Latest SQ5 with 354PS V6 TFSI joins UK Audi range following its recent world debut.

Latest SQ5 with 354PS V6 TFSI joins UK Audi range following its recent world debut at the NAIAS in Detroit

• All-new SQ5 TFSI now available to order priced from £51,200 OTR – first UK deliveries expected in June
• Newly adopted 3.0 TFSI petrol engine with 354PS and 500Nm (368.8 lb-ft), 0 to 62mph in 5.4 seconds
• S-specific styling enhancements and a high level of standard equipment, including 'S' suspension with electronic damper control
• MMI Navigation Plus, Audi connect, electric seats, Fine Nappa leather, 20-inch alloy wheels and Audi drive select as standard
• Matrix LED lights, virtual cockpit, head-up display and predictive efficiency assistant among the key options

Part high-achieving performance car,  part resilient and family-ready SUV – the Audi SQ5 is already a firm UK favourite on the strength of its impressively well-rounded skillset, and from this week its all-new successor retakes its rightful place at the head of the Q5 range offering an even more concentrated dose of that successful formula. 

Based around a new and highly sophisticated powertrain incorporating TFSI petrol power for the first time, and enhanced by the many design and technology advances from which the entire Q5 range has benefited, the SQ5 returns with an OTR price of £51,200, and is expected with its first UK customers in June.

Charged with propelling 35kg less weight thanks in part to sophisticated new body architecture, the more powerful 354PS TFSI promises 5.4-second 0-62mph pace in the quattro all-wheel-driven figurehead without ruling out real world fuel efficiency.

The new 3.0-litre TFSI is the successor to the unit first used by the S4 and S5 performance flagships, and replaces its supercharger with a new twin-scroll turbocharger located within the 90-degree V of the cylinder banks that delivers even keener and stronger response. This is evident not only in the healthy 354PS power peak but also in the 500Nm of torque which remains available from 1,370rpm right through to 4,500rpm.  

Thanks to super-efficient new Audi-developed combustion technology based on the so-called ‘B cycle’ process the advanced new six-cylinder is also able to deliver up to 34mpg according to the NEDC test, equating to CO₂output of 189 grams per km with the standard 20-inch ‘5 twin-spoke star’ alloy wheels on board. The engine’s 14kg weight advantage over its predecessor also works in favour of overall efficiency.

An eight-speed tiptronic transmission complements the powerful yet impressively linear delivery of the V6 with inherently smooth yet fittingly sporting shifts. The lower gears feature short ratios, while the upper gears are long in the interest of fuel conservation. 

If required the transmission can freewheel as soon as the driver lifts off the accelerator at speeds of between 34mph and 99mph for even greater fuel efficiency.

Being both a Q5 and a member of the Audi ‘S’ series, the SQ5 is naturally quattro all-wheel-drive-equipped. 

During normal driving, the system distributes power with a slight rear-axle bias, but when necessary it can divert the majority to whichever axle has better traction. It is backed up by wheel-selective torque control, which slightly brakes the inside wheels during faster cornering to tuck the SQ5 into the bend, and then helps to prolong handling neutrality and precision once the car is committed.

For even greater adjustability and agility a sport differential is also available on the options list. It actively distributes torque between the rear wheels via two superposition stages, helping to literally push the car into bends and to contain understeer. Its management is integrated into the Audi drive select control system.

Also controllable via Audi drive select is the electronically regulated ‘S’ suspension, using an adaptive CDC damping (continuous damping control) setup. 

This system allows the driver to adapt damper response to suit the driving situation, offering a more compliant setting for everyday cruising and a tauter and more dynamic mode for faster, more challenging driving.

Body and exterior design

Even when stationary, an array of details underlines the dynamic characteristics of the new Audi SQ5. The bumpers up front and in the rear are complemented by more strongly contoured, S-specific air inlets and a diffuser with a honeycomb grille. 

Another S-specific feature is the radiator grille with double aluminium slats and contrasting trim elements in matt twilight grey. The S logo with red rhombus is used in numerous locations to set additional accents.

LED technology is standard for all lighting functions, including the Audi Beam which projects the four rings logo onto the floor using LEDs when the doors are opened. Illuminated door sills also bear exclusive S logos. High beam assist is also factory fitted. The dynamic indicators ensure a high recognition factor.

Matrix LED headlights are optionally available, featuring a special Q signature and adding dynamic indicators at the front.  In profile, aluminium-look exterior mirrors and door trim strips finished in the body colour underscore the model’s exclusivity. The rear bumper houses the S-specific twin exhaust tailpipes of the dual-branch exhaust system and an aluminium diffuser clasp.

