Mercedes claims 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds, which is a mere tenth slower than the SLK55, and the same 155mph top-speed. In-gear charge is even more prodigious, because the turbos mean you’ve got more poke, more of the time. And yes, if you’re suitably binary with the right pedal, it’s got enough power to put on a traction control light show, and leave a trail of rubbery evidence.
This engine’s actually rather good fun. Throttle response is mighty sharp, for one thing. AMG has made the downsizing jump better than most, maintaining character without sacrificing performance or drivability.
The V6 isn’t brimming with induction noise – it’s all bark from the exhaust, but it does sound undeniably naughty. Don’t forget, we’ll be seeing much more of this engine in various fast C-class, E-class and GLCs pretty soon. So as we’re going to be friends, can we have more noise from the V6 and less of the exhaust going solo pleas