Mercedes-AMG 4-Cylinder PHEV Powertrain Was A Mistake, Says Automaker

Earlier this month, it was reported that the coming C-Class facelift will finally replace the controversial hybrid inline four-cylinder gas engine setup found in AMG models with bigger engines. That’s now been reported again by an anonymous source speaking to Autocar at the reveal of the new all-electric Mercedes-AMG Concept AMG GT XX. AMG’s unwanted compact powertrain will reportedly be phased out in favor of an inline six-cylinder or a new V8 setup in the next few years.

Small Engine Failed To Resonate

“Technically, the four-cylinder is one of the most advanced drivetrains available in a production car. It’s also right up there in terms of performance. But despite this, it failed to resonate with our traditional customers. We’ve recognized that,” said the anonymous source to Autocar. In the Mercedes-AMG C63 this drivetrain is good for 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque, which is a lot for anything, never mind a four-cylinder. The Merc can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds, thanks in part to its all-wheel drive setup.

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Too Much Weight And Complexity, Not Enough Character

Critics have argued that this powertrain setup lacks the character of an inline-six or V8 engine, which customers apparently notice and now miss. It also adds weight and needless complexity as Mercedes aims to balance efficiency and power. Now, it’s reported that it would also require an expensive overhaul to stay in production, due to stricter emissions regulations looming in Europe. Because of that cost proposition, it seems Mercedes-AMG has decided to throw out the tech in favor of its existing hybrid inline-six setup, or a new V8.

What’s Coming Next?

One possible powertrain is a new plug-in hybrid setup featuring a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine based on the one already found in the E53, GLE 53, and CLE 53. It’s also been reported that the facelifted AMG C63 could get a mild-hybrid twin-turbo V8 that’s already rumored for the CLE 63. Either one would likely satisfy customers who complain about the lack of character and intrigue of the current four-pot setup. Similarly, Autocar also reports that the SL43 model will replace its small 2.0-liter unit with a bigger engine. It seems there’s a trend happening at Mercedes.

Dual-Pillar Approach

Going forward, the German automaker is committed to a dual-pillar development setup. EV research and development is expected to rapidly expand over the next few years, all while gas and hybrid development also continues. In theory, Mercedes should satisfy all customers.

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We’ll have to hold our breath for this updated C63, said to be coming in 2026. As recently as February, Mercedes execs shot down rumors that the four-cylinder hybrid setup was headed out the AMG door. It’s possible a decision hadn’t been made back then, and things have changed now. It seems clear, though, that due to emissions regulations, the hybrid four-pot isn’t long for this world.

Source: Autocar