Mercedes-Benz AMG CEO Michael Schiebe has made it clear that future C 63 or E 63 models will not be powered by a V-8 engine.
During a discussion at the 2023 Monterey Car Week, Schiebe was questioned regarding an anonymous report in Car and Driver, which suggested that AMG would equip the existing C 63 and the succeeding E 63 with a V-8 engine by 2026. Schiebe unequivocally denied these claims to The Drive, stating that the possibility can be “definitively” ruled out.
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Further elaborating on AMG’s strategic direction, Schiebe justified the focus on downsized engines paired with hybrid powertrains, indicating that it aligns with the current industry trend.
He stated, “Although I prefer not to comment on other manufacturers, the fact remains that the market is witnessing an influx of performance hybrids or at least their announcements. Hence, our decision to embrace this direction appears to be justified.”
Michael Schiebe
With the redesign of its C 63, AMG has abandoned the V-8 engine in favor of a more advanced plug-in hybrid system centered around a 4-cylinder engine. Despite a substantial power increase to 671 hp, this transition has led to a weight gain of nearly 800 pounds compared to the previous V-8 model.
It is widely believed that similar changes are on the horizon for the forthcoming E 63, with speculation surrounding a 6-cylinder engine to be used as the internal combustion element of its plug-in hybrid mechanism.
BMW, on the other hand, is preparing to unveil a newly redesigned M5, likely featuring a V-8 plug-in hybrid powertrain resembling the one in their XM flagship SUV.
Meanwhile, AMG does offer a V-8 plug-in hybrid powertrain, but it is presently designated only for their premium S-Class and GT 4-Door Coupe lines, delivering an impressive 800 hp.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mercedes-Benz AMG
What has Mercedes-Benz AMG’s CEO announced regarding the use of V-8 engines in future C 63 and E 63 models?
Michael Schiebe, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz AMG, has firmly stated that the V-8 engine will not be used in future C 63 or E 63 models. During the 2023 Monterey Car Week, he definitively denied any such possibility, underscoring the company’s shift towards hybrid powertrains with downsized engines.
What is the reason behind AMG’s decision to move away from V-8 engines?
AMG’s decision to abandon the V-8 engine for its C 63 and possibly the next E 63 stems from the market trend towards performance hybrids. Michael Schiebe justified the move by emphasizing the increasing presence of performance hybrids in the market and the need to align with this direction.
What powertrain has replaced the V-8 in the redesigned C 63?
In the redesigned C 63, AMG has opted for a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain built around a 4-cylinder engine. Although the power has been boosted to 671 hp, it has resulted in an increase in weight of almost 800 pounds over the old V-8 model.
Is AMG completely moving away from V-8 engines in all its models?
No, AMG is not entirely moving away from V-8 engines. The V-8 plug-in hybrid powertrain is currently reserved for the high-end S-Class and GT 4-Door Coupe lines, delivering around 800 hp. It is just the C 63 and E 63 models that will see a change in powertrain strategy.
What are the speculated plans for the next E 63’s powertrain?
The next E 63 is believed to be planned with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, possibly with a 6-cylinder engine serving as the internal-combustion component, aligning with AMG’s strategy of utilizing hybrid technology with downsized engines.
More about Mercedes-Benz AMG
- Mercedes-Benz AMG Official Website
- The Drive’s Interview with Michael Schiebe
- Car and Driver’s Anonymous Report
- Monterey Car Week 2023
- BMW’s Upcoming Redesigned M5
5 comments
Is it just me or does anyone else think they should’ve stuck with the V8 in the AMGs, they are know for power and performance after all.
i read the Car and Driver report before this, didn’t expect a flat out denial from Schiebe. Exciting changes for Mercedes though.
Finally moving away from the V8 for C 63, that’s what I’ve been waitin for! Anyone else feel like the industry’s headed in the right direction with these hybrids?
800 pounds heavier with the hybrid. That’s massive. How’s it gonna affect the overall performance and handling? I have my doubts.
hybrids, electric, all the future stuff, but i still miss the roar of a V8