Mercedes-AMG has a new V8 in the pipeline

Mercedes-AMG has a new V8 in the pipeline

Mercedes-Benz is having a tough stint, and after its Annual Results Conference in 2024, there are enough concerns to concern any business executive. Evidently, Merc's drive for innovation may have gone too far. But to ensure their customers retain a level of interest in the brand through eight and twelve cylinders, 2026 is set to produce some pretty appealing hybridised cars for AMG.

Before we get too excited, there is no confirmation that this new power plant will find its way into the C63, but it’s a promising step in the right direction. Merc's new mindset is summed up in three words: Leaner, faster, and stronger. Words we love to hear from a performance manufacturer. And this project stretches past only AMG models. The C-Class, E-Class, and GLC will roll out with EV variations, and the S-Class gets a major ego boost with the continuation of the V12.

This 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged brute of a German V12 heart will only be available in specific markets, likely with looser emission regulations, which means we might be in luck. The brand will also continue to provide Pagani with their fire-breathing 12 cylinders for the likes of the Utopia. This also makes it the only brand in the luxury German trio to retain a V12 in its lineup after BMW killed its 6.6-litre engine in 2022.

As for its V8s, this new power unit will be a high-tech, hybrid power system, which will be a further refinement of the V8 in the likes of the GT63. There is also an effort being made to improve the architecture of its engines so that their petrol-powered models are as well represented as their EV counterparts. This V8 refinement is aimed at the AMG.EA platform, which is mostly utilised in the brand's performance SUVs. As for the engine's hybridisation aspect, and whether it will be a version of the present 4.0-litre V8 in the SL and GT models, it is yet to be confirmed.

On a slightly less thrilling front, the CLA has also had some heart surgery and will now be offered in a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder hybrid configuration with an 8-speed DCT gearbox. For the time being, it's clear that Merc is listening to feedback, and this news provides a positive look into Merc's future plans and brings us one step closer to what will hopefully be a C63 V8 return.

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