Mercedes 2025 Lineup: AMG C-Class Gets More Power, E-Class Adds RWD, And SL43 Gets Faster
by AutoExpert | 17 October, 2024
Mercedes is rolling out several updates as it transitions its lineup to the 2025 model year in the U.S., with a mix of performance tweaks, tech enhancements, and some notable surprises. In the AMG C-Class lineup, both the C43 and C63 are getting significant updates. While they already made waves when introduced, the 2025 models bring even more to the table.
Both now feature the third generation of the MBUX infotainment system and a new center airbag between the front seats for added safety. The hardware upgrades include a more powerful version of the C43’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, bumping horsepower to 416, a 14-hp increase.
While torque remains the same at 369 lb-ft, the sedan shaves its 0-60 time down to 4.3 seconds from the previous 4.6 seconds. For those going all-in on performance, the C63 S will now offer optional ceramic composite brakes for better stopping power. Meanwhile, the larger E-Class sedan offers a rear-wheel drive (RWD) version of the E350 for traditionalists who prefer it over all-wheel drive (AWD). The RWD E350 uses the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine as the AWD version, producing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, matching its AWD counterpart's 0-60 time of 6.1 seconds.
The RWD model comes with a slightly lower price tag, starting at $63,600—around $2,500 less than the AWD version, but still a bit pricier than a BMW 530i. Also, the SL43 now produces 416 hp—a bump of 41 hp over the previous model—and sees torque climb by 15 lb-ft to 369 lb-ft. These upgrades help drop its 0-60 time to 4.6 seconds, making it even more thrilling to drive.
As for the CLE 63, fans will have to wait a little longer. However, reports hint that when it does arrive, it could bring back the V-8 engine. For now, Mercedes is introducing the CLE 53 Cabriolet, which comes with a smooth inline-six engine. Lastly, although Mercedes has been teasing the next-generation CLA, the current model will stick around for the 2025 model year, keeping things familiar for now.