New Flat-Plane V8 Arriving in Mercedes-AMG CLE 63, Yet It Won't Have the Same Sound | Carscoops

      While Mercedes' decision to reintroduce V8 engines for AMG's high-performance models is appreciated, there’s an audible change that might not please traditional V8 enthusiasts.

      A recent report confirms that the Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 will indeed feature a V8 engine, marking a shift from the PHEV turbocharged four-cylinder seen in recent AMG models. However, it’s reported that Mercedes plans to incorporate artificial exhaust sounds to enhance the cabin experience.

      V8 fans can celebrate, as Mercedes is responding to their demands by bringing back the engine for its AMG series. The forthcoming CLE 63 will have a V8, but there’s a catch. While this is thrilling news, the engine may have lost some of its character, as it may not sound like the classic V8s, particularly when the external sounds are turned off.

      Carscoops mentioned back in May 2024 that Mercedes would reinstate the V8 in part of its AMG range. At that time, details on this transition were still unclear. Today, we’re gaining more insight, although the news is somewhat mixed.

      Yes, the V8 is indeed part of the upcoming CLE 63, which has been anticipated for months. However, we observed in January that the prototypes in testing didn’t sound like the traditional AMG V8s we remember. This likely stems from the use of petrol particulate filters that diminish the characteristic roar of this engine. We speculated then that AMG might introduce some artificial exhaust sounds to offset this issue.

      The Flat-Plane Crank Aspect

      As per Autocar, this is indeed the plan from Mercedes. Furthermore, they indicate that there’s another reason for the quieter new V8 aside from the filters. Instead of a cross-plane crankshaft, a flat-plane crank will be utilized. This is similar to what can be found in older Audi S4 models and the Ford Mustang Shelby variants. While these don’t produce the same low-end burble, they deliver a pleasing sound at high RPMs.

      To counterbalance the higher-pitched, aggressive tone of the flat-plane crank V8, Mercedes will implement speakers to recreate some of the lower rumble that fans appreciated in older AMG V8s. "To make up for the sound characteristics of the flat-plane crank V8, AMG intends to equip future models with an artificial sound generator to mimic the burbling sound of its most iconic models," states the magazine report.

      The new V8 is also anticipated to include a mild-hybrid 48V system equipped with a starter motor within the gearbox, enhancing power and efficiency. There are whispers of a potential plug-in hybrid variant, but those remain speculative at this point.

      For reference, the current C63 features a PHEV powertrain combining a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a rear-mounted electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery, producing a total of 671 horsepower and 752 lbs of torque.

      What are your thoughts on this development? Should Mercedes eliminate the artificial sounds and pursue a high-revving V8 that can create its own legacy? Or should it continue to incorporate traditional rumble as much as possible? Share your opinions in the comments!