Interior

Contrasting stitching on the leather steering wheel and sport seats create a dynamic and elegant ambiance. The S sport seats are upholstered in fine Nappa leather with diamond stitching and are electrically adjustable. Matt brushed aluminium inlays are standard and an exclusive carbon inlay is optionally available. 

Aluminium-look shift paddles enable the driver to quickly shift the tiptronic’s gears. The pedals and footrest are finished in stainless steel.

The standard rear seat bench plus in the new Audi SQ5 is split into three segments. Depending on the position of the rear seat bench, the luggage compartment has a standard capacity of 500 to 610 litres. When the rear bench is folded down, this volume grows to 1,550 litres.

Infotainment and Audi connect

As standard, the SQ5 TFSI is fitted with the top-of-the-line MMI navigation plus infotainment system with MMI all-in-touch and an 8.3-inch display. The system recognises handwritten input as well as touch gestures familiar from consumer electronics, such as zoom. 

It also provides haptic feedback to input. One element is Audi connect, which connects the new SQ5 to the internet via LTE. 

Audi connect enables convenient roaming in Europe for many connected infotainment services with its permanently installed SIM card – the Audi connect SIM with a flat data rate. A 36-month subscription is included as standard.

With the package “Audi connect safety & Service”, customers receive help automatically or at the push of a button via the emergency call and online roadside assistance services in the event of an accident or breakdown.

Furthermore, users can easily lock and unlock the SQ5 via the MMI connect app on their smartphones. Customers can also check vehicle’s status and use additional services such as Car Finder and information about the next service appointments or warning messages.

The MMI operating logic is based on the flat hierarchies used in today’s smartphones, and it offers such features as intelligent free-text search. The natural-language voice control function also recognises inputs from everyday speech.

Serving as an additional third operating level in the new Audi SQ5 is the leather-covered multifunction steering wheel. Audi can deliver a newly developed head-up display as an option. It projects relevant information onto the windshield – including from driver assistance systems – as symbols and numbers that can be perceived quickly.

One highlight of the display and control concept is the optional Audi virtual cockpit. It displays all key information in razor-sharp graphics on its 12.3-inch monitor. Views available to the driver include an S-specific sport mode centred around the rev counter.

The Audi phone box, another optional feature, connects the smartphone to the on-board antenna by near-field coupling and simultaneously charges it inductively using the Qi standard. 

The Bang & Olufsen Sound System with new 3D sound is available for hi-fi fans. The Audi smartphone interface brings Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into the car.

Driver assistance systems

The new Audi SQ5 also picks up the driver assistance systems from the broad, high-tech portfolio of the Audi Q5.

The predictive efficiency assistant provides specific driving tips to helps the driver save fuel. Adaptive cruise control (ACC) including traffic jam assist can handle some of the steering work in slow-moving traffic. Audi active lane assist makes it easier to stay in lane. Distance warning alerts the driver when the distance to a vehicle drops below a safe distance.

Cross traffic assist rear, the exit warning system, collision avoidance assist and turn assist are other new features for safety in everyday traffic. 

The same is true for the pre-sense systems: Audi pre sense city is standard. The system warns the driver about pedestrians and vehicles, and initiates automatic emergency braking within system limits. Park assist, the camera-based recognition of traffic signs and hill descent control round out the features.

Geneva is lucky enough to debut the new Audi RS3 Sportback quattro, Thee Storming car !

Even more powerful and well connected five-door RS regains its place in the range alongside the recently launched RS 3 Saloon

• 400 PS five-cylinder engine delivers a concentrated dose of driving pleasure
• Wider track and pronounced sills are hallmarks of the RS design
• World premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show
• UK ordering possible from the summer, first deliveries later in 2017

The RS 3 Sportback - the original entry point to Audi RS ownership - has taken a back seat recently to allow the new RS 3 Saloon its share of the limelight, but at next month’s Geneva Motor Show the muscle-bound five-door will make its comeback emboldened by the latest 400PS five-cylinder TFSI engine and a raft of design and connectivity upgrades. 

Following its world public debut in Switzerland on Tuesday March 7 the Audi compact segment spearhead will become available to order in the UK in the summer and will touch down here towards the end of the year.

“The Audi RS 3 Sportback offers our customers an attractive introduction to the RS world,” said Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH. 

