Mercedes-AMG C63 To Feature V8 Engine Again By 2026?

Enthusiasts have been somewhat disappointed with the recent shift towards electrified four- and six-cylinder setups, yearning for the signature power and performance offered by the V8.

Rumours suggest that Mercedes-AMG is contemplating the integration of the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V-8 with a hybrid powertrain, similar to what is seen in the AMG GT63 S E Performance and AMG S63 models. If these speculations are true, the V8 engine could make its triumphant return in the much-loved C63S and E63S as soon as 2026.

The disappointment among AMG enthusiasts is palpable. The current C63 has replaced the V8 engine with a hybridised turbo-four, and the forthcoming E63 is expected to feature an inline-six plug-in-hybrid setup. Many argue that this might not be enough to rival competitors like the BMW M3, which boasts a potent twin-turbo inline-six, or the anticipated BMW M5, rumoured to have a hybrid twin-turbo V8. Additionally, the upcoming Audi RS5 and RS7 are set to flaunt a V6 hybrid generating an impressive 640 horsepower.

To address this dilemma, industry insiders claim that the V8 engine, specifically the M177 4.0-litre variant, will indeed make its way back to the C and E Class by 2026. In preparation for its return, the V8 engine is undergoing modifications to meet stringent EU7 emissions standards.

Currently, this powerhouse engine is utilised in the AMG GT63 S E Performance and AMG S63, producing 831 horsepower and 791 horsepower, respectively. Both of these applications also feature a hybrid setup, showcasing the potential of this formidable combination. It seems likely that the hardcore AMG versions will remain in production well into the next decade.

As the automotive world eagerly awaits the official announcement, one thing is clear – the return of the V8 engine to the Mercedes-AMG C-Class and E-Class models is wanted by the brand's customers. Only time will tell how this story unfolds, but the prospect of the V8's triumphant comeback will give the AMG community some hope.