Driven: 2023 Mercedes-AMG C43 Proves That Less Is More

The latest C-Class is a visually pleasant car, but we wouldn’t say it stands out. It looks a bit like a baby S-Class, which is not an insult by any stretch of the imagination. The picture gets bland given that this car’s color palette includes Black, Obsidian Black, Polar White, Moonlight White, Graphite Grey, Selenite Grey, Selenite Grey Magno (matte), Mojave Silver, Cirrus Silver, and Starling Blue. Aside from the bluer, that’s a monotone rainbow if we’ve ever seen one.

AMG-specific touches include a signature Panamericana grille, sportier rear diffuser, and AMG badging. 18-inch wheels come standard, but 19- and 20-inch wheels are optional and boost the top speed from 155 to 165 mph. Our car rode on the most expensive 20s, which add $1,650 to the price tag. Buyers can choose between four AMG exterior packages for a sportier look, with the AMG Carbon Fiber Package and the AMG Performance Studio Package adding various bits and pieces for between $750 and $2,250 extra.