Mercedes-AMG V8 Returns Because People Hate 4-Cylinder Muscle Cars
Mercedes-AMG has confirmed an all-new mild-hybrid version of its iconic V8 will be found in the upcoming CLE 63 set to debut later this year. This decision comes after the current C63's four-cylinder plug-in hybrid has absolutely failed to resonate with customers, resulting in cratered sales for one of AMG's core models.
Key Points
- The new mild-hybrid V8 engine will debut in the CLE 63 later this year, replacing the underperforming four-cylinder PHEV.
- The updated 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 will use a flat-plane crank for sharper throttle response, sacrificing AMG’s signature deep exhaust note.
- The V8 may return to the C63 in 2026, with AMG targeting increased annual sales from 140,000 to 200,000 units.
Although Mercedes-AMG has officially denied plans to expand the new V8 to other models, Autocar indicated that a revised C63 featuring the same hybridized V8 engine could arrive by next year. The new powertrain is rumored to be based on AMG's well-known twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 but with a major change—a flat-plane crankshaft replacing the traditional cross-plane design.
While this switch promises sharper throttle response and a higher redline, it comes at the cost of the deep, burbling exhaust note typically associated with AMG's V8s. To address this, AMG allegedly plans to include an artificial sound generator to replicate its signature exhaust tone.
This flat-plane crank design, previously seen in the AMG GT Black Series, enables a more compact crankcase, allowing the V8 to fit into models like the fifth-generation C-Class, which were not originally designed for such a large engine.
The current C63’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder plug-in hybrid delivers 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque but shoppers don't care for its lack of acoustic character or personality. By contrast, the previous-generation C63 S, with its burbling cross-plane V8, produced just 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque and offered a more engaging driving experience despite lower overall output.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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