Mercedes-AMG Obligated to Discontinue Some of Its Loudest Vehicles Due to New EU Regulations | Carscoops

      Stricter regulations coming in 2026 will put an end to some of Affalterbach's loudest models.

      Reports indicate that production of the C43, GLC43, and GLA35 will conclude by February 2026.

      The future electric models from AMG, including the GT, will feature artificial V8 sounds.

      This is disappointing news for those who believe a true Mercedes-AMG should rattle windows and disturb nearby residents: Mercedes will soon discontinue several of its most boisterous combustion engine models, and the EU is to blame once more.

      As per a leaked internal memo from Mercedes-Benz, the UN-R51.03 “Phase 3” noise regulations, effective from July 1, 2026, will impose stricter external sound limits throughout the European Union.

      These updated regulations are part of a larger effort to reduce urban noise pollution, which means that several currently loud AMG models will not comply.

      ### Models Facing Discontinuation

      According to the memo reviewed by Elektro Auto News, several models will be affected. The production of the AMG C43 4Matic and GLC43 4Matic will finish by February 2026, as will the GLA35 4Matic. Their larger counterparts, the C63 SE Performance and GLC63 SE Performance, will have until May 2026 before they are also discontinued.

      For now, one of the few compact AMG models likely to survive is the GLA45 S 4Matic+, which Mercedes states can still be ordered "without restriction." However, dealers have been cautioned not to accept new orders for the phased-out models after the specified dates.

      On the bright side, it's worth noting that all the affected models have only four cylinders. Furthermore, the controversial C63 S E Performance PHEV, which has struggled with sales since replacing its 4.0-liter V8 with a 2.0-liter plug-in four-cylinder, will not be missed.

      The model is set to receive an inline six-cylinder engine in a 2026 update, while the V8s seem to be safe, as they are not mentioned in the leaked memo.

      ### What’s Next

      While AMG has not officially addressed the leak, a spokesperson for the company informed German media that the brand is planning the "most extensive product offensive in its history." In other words, expect a wave of next-generation hybrid and electric AMGs based on the forthcoming AMG.EA platform, including exciting concepts like the AMG GT XX.

      Recent spy photos of a revamped SL63 indicate that traditional V8 models will continue to be available for some time, and AMG has even developed an artificial V8 sound for its EVs to enhance the driving experience.

      "Naturally, the traditional values of our brand DNA will also be reflected in our future models," AMG told Elektro Auto News.