Mercedes-AMG C63 replacement to become a hybrid

Mercedes-AMG is remaining committed to V8 engines for the C 63, but that may all change going forward. With emission standards on the rise and electrification being in vogue, the eight-cylinder may have to step aside for something smaller.

“I think the formula is perfect for now, but for sure we need to have a close look at viable alternatives, because we have to be creative and I’m chasing performance and that’s not strictly linked to the number of cylinders,” Tobias Moers, CEO of AMG, said in a report by CarAdvice.

“If you apply proper intelligent hybridisation or electrification to a car which is capable of having an always-on strategy regarding the battery and the whole system, then it’s amazing what you can get out of them. Which means for sure the next-generation Mercedes-AMG C 63 will be a hybrid – that’s now a given,” he added.

Moers also hinted the C 63 may lose its trademark rear-wheel drive setup in its next generation, although he didn’t reveal further details. Considering the current E 63 comes with a new AMG Performance 4Matic+ fully variable all-wheel drive system, the next C 63 could offer the same flexibility as well.

For now, the facelifted C 63 has already been revealed at the New York International Auto Show, with the V8 remaining very much as is. “I think it’s a perfect combination of power output and gears, now with the nine-speed box, which offers the perfect range of gears. It’s better sorted out on a race track – you’re always in the right gear, coming out of corners, for example,” Moers said.

“The C63 was always well balanced, but now its better because we increased the driving dynamics, added a little bit more comfort and it’s faster on a racetrack with better traction on the rear axle. You can get back on the throttle mid-corner and nothing happens, which is great.”

“We applied some features from the GT R, too, like our integrated vehicle controller, which is part of the ESP. We’ve also changed all the suspension settings with a new anti-roll bar and new dampers, spring rates along with geometry changes for really, more comfort and faster lap times,” he added.

With the V8 gone, there’s the matter of what customers will hear from the exhaust. “Obviously, if it runs electrical then there’s no AMG thunder. We are facing severe regulations, especially in Europe, but sound is very important for our customers, no doubt about that. However, I’m confident that we will find the right solution for that issue,” explained Moers.

GALLERY: Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Coupe facelift

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