Car fans, especially AMG fans, have been rather noisy lately—and Mercedes-AMG is undoubtedly listening. After trying to implement a high-tech four-cylinder hybrid into some of the brand's most beloved performance cars, it seems the brand is "backtracking". You can't provide a splitting performance number when a car is so much more than its numbers; its sounds and feelings connect a driver to a car.
Let's explore what is changing, why it matters, and what is happening next for buyers in the U.S.
Why the Four-Cylinder Hybrid Didn't Work
On paper, AMG's 2.0-liter hybrid engine was a beast---671 horsepower, quick acceleration, and eco-friendly can't-charge-it-while-charging (kind of) power. But, it just didn't sound or feel like the AMG people grew up with.
This is why fans weren't convinced:
- The V8s had a roar only Lamborghinis and Ferraris can match and there was none of that.
- The engine felt too clinical. It felt more like a laptop-besting machine with wheels than it did a sound-sporty car/engine.
- There was performance, but the emotion was lacking.
Even Schiebe admitted, "We lost customers with the current C63." That's a remarkable statement from any brand, especially a revered brand the likes of Mercedes.
What's Coming Instead? Back to the Good Stuff
The shift at Mercedes-AMG back to inline-six and V8 engines means big news for American performance fans. These engines do not only have more power, they feel much better and also create that great deep, aggressive growl that can vibrate you deep in your chest.
What you can expect:
- Inline-six hybrids: Smoother, richer sounding and still efficient.
- Next-gen V8s: Maybe with a flat-plane crank for an even wilder sound and revs.
- It is possible that both will include hybrid systems to mitigate emissions but still keep the AMG character intact.
This clearly shows Mercedes will not abandon electrification, but they also will not allow electrification to ruin the fun of driving.
Which Vehicles Are Receiving the Engine Rework?
The AMG C63 S E Performance and GLC63 S were the first to utilize the four-cylinder hybrid - though this was phenomenally successful in practice, it will be the last. Mercedes-AMG is officially overhauling that system entirely.
Which engines are going where:
- Inline-six: The new inline-six engine is expected to be utilized in vehicle variants such as the upcoming CLE 53, the E53 and beyond.
- V8: The V8 is expected to return in C63 and new SL models.
- Timing: North American customers might see these updates happen from late 2026 onward.
So, if you have been waiting to pull the trigger on that C63 for lease with the engine 'situation' - then your wish might come true.
A Win for AMG Advocates in the U.S.
This is more than just about specs—it’s about repairing a relationship. The AMG advocates have been extremely loyal from year to year, and this felt like the brand making good.
Why that matters:
- American drivers love large, powerful engines—especially V8s.
- Sound and feel matters more than ever in the heavily digital environment we are all accustomed.
- AMG is showing they care about real drivers, not just emissions graphs.
For the U.S. market, where the affection for V8s are adventurous, this is probably the move that will bring many buyers back into the showrooms.
Mercedes-AMG Engine Specs Comparison
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Conclusion
Mercedes-AMG's decision to abandon the 4-cylinder plug-in hybrid makes it clear that performance isn't just horsepower, it's heart. By engaging loyal fans to "bring back real sounding engines with character and soul," AMG is affirming that driving excitement still matters—even in a world increasingly headed towards electrification and battery powered vehicles.
For U.S. enthusiasts, this is a victory. Whether you pine for the roar of a V8 or are overjoyed at the thought of driving an inline-six hybrid, the elements of the upcoming AMG line-up will be much more in-sync with what drivers want.
Sometimes, moving forward means going back to why people fell in love in the first place.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): caranddriver