“Since 2011 the sporty compact model has proved itself extremely successful on the market. And with the new five-cylinder engine, the Audi RS 3 Sportback is at the head of its class and continuing that strong track record.”

From 0 to 62mph in 4.1 seconds

Behind the impressive performance of the Audi RS 3 Sportback is the world’s most powerful production five-cylinder engine – the 2.5 TFSI. It delivers 400PS – 33PS more than its predecessor – and is 26 kilograms (57.3 lb) lighter thanks to its aluminium crankcase, among other features. 

Its maximum torque of 480 Nm (354.0 lb-ft) is available from just 1,700 rpm and remains at the driver’s disposal right through to 5,850 rpm.

This wide tract of torque facilitates an exhilarating 4.1-second 0-62mph sprint time, the effect of which is heightened by the five-cylinder unit’s unmistakably full-bodied and characterful sound. 

Top speed is limited to 155mph, but if the optional dynamic package plus is specified a de-restriction to 174mph is among the extra features it brings.

For better mixture preparation, the new 2.5 TFSI engine employs dual injection into the intake manifold and into the combustion chambers. On the exhaust side, the Audi valvelift system controls the duration of valve opening depending on the throttle and engine speed – for moderate fuel consumption at low and partial load as well as optimal throttle response and a high level of tractive power at full load. 

In the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) test the RS 3 Sportback returns 34.0mpg – a creditable figure considering its performance capabilities which equates to 189 grams of CO₂ per kilometre.

quattro drive with variable distribution of power

The proven channels for the mighty engine’s output are the S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive based on an electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch which distributes the drive torque variably between the axles. 

The share it allocates to the rear axle automatically varies depending on speed and cornering forces, but its bias can also be influenced by the driver using the standard Audi drive select system, which can also influence the response of the steering, transmission, engine management, adjustable exhaust flaps and optional RS sport suspension with adaptive damper control. 

It offers three modes - comfort, auto and dynamic. Cornering attitude is also further enhanced by the Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC) with wheel-selective torque control and the sport mode specially tuned for the RS.

Wider track and sporty suspension setup

With its standard progressive steering and sophisticated multi-link suspension with wider front track positioning the stocky body 25mm lower than the A3, the RS 3 Sportback is set up to deliver compelling grip and adjustability with extraordinary poise. 19-inch alloy wheels framing 310-millimetre brake discs front and rear are factory fitted, and as an alternative customers will be able to choose carbon-fibre ceramic front discs.

Distinctive RS design

Externally, the flared front arches that evocatively link the RS 3 Sportback with its Eighties quattro coupé forebears continue to lend just the right air of power and purpose to the latest car, while subtle styling revisions based on the recent updates made across the A3 range also lift its look. The Singleframe grille with its gloss black honeycomb mesh and the large air inlets and angular sill trims which flank it are now also complemented by a redesigned blade in the bumper which serves to make the car appear even more broad-shouldered. At its ends it forms narrow, upright funnels. LED headlights with their distinctive lighting signature are standard, and matrix LED headlights are available from the options list. At the rear an elongated RS roof edge spoiler, a diffuser insert and the RS exhaust system’s large oval tailpipes add further emphasis to the high performance hatchback’s foursquare stance.

Lap timer, boost pressure indicator and special RS screen

In the equally focused cabin the two circular instrument dials with their black faces, white scales and red needles sit either side of a driver information system that includes a boost pressure indicator, an oil thermometer and a lap timer. In the latest car this configuration can now be replaced by the fully digital Audi virtual cockpit which is newly available. A special RS screen shifts the tachometer to the centre, displaying on either side the readings for torque, g‑forces and tyre pressure. When the S tronic transmission is operating in manual mode, a scale with a colour background prompts the driver to use the steering wheel paddle or selector lever to upshift when approaching maximum rpm.

Sport seats with RS seatback emblems in black fine Nappa leather are standard, and for even greater support RS sport seats with more contoured profiles and integrated head restraints for the driver and front passenger are available as options. The RS sport leather steering wheel is flat-bottomed and features buttons for operating the infotainment system. The main control element is the rotary/push-button control on the console of the centre tunnel. A touchpad can be integrated in its surface, enabling the driver to scroll, zoom and enter text. Also included is a free text search feature that automatically completes the user’s input after just a few letters have been entered. The voice control can process user questions and commands formulated in everyday language.

