Hottest New Cars at Detroit

Utilizing the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 found in the C400, the C450 extracts extra power mainly by increasing the turbo boost pressure. But there are further welcome changes: The seven-speed torque-converter automatic shifts more quickly, and in manual mode there are no automatic shifts—not even at kickdown or redline. The exhaust system operates with less back pressure, which adds a noticeable exhaust rumble and enhances power. While these changes are good news for the ambitious driver, we believe that the C450 AMG—which hits the American market this fall—is still a far cry from the ultra-high-performance AMG C63.