Because of this, the car never feels truly manual. There’s a disconcerting feeling the robots might take over at any time and swerve you into oncoming traffic – it’s the perfect opening scene for a not-so-future dystopian sci-fi movie. The car changes drastically when you select ‘Sport +’ mode. A valve in the exhaust opens up to reveal the gurgling bass of the 3.0-litre, twin turbo V6, which delivers instant acceleration and a hungry roar. Let’s hope the robots don’t find out.

The Tech

Cars have come a long way in the last 20 years, which is why the C 43’s power output of 385bhp doesn’t seem like much. Two decades ago this was a supercar stat. It’s only 10bhp off the Ferrari 360 Modena, the Italian marque’s flagship supercar at the turn of the millennium. The 0-60mph time is the same, at 4.5 seconds.

So what we have is a seriously quick machine more than befitting of its AMG badge. That can drive and park itself. And has heated seats. And a top down camera that stares over the car like the original Grand Theft Auto. It’s a sports car, but it will also get you to work in utter comfort.

The Verdict

The C 43 is a looker, but a little subdued considering the three letters it proudly sports. It shouldn’t need the badge to be able to tell what it is. But some will like that somewhat stealthy quality. The right pedal gives you access to more speed than anyone needs, with an exhaust note that delivers drama (and plenty of pops and bangs) with every gear change. It’s not scary quick, but it’s enough. A subdued supercar slayer? Not quite by today’s standards, but the way the C 43 combines its accessible, exciting speed and its incredible tech means nobody should care.

Top Speed: 155mph Acceleration (0-60mph): 4.5 seconds Power: 385bhp Price: From £50,010 For more information, click here