Mercedes-AMG is preparing to phase out the four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain in the current C63 and GLC63, Autocar has reported.
A senior source within the firm has told the publication that future petrol-powered AMG models will feature either an updated version of the present-day inline-six engine, or an all-new V8 engine using a flat-plane crankshaft, the latter alike that used in the AMG GT Black Series.
“Technically, the four-cylinder [engine] is one of the most advanced drivetrains available in a production car. It’s also right up there on performance. But despite this, it failed to resonate with our traditional customers. We’ve recognised that,” the source told Autocar.
For the time being, the 2.0 litre engine will continue to be in production before it is eventually replaced, the publication was told.
Previously, Mercedes-AMG told the publication that the W206 C63 facelift will feature a six-cylinder PHEV powertrain, and this is expected to be a development of the M256M 3.0 litre turbocharged unit that makes 449 PS and 560 Nm in the CLE53.
Among the main reasons for the shift away from 2.0 litre powertrain is the high cost of re-engineering the four-cylinder unit to comply with upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations, according to Autocar. “There’s no doubt about its potential – this is one of the most sophisticated engines we’ve ever built – but the investment to make it EU7-compliant is very high,” the source told the publication.
Meanwhile, AMG remains committed to a dual-drivetrain strategy, Mercedes-Benz chief technical officer Markus Schäfer said, according to the report. “AMG will continue with a dual strategy – two pillars. The electric pillar will grow significantly. But the second pillar – [electrified] internal-combustion engines – will also remain,” Schäfer said.
“AMG and Mercedes are working together on a brand-new V8 engine. That engine will support upcoming emissions regulations. [In terms of larger engines] there will still be six- and eight-cylinder units, all electrified with either 48V systems or full hybrid set-ups,” he added.
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Already predicted they will U-turn when they launch the 2L PHEV in the C63. It is just encouraging buyers to look for M3 or RS4 (even an IS500 has more drama than the 4-cylinder C63 although the Lexus is down on power), and Mercedes finally realize the mistake.
Felt sorry for the buyers who bought the 4-cylinder C63.
Among the main reasons for the shift away from 2.0 litre powertrain is the high cost of re-engineering the four-cylinder unit to comply with upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations.
Lol and we were told smaller engines lesser cylinders (Cough 3cyl Cough) is better for the environment.
The 4-cyl C63 is a joke. How many people they lost to BMW M3 and M4… lmao.
They tried to push their agenda onto their customers and failed miserably.
the wokeys who would cheer this dont even drive… they use uber
Poor management, roti canai policies. Good luck Merc.
And just like that, the resale value of 4 cylinder hybrid C63 and GLC63 just gone down the drain. Thanks, Mercedes.