features a four-link front axle with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints, all optimized for rigidity. Increased negative camber on both the front and multi-link rear axles enhances lateral dynamics. Stiffening of the body shell improves steering response, feedback during cornering, and reduces tire noise. The elastokinematics of both axles are designed to be inherently stiffer, collectively enhancing precision, agility, and overall driving dynamics. Drivers benefit from reduced body roll, higher lateral acceleration capabilities, improved traction, and predictable neutral handling even at the limits of performance. The C450 AMG 4MATIC effectively balances its agile sports car character with the renowned Mercedes-Benz long-distance comfort, thanks in part to optimized pull-rods and front-axle carrier mounts.
Performance 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive: Optimal Traction and Dynamics
The Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC utilizes the Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, a system also found in other high-performance AMG models. This system provides exceptional grip during acceleration, effectively minimizing wheel slip and maximizing power delivery to the road. For engaging driving dynamics, the system is configured to distribute 33 percent of the engine’s torque to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle. This rear-biased torque split enhances agility around the vehicle’s vertical axis, contributing to more responsive handling. Further enhancing the sporty driving experience is the ESP® system with Curve Dynamic Assist, which is tuned for sportier driving. The combined effect of these systems is a noticeable increase in lateral dynamics and cornering performance, placing the C450 AMG 4MATIC above average in its class for handling prowess.
Steering and Braking: Precision and Control
The electro-mechanical speed-sensitive sports steering in the Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC is designed to support both precise line tracking and a dynamic driving style. Agile handling is further enhanced by the direct and consistent AMG-specific steering ratio, along with optimized tuning and response characteristics. Steering effort is electronically adjusted based on vehicle speed, ensuring optimal feel at all speeds. Furthermore, the steering characteristics are linked to the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program. “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes deliver a firmer, sportier steering feel ideal for dynamic driving on winding roads, while “Eco” or “Comfort” modes provide a more relaxed and comfortable steering experience. The “Individual” program allows drivers to customize the steering and suspension settings independently, for example, combining sporty steering with a comfortable suspension setup, or vice versa.
The sports braking system of the C450 AMG 4MATIC provides consistent and effective stopping power with excellent fade resistance. Ventilated brake discs are fitted at all four wheels, measuring 14.2 inches in diameter at the front and 12.6 inches at the rear. Gray brake calipers featuring “Mercedes-Benz” lettering are standard equipment, visually reinforcing the vehicle’s performance capabilities.
AMG Design: Exterior and Interior Sportiness
The Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG 4MATIC visually embodies the fusion of everyday usability and motorsport inspiration. As an AMG sports model, it immediately communicates its AMG family membership through distinctive design cues. Key exterior elements include the AMG body styling, light-alloy wheels, and the special AMG badge on the front fenders. These elements collectively underscore the progressive and performance-oriented nature of the AMG brand. The engine cover features a red aluminum insert, highlighting the potency of the twin-turbo six-cylinder engine.
The AMG body styling package includes a front bumper with sporty, prominent air intakes, diamond mesh grilles, silver chrome trim, and a matte iridium silver diffuser insert in the rear bumper. The sedan model features a subtle separation edge on the trunk lid, designed to enhance rear axle grip at higher speeds.
Silver chrome and high-gloss black exterior accents further enhance the C450 AMG 4MATIC’s sporty and expressive character. The radiator grille features a high-gloss black louver with chrome inserts, and a diamond grille pattern adorned with chrome pins adds a touch of visual flair. Additional exterior highlights include black exterior mirror housings, high-gloss black waistline trim and window frames, and dual chrome-plated tailpipe trim elements.
Customers had the option to further personalize the exterior with the Night package, which added high-gloss black trim to the front bumper, a high-gloss black diffuser-look insert at the rear, and black chrome-plated dual tailpipe trim elements.
The standard wheels are 5-spoke black AMG light-alloy wheels with a high-sheen finish. The front axle is fitted with 225/45 R 18 tires on 7.5 x 18 wheels, while the rear axle uses wider 245/40 R 18 tires on 8.5 x 18 wheels. Optional 19-inch light-alloy wheels in various designs were available for increased individualization.
Inside, the C450 AMG 4MATIC cabin exudes exclusivity and sportiness. High-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship create a premium and emotionally engaging environment. MB-Tex/DINAMICA upholstery and an instrument panel trimmed with black MB-Tex man-made leather set a sporty tone. MB-Tex is also used on the upper door edges, armrests, door center panels, and the center console. Red contrasting topstitching, designo red seat belts, and black floor mats with red edging add vibrant accents. Aluminum trim pieces with a light-tone longitudinal grain on the instrument panel and doors provide contrasting textures.
Sports seats with AMG-specific upholstery design and enhanced lateral support offer both long-distance comfort and secure support during dynamic cornering. Complementing the sporty handling is a 3-spoke Nappa leather multifunction sports steering wheel with a flat bottom. Details like red contrasting topstitching, a molded grip area, steering-wheel paddle shifters, and silver chrome steering wheel trim complete the performance-oriented interior.
The instrument cluster features AMG-specific dials with a sporty “checkered flag” design, a 175 mph speedometer scale, red needles, and unique typography, further emphasizing the vehicle’s AMG heritage.
Standard Equipment Highlights of the C450 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
Optional AMG Equipment (selection):
- 19-inch light-alloy wheels in various designs and finishes
- Performance seats with enhanced lateral support and integrated head restraints
- designo leather seat upholstery
- Leather seat upholstery
- Carbon-fiber/aluminum trim with light-tone longitudinal grain
Intelligent Drive: Advanced Safety Systems
Mercedes-Benz is committed to making top-tier safety technology accessible across its model range. The C450 AMG 4MATIC embodies this commitment by incorporating numerous advanced assistance systems, many of which were also featured in the flagship S-Class. Standard safety equipment includes enhanced ATTENTION ASSIST, a fatigue detection system, and COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, designed to help mitigate or prevent rear-end collisions. These sophisticated systems enhance both driving comfort and overall safety. Building upon the already impressive passive safety performance of the previous C-Class, the C450 AMG 4MATIC further elevates safety standards in its segment.