Online with Audi connect

When it comes to infotainment, the RS 3 Sportback is even more versatile than before. The Audi Smartphone Interface is now standard, enabling users to access selected apps on their handsets from the car’s onboard monitor via Apple Car Play and Android Auto, and an LTE module brings the Audi connect services on board, including navigation with Google Earth and Google Street View, as well as information on fuel prices, weather, travel and traffic. The Audi MMI connect app lets users transfer their smartphone calendars into the MMI system. Drivers can also send destinations from Google Maps and special destinations to the navigation system, and also stream music from the internet. In addition, the navigation system includes a Wi-Fi hotspot that enables passengers to connect their mobile devices to the internet. 

Other highlights include the Audi phone box for wireless connection to the car’s onboard antenna and inductive charging of handsets equipped to the QI standard, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 705 watts of power, and many driver assistance systems. In slow-moving traffic up to 40mph, for example, the traffic jam assist keeps the car at a safe distance from the vehicle in front and can briefly take over the steering. Also new in the Audi RS 3 Sportback are the emergency assist, which automatically stops the car if required, and cross traffic assist rear. The latter system looks out for crossing vehicles when the driver is pulling out of a parking space.

Market launch and prices

Orders for the RS 3 Sportback and the RS 3 Saloon will be accepted in the UK from the summer, and UK pricing for both variants will be confirmed closer to that point.

GOODWOOD - Alfa Romeo announces pricing and Specification for the blistering Giulia Quadrifoglio.

• All-new Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio makes UK debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed
• High standard specification includes 19-inch alloy wheels, an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, active aerodynamics, active suspension, bi-xenon headlamps, sports seats and Alfa Romeo’s latest Uconnect 3D Nav infotainment system
• Powered by an all-new 2.9-litre Bi-Turbo V6 engine, the Giulia Quadrifoglio produces a blistering 510hp and 600Nm of torque
• The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio will be available to order shortly with prices starting at £59,000 OTR  

UK pricing for the all-new Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio has been announced at a press conference today, June 23, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. 

Powered by a new 510hp, 600Nm Bi-Turbo V6 petrol engine, with an eight-speed paddle shift automatic transmission as standard, the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is capable of sprinting to 62mph in just 3.9* seconds and on to a top speed of more than 190mph*^ while still being cable of up to 49mpg* on the official extra-urban fuel efficiency cycle, with low emissions of 189g/km*.  

Built around Alfa Romeo’s all-new rear-wheel drive architecture, the Giulia sports short overhangs, a long bonnet, muscular haunches and the longest wheelbase in its segment. 

Careful management of weights and materials has resulted in perfect 50/50 weight distribution across its axles, while the sophisticated four-arm Alfa™ Link rear suspension (with an Alfa Romeo-patented solution for toe adjustment) and new double-wishbone front set up have been specifically tuned to maximise its dynamic abilities and enhance driving comfort.

Also débuting on the Giulia is a new semi-virtual steering axis which optimises the filtering effect and guarantees rapid, accurate steering by keeping a constant caster trail in corners, while the advanced Alfa™ Torque Vectoring double-clutch rear differential system precisely controls the torque delivery to each rear wheel to improve traction in low grip conditions without having to run up against an invasive stability control system.

To obtain an excellent weight-to-power ratio and outstanding torsional rigidity, the new Giulia utilises an array of high-strength and ultra-lightweight materials including, for example, carbon fibre for the driveshaft, aluminium composite and plastic for the rear crossmember and aluminium for the doors, wings, engines (petrol and diesel), brakes and suspensions - including the front suspension domes and front and rear subframes.

The Giulia Quadrifoglio takes this attention to detail a stage further with its carbon fibre bonnet, roof, front splitter, rear spoiler and body inserts, as well as aluminium for the doors and wings. 

The braking system has been tweaked using aluminium elements, while carbon ceramic brake discs and front seats with a carbon fibre structural frame can also be specified as options.

Pricing for Alfa Romeo’s advanced new super saloon will start at £59,000 OTR with an outstanding standard specification including 19-inch Quadrifoglio alloy wheels; sports front bumper with Alfa™ Active Aero; sports rear bumper with functional diffuser; sports exhaust with four outlets; Alfa™ Active Suspension and bi-xenon headlamps with LED DRL. 

Safety specification includes advanced Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Monitoring (DSM), Alfa Romeo’s new Integrated Braking System (IBS), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and a rear-view camera with guide lines.

Interior highlights include special sports seats trimmed in leather and Alcantara with front seat heaters, steering-column mounted paddle shifters, a seven-inch TFT instrument cluster, Alfa Romeo’s new Uconnect™ 3D Nav 8.8-inch infotainment system, DAB radio, dual-zone climate control, automatic lights and wipers and cruise control with speed limiter.

