2017 Mercedes-AMG E 43 4Matic first view

In the absence of a V8-powered model (for now), the quickest member of the new W213 E-Class range is going to be the just-announced Mercedes-AMG E 43 4Matic.

It features a 3.0 litre V6 twin-turbo engine that's mated to a five-mode, nine-speed, 9G-Tronic automatic transmission and a rear-biased 4Matic all-wheel drive system.

Mercedes-AMG E 43 4Matic (2017) Front

With 395 bhp (295 kW / 401 PS) and 520 Nm (383 lb/ft) of peak torque, the result is plenty of pace. Just 4.6 seconds are needed for the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint, while the car's top speed is electronically-limited to 155 mph (250 km/h).

Coincidentally, the BMW 550i M Sport records identical benchmark performance figures, but this rear-wheel drive rival needs a 442 bhp (330 kW / 449 PS) 4.4 litre twin-turbo V8 to do so.

Having a larger-capacity engine affects efficiency, though: the BMW achieves 32.8 mpg (8.6 l/100km) on the combined cycle with 199 g/km of carbon dioxide emissions, which is slightly worse than the Mercedes-AMG's 34.1 mpg (8.3 l/100km) and 189 g/km.

An upgraded chassis is a key E 43 4Matic element. Based around an Air Body Control air suspension set-up, it also boasts strengthened components, more negative camber on both axles and three-mode adaptive damping.

Redesigned bumpers with larger front air intakes, 19” five-spoke alloy wheels and a boot lid spoiler offer some visual differentiation. Inside, there are front sports seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, unique instruments, a black headlining and – somewhat incongruously – boy-racerish red seatbelts.

The Mercedes-AMG E 43 4Matic is due to appear in public for the first time at this month's New York International Auto Show. Deliveries are then expected to begin in September.

Mercedes-AMG E 43 4Matic (2017) InteriorMercedes-AMG E 43 4Matic (2017) Rear Side

Mercedes-AMG E 43 4Matic (2017) Front SideMercedes-AMG E 43 4Matic (2017) Dashboard

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