Reports of a twin-turbo V8 engine making its way back to the Mercedes-AMG C63 and E63 have, unfortunately, been grossly exaggerated. Despite the buzz around a potential return of V8 power to both models by 2026, Mercedes-AMG CEO Michael Schiebe has decisively put an end to the speculation.
In an interview with The Drive at Monterey Car Week, Schiebe outright rejected the idea that Mercedes-AMG would reintroduce V8 power to the high-performance C-Class and E-Class models. This means the C63 will continue to rely on its four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain, which has faced criticism for its weight and complexity, while the upcoming E63 is set to receive an electrified inline-six configuration. Schiebe expressed confidence that AMG’s decision aligns well with the evolving market trends.
“I prefer not to discuss other manufacturers, but it appears that numerous performance hybrids are on the horizon. Many have been either announced or are in development,” he remarked. “So I believe our strategic shift in that direction was the right move.”
Mercedes-AMG
Indeed, there is one direct competitor embracing hybrid technology—the next-generation BMW M5 is set to retain its V8 engine for one more iteration. Reports suggest that the car will utilize the same twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 found in the BMW XM crossover.
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance remains impressive, combining a 2.0-liter M139 four-cylinder engine with an F1-inspired electric turbo unit and a rear-axle electric motor to deliver 671 horsepower and 752 pound-feet of torque. Despite being known for its agility, the new C63 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, but its weight of 4,654 pounds—almost 800 pounds heavier than its V8 predecessor—has raised concerns. This weight shift has necessitated a heavier reliance on technology for handling, with initial reviews presenting mixed opinions.
Schiebe stressed that for the foreseeable future, internal combustion engines will persist in new AMG vehicles as hybrid support becomes more prevalent. The company is focused on enhancing performance of traditional combustion engines, with models like the upcoming 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT coupe, SL convertible, and S63 sedan sticking with V8 powerplants as long as feasible. He hinted that given Mercedes’ typical product cycle of around seven years, AMG V8s are likely to be available in some form until the decade’s end.
Meanwhile, AMG’s electrification strategy is progressing briskly, with efforts to develop the proprietary AMG.EA electric vehicle platform well underway. In light of this, the turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain in the C63 is here to stay for the long haul.
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