Mercedes-AMG may have finally acknowledged the desire for a V8 Engine

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The notion of implementing a V8 engine in the upcoming AMG CLE63, instead of the previously planned F1-derived four-cylinder hybrid, seems to be gaining traction at Mercedes. Despite the potential power output of hybrid engines, the timeless allure and prestige associated with a V8 engine appear to hold more sway over potential buyers than any technical argument AMG can present.

Reportedly, the decision to opt for an eight-cylinder powerplant in the Mercedes-AMG CLE63 originates from senior executives within the company. According to sources like Autocar, the upcoming coupe and cabriolet models will be equipped with a V8 engine due to the underwhelming demand for the current E-Performance plug-in hybrid C63 and GLC63, which feature a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder coupled with an electric motor, producing an impressive 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque.

Autocar suggests that the CLE63 model will now be powered by Mercedes’ latest M177 4.0-liter V8 engine, which uses twin turbos and mild hybrid technology to deliver 577 hp. While this setup represents a decrease of 94 horsepower, it also introduces four additional cylinders to the equation—depending on one’s perspective.

Some individuals may view this shift towards V8 engines as AMG adapting to consumer preferences rather than solely focusing on performance, which is typically seen as the driving force behind the M-B subsidiary. Conversely, others may argue that AMG’s commitment to V8s is akin to a return to its roots and a demonstration of attentiveness to customer feedback. Markus Schäfer, the head of Mercedes-Benz R&D, states that the ultimate decision lies with the customers themselves regarding AMG’s engine choices in future models, as reported by Autocar.

Mercedes-AMG CLE53. Mercedes-Benz

Allegedly, sales of the current C63 and GLC63 models have fallen below those of previous V8-powered iterations, indicating a clear preference from customers. Additionally, Mercedes dealers express concerns that consumers may find it confusing to see a four-cylinder CLE63 positioned above the six-cylinder CLE53 model within the AMG lineup, as highlighted in Autocar. It appears that these particular customers may not be aware of the hybrid prowess derived from Formula 1, where the essence of the AMG C63’s hybrid technology was honed.

While the official confirmation of the V8 engine upgrade is pending, it seems increasingly unlikely that the AMG CLE63 will debut as a four-cylinder PHEV. Last year, Mercedes-AMG hinted at the reintroduction of V8 engines for the C63 and E63 by 2026. Shortly after, there were speculations refuting this claim, but recent trends suggest that the V8 resurrection is becoming a viable option once more, driven by consumer demands. If proven accurate, this decision represents a significant shift towards larger engines over smaller yet more potent ones.