2026 AMG C63 Might Eliminate 4-Cylinder Engine, But Not For Fans' Desires | Carscoops

      The updated Mercedes-AMG C63 is expected to receive a new powertrain, replacing the existing four-cylinder hybrid engine.

      According to reports, the facelifted AMG C63 will include a new plug-in hybrid system featuring a six-cylinder engine. This will take the place of the current turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 671 hp.

      Sources indicate that reverting to a V8 engine was not practical due to the significant modifications required.

      The era of V8-equipped Mercedes C-Class models is behind us, as the current C63 S E Performance operates as an environmentally conscious plug-in hybrid. It is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a rear-mounted electric motor, a 6.1 kWh battery, and a 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system.

      Although this configuration yields an impressive combined output of 671 hp (500 kW / 680 PS) and 752 lb-ft (1,018 Nm) of torque, the market reception has been muted for a four-cylinder AMG model priced from $86,050. This sentiment is reflected in sales numbers, which are reportedly falling “well behind expectations.”

      To tackle this issue, Mercedes is said to be phasing out the 2.0-liter engine in favor of a new twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, a setup already seen in various models like the E53, but likely with much greater power in this application.

      In an interesting twist, Autocar suggests that the revamped C63 may substitute its rear-mounted motor for one located between the engine and transmission. This adjustment could potentially reduce the combined output, although specifics remain unclear; reports indicate the new system should generate over 650 hp (485 kW / 659 PS) and 650 lb-ft (881 Nm) of torque.

      The engine transition is slated for next year’s facelift, and this new powertrain is also anticipated to appear in the 2027 GLC 63. While a six-cylinder may sound more impressive than a four, enthusiasts will likely be disappointed by the absence of a V8.

      Unfortunately for those fans, constraints in packaging rendered the twin-turbo 4.0-liter engine impractical for the C-Class. Specifically, a source indicated that fitting the V8 would necessitate “significant structural changes” along with additional crash testing and regulatory approval. This is a challenging proposition, especially considering the fifth-generation C-Class debuted over four years ago and a successor is likely on the horizon.

      Nevertheless, there is still hope, as the forthcoming CLE 63 lineup is expected to feature a flat-plane-crank twin-turbo V8.