V8's surprising return

author: FutureCar Staff    

Mercedes-AMG is set to make a surprising change to its V8-powered C63 sports sedan, as reports suggest the company is planning to drop the smaller, more efficient engine that was recently introduced. The decision is said to be a result of slow sales of the new four-cylinder C63, prompting Mercedes-AMG management to reconsider its strategy. According to the reports, the company is now preparing to install the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 into the sports sedan by 2026, despite the new C63 not yet being available in Australian showrooms.

The new C63 currently features a Formula 1-inspired 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with electric motor boost, producing an impressive 500kW of power and 1020Nm of torque. However, it appears that AMG buyers are not enthusiastic about the idea of a four-cylinder C63 after years of experiencing the power of V8 engines.

While Mercedes has not confirmed or denied the speculation from European media outlets, the company has previously mentioned its plans to update the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 to meet upcoming EU7 emissions regulations, ensuring its usability in various models. Although the V8 engine was dropped from the C63, it continues to be used in other AMG models such as the S63, SL63, and G63. However, to comply with the new regulations, the V8 engine will likely require some form of hybrid assistance in the future. AMG has already showcased this solution with the recent introduction of the GT 63 S E Performance, which combines the 4.0-litre V8 with an electric motor, resulting in an output of 620kW and 1400Nm.

It remains to be seen whether such a system can be accommodated in the smaller C63 body, but it seems that Mercedes-AMG has recognized that there is still demand for V8 engines despite stricter emissions regulations and the increasing popularity of electric vehicles.

FutureCar Staff