Is Mercedes-AMG Rethinking V8 C and E-Class Saloons?
AMG has been a hot topic of discussion recently thanks to its controversial decision to remove the bi-turbocharged V8 from its iconic C63 and E63 models.
The decision was one that was not well received, and the sales showed it. Despite claiming over 500kW, AMG purists seem to hate the fact that a four-cylinder is the heart of this new unit. And to our surprise, there has been word that the V8 will return to these models, but the truth behind the rumour may not leave you so optimistic.
Given that most enthusiasts aren’t thrilled with the new four-pot C/E63, it’s unsurprising that rumours of AMG reintroducing the V8 spread like wildfire. However, after doing some digging and getting in touch with Mercedes people in the know, there doesn’t appear to be a V8 model on the horizon. Yet.
From what we gathered, some of the local Mercedes team members recently went to Germany to tour their state-of-the-art facilities and drive some of the upcoming models, including the likes of the four-cylinder C63 S and AMG One. However, there was no V8-powered C63 in sight, or discussed, for that matter. It is then safe to say that there will probably not be a V8 version of the C63/E63 on the horizon at least for now.
We have seen brands like Porsche dabble in the downsizing trend, and, like Mercedes, the reception from the buying public was lukewarm at best. Sure, there is a global demand and necessity for more efficient and planet-friendly motoring solutions, hence the existence of cars like the Taycan. Taking a revered car-engine combination, though, and upending a formula that works is generally a bit risky and definitely a discussion for another day. For now, there seems to be no attempt to reintroduce the V8 to AMG’s performance sedans, as the market laments the lack of cylinders.
Who knows, maybe Mercedes-AMG will stick to its guns or, like another esteemed German carmaker, see that there is still value to be extracted from its iconic engines.
