No, the Mercedes-AMG C63 Won’t Regain a V8 in the Future
The Mercedes-AMG naming system has long defined entry-, mid-, and high-level cars, but enthusiasts had plenty to say about the brand’s move to a hybrid four-cylinder engine in one of its most iconic current models. The newest C63 dropped its fantastic V8 in favor of a complex four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain, and while we reported on the rumors that have pointed to the eight-cylinder’s return, Mercedes-AMG’s CEO recently put all speculation to bed.
Speaking with The Drive at the recent Monterey Car Week in California, CEO Michael Schiebe said he could “definitively deny” that the V8 would return to the C63 or E63. He also noted that the company felt it was headed in the right direction, with much of the industry following suit, pointing out that “there are many more performance hybrids coming to the market now. Or at least they’ve been announced.”
The upcoming E63 is expected to get an electrified inline-six-cylinder engine to place it a step above the C63 in AMG’s catalog, but it’s clear the shift to fewer cylinders doesn’t mean less power. Despite an almost 800-pound weight gain, the new C63 S E Performance delivers 671 horsepower and a massive 752 pounds of torque. The V8’s sound was a significant part of the overall 63-level package, but it appears to be the only casualty in the shift. That said, the car’s extra weight has garnered some less-than-stellar opinions from some critics.
Mercedes-AMG has been known for its powerful V8 engines that produce exhilarating performance and a distinctive exhaust note. However, with the increasing focus on electrification and sustainability in the automotive industry, it seems that even performance-oriented brands like AMG are embracing hybrid powertrains. The decision to replace the V8 engine in the C63 with a four-cylinder plug-in hybrid system may have disappointed some purists, but it aligns with the industry’s shift towards more environmentally friendly technologies.
CEO Michael Schiebe’s statement that the V8 won’t return to the C63 or E63 models may come as a disappointment to those who were hoping for a return to the brand’s iconic V8-powered performance. However, Schiebe’s emphasis on the industry’s move towards performance hybrids suggests that Mercedes-AMG is committed to staying at the forefront of automotive innovation. By embracing hybrid technology, the brand can continue to deliver impressive performance while also reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency.
The new C63 S E Performance’s power figures are certainly impressive, with 671 horsepower and 752 pounds of torque. These numbers demonstrate that even with fewer cylinders, the car can still deliver exhilarating performance. The addition of electric motors and batteries allows for instant torque delivery and enhanced acceleration, compensating for the loss of the V8’s raw power. Furthermore, the hybrid system provides the opportunity for improved fuel economy and reduced emissions, making the C63 more sustainable without sacrificing performance.
While some critics have expressed concerns about the car’s weight gain, it’s important to remember that the shift to hybrid powertrains often comes with additional components such as batteries and electric motors, which can increase the overall weight of the vehicle. However, advancements in technology are continuously being made to reduce the weight of these components, ensuring that future hybrid models will be lighter and more agile.
In conclusion, Mercedes-AMG’s decision to replace the V8 engine in the C63 with a four-cylinder plug-in hybrid system may have disappointed some enthusiasts, but it reflects the brand’s commitment to embracing hybrid technology and staying ahead of industry trends. The new C63 S E Performance demonstrates that even with fewer cylinders, the car can still deliver impressive performance. While the loss of the V8’s iconic sound may be lamented by some, the benefits of hybrid power, such as instant torque delivery and improved fuel efficiency, make the shift worthwhile. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it’s essential for brands like Mercedes-AMG to adapt and embrace new technologies to meet the demands of both performance enthusiasts and environmental advocates.
