Mercedes-AMG is preparing to phase out the four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain in the current C63 and GLC63, Autocar has reported.
A senior source within the firm has told the publication that future petrol-powered AMG models will feature either an updated version of the present-day inline-six engine, or an all-new V8 engine using a flat-plane crankshaft, the latter alike that used in the AMG GT Black Series.
“Technically, the four-cylinder [engine] is one of the most advanced drivetrains available in a production car. It’s also right up there on performance. But despite this, it failed to resonate with our traditional customers. We’ve recognised that,” the source told Autocar.
For the time being, the 2.0 litre engine will continue to be in production before it is eventually replaced, the publication was told.
Previously, Mercedes-AMG told the publication that the W206 C63 facelift will feature a six-cylinder PHEV powertrain, and this is expected to be a development of the M256M 3.0 litre turbocharged unit that makes 449 PS and 560 Nm in the CLE53.
Among the main reasons for the shift away from 2.0 litre powertrain is the high cost of re-engineering the four-cylinder unit to comply with upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations, according to Autocar. “There’s no doubt about its potential – this is one of the most sophisticated engines we’ve ever built – but the investment to make it EU7-compliant is very high,” the source told the publication.
Meanwhile, AMG remains committed to a dual-drivetrain strategy, Mercedes-Benz chief technical officer Markus Schäfer said, according to the report. “AMG will continue with a dual strategy – two pillars. The electric pillar will grow significantly. But the second pillar – [electrified] internal-combustion engines – will also remain,” Schäfer said.
“AMG and Mercedes are working together on a brand-new V8 engine. That engine will support upcoming emissions regulations. [In terms of larger engines] there will still be six- and eight-cylinder units, all electrified with either 48V systems or full hybrid set-ups,” he added.
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