The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio will be available to order shortly with details of the rest of the Alfa Romeo Giulia range to be announced closer to the vehicle's on sale date.

*Figures for Quadrifoglio automatic are subject to type-approval – figures may change

^Where legally permitted

The All-New Mercedes-Benz E43 AMG saloon, a bonkers car that will eat you alive if you push it hard.

Hot on the heels of the world premiere for the new Mercedes‑Benz E-Class, its first high-performance variant is on the way from Mercedes-AMG. 

The E 43 4MATIC with the 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine on board will represent the most powerful variant of the executive saloon when it is introduced in September 2016. With two new turbochargers and corresponding software applications, the supercharged six-cylinder engine delivers an output of 295 kW (401 hp). 

As ever, the standard-specification AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive combines optimum traction with high agility on the E 43, thanks to rear-biased torque distribution with a front-to-rear ratio of 31:69 percent. 

The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with shorter shift times, the retuned sports suspension based on the AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension and the more direct steering ratio also provide for signature AMG Driving Performance.

"The new E 43 4MATIC offers impressive driving dynamics coupled with cutting-edge efficiency. Twin turbocharging, features adopted from motorsport and the characteristic AMG design immediately indicate to our customers that the new E‑Class from AMG offers pure Driving Performance coupled with cutting-edge technology and intense emotion," notes Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

On the E 43 4MATIC, Mercedes-AMG has upgraded the six-cylinder engine's output by 25 kW (34 hp) to 295 kW (401 hp) with the aid of two larger turbochargers and sophisticated software applications. The ample peak torque of 520 Newton metres is available right from a low engine speed of 2500 rpm.

This package guarantees performance on a par with many a sports car: the new E 43 4MATIC reaches a speed of 100 km/h from a standing start in 4.6 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.

The data at a glance:

	Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC
Engine	V6 biturbo
Displacement	2996 cc
Output	295 kW (401 hp) at 6100 rpm
Peak torque	520 Nm at 2500-5000 rpm
Fuel consumption, combined	8.3 l/100 km
CO2 emissions, combined	189 g/km
Efficiency class	D
Kerb weight (according to DIN/EC)	1765 kg*/1840 kg**
Acceleration 0-100 km/h	4.6 s
Top speed	250 km/h***

* ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90 % full, without driver  and luggage); ** ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90 % full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg); *** electronically limited

Sporty and distinctive: the exterior design

The looks of the E 43 4MATIC also render it immediately recognisable as a member of the AMG family. Apart from underscoring the powerful and self-assured appearance, three large openings in the front apron also ensure an optimum flow of air to the coolers. 

Two elegant cross fins on the outer cooling openings enhance the vehicle's visual presence. The diamond grille with chromed pins, a louvre in high-gloss black and the AMG lettering represent further hallmarks of the AMG 43 models.

The side view is dominated by high-sheen 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black. The rear end also features characteristic highlights, with two chrome-plated quad-flow exhaust tailpipes conveying a particularly sporty aesthetic. The rear apron trim in diffusor look comes in silver chrome, while the standard-specification spoiler lip on the boot lid is painted in the body colour.

Sporty look with model-specific details: the interior design

The interior reinforces the dynamic calibre of the new E 43 4MATIC with numerous individual details. The driver and front passenger find a secure position in the sports seats even when driving at speed, thanks to the improved lateral support. 

The upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre in black (optionally: nappa leather) features a distinctive layout and red topstitching. To match the seat design, the door centre panels and the dashboard are finished in ARTICO man-made leather with red topstitching. Exclusive pedals, a black roof lining and red seat belts add further sporty highlights.

The multifunction sports steering wheel in black nappa leather with red contrasting topstitching and featuring a flattened bottom section is ideally suited to an emphatic driving style. 

The AMG instrument cluster delivers all relevant information in a clearly arranged layout optimised for a dynamic driving style. Two tube-style round dials, the 11.4 cm (4.5-inch) multifunction colour display, the RACETIMER and the 280 km/h scale in chequered-flag design conjure up a sports car feel.

High on power, low on consumption: the AMG 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine

The V6 biturbo engine boasts a high power output combined with low fuel consumption and emissions. The high power output of 295 kW (401 hp) is attributable, among other things, to new, larger turbochargers and the higher charge-air pressure of 1.1 bar. Installed close to the engine, the two turbochargers are especially spontaneous in their response.

The NANOSLIDE^® coating on the cylinder liners has also undergone further development in the Formula 1 V6 hybrid turbo engines from Mercedes-Benz. Especially tough and, therefore, wear-resistant, this coating also reduces friction, thereby contributing to higher efficiency. 

The same applies to the spray-guided multiple injection with up to 200 bar fuel pressure. The AMG powerplant can be identified by the red aluminium insert in the engine cover.

Short shift times, high efficiency: the 9G-TRONIC

The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is specially matched to the requirements of the new E 43 4MATIC. The AMG developers have managed to reduce the shift times of the 9-speed transmission by means of a dedicated software application. 

The multiple downshift function enables more spontaneous short bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in "Sport" and "Sport Plus" transmission modes makes for an even more emotional driving experience. Defined ignition intervention additionally enables faster gear shifting than in "Eco" and "Comfort" modes.

"Manual" mode can be selected using a separate button in the centre console. The gear changes are based on the selected transmission mode, and the driver can now change gear using the paddles on the steering wheel. Moreover, the transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches the limit.

More agility: the sports suspension based on AIR BODY CONTROL

For added agility, more neutral cornering behaviour and higher traction even when driving at speed, the developers in Affalterbach have designed a dedicated sports suspension on the basis of the AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension system. 

The Adaptive Damping System also features in a model-specific configuration and offers a choice of three modes – "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport Plus". This provides for broader scope between a high level of comfort for longer journeys and sporty driving dynamics.

The four-link front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components have been optimised in terms of rigidity. A more negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle enhances lateral dynamics. The elastokinematics of both axles have been designed to be more rigid in general. All these measures improve agility, and boost the dynamics.

Rear-biased and agile: AMG Performance 4MATIC

The standard-specification AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive features rear-biased torque distribution with a front/rear axle split of 31 to 69 percent. This configuration provides for enhanced driving dynamics and higher lateral acceleration on the road as well as improved traction when accelerating.

In combining the permanent four-wheel drive with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, the developers have opted for a change of concept: the single-stage transfer case of the four-wheel drive is flange-mounted on the 9G‑TRONIC as a separate system. 

On earlier generations of vehicles, the transfer case was integrated into the 7G-TRONIC PLUS. The new add-on solution makes it easier to modify torque distribution according to the model, thus enabling even more individual characteristics for the respective model series.

The new system is also more efffective than the earlier concept, by virtue of improved efficiency, reduced friction and a lower weight. Its compact design additionally means that it does not entail any space restrictions for passengers or luggage.

Characteristics at the tap of a finger: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT

With the five DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes "Eco", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport Plus" and "Individual", the driver can tailor the characteristics of the E 43 4MATIC Coupé to individual preferences at the tap of a finger. 

The available range extends from efficient and comfortable to extremely sporty. This modifies key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering. Independently of the DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, the driver has the option of pressing the "M" button to switch directly to manual mode, in which gearshifts are executed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. 

The suspension set-ups can also be selected as necessary.

The DYNAMIC SELECT "Sport" and "Sport Plus" transmission modes are configured with a clear emphasis on driving dynamics on the new E 43 4MATIC. This results from an agile accelerator pedal characteristic with direct set-up and emotional gear shifting with reduced shift times, double declutching and deactivation of certain cylinders. 

The increased idling speed additionally enables the vehicle to move off quickly and provides for faster acceleration from a standing start.

In order to increase efficiency, in "Eco" mode the ECO start/stop function and the gliding function reduce fuel consumption: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 60 and 160 km/h, the clutch is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain.

The electronics reduce the engine speed to idling level, and the driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.

Direct and with clear feedback: speed-sensitive sports steering

The speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable ratio on the E 43 4MATIC. It stands out with its precise, highly authentic feedback. Steering power assistance is available in a choice of two modes – "Comfort" or "Sport". 

The relevant characteristics are automatically activated depending on the selected DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode or can be personalised in Individual mode. Manual torque is increased in "Sport" mode, providing more feedback on driving conditions.

The large braking system with internally ventilated compound brake discs ensures reliable and quick deceleration of the saloon. Perforated discs in size 360 x 36 mm with 4-piston fixed callipers and AMG lettering are fitted on the front axle, while discs in size 360 x 26 mm with 1-piston fixed callipers feature at the rear.

Optional features with a sporty emphasis

The optionally available features also emphasize the sporty character of the

E 43 4MATIC. These range from AMG seats with increased lateral support through nappa leather upholstery to 20-inch bichromatic wheels.

The new Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC will have its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in March 2016.