AMG’s Bold Move: Embracing the Four-Cylinder C 63 Amidst Skepticism and Gaining New Customers

AMG: Appreciating the Four-Cylinder in the C 63 Takes Time

AMG Chief Michael Schiebe notes the brand has attracted new clientele

In a bold move, AMG has slashed the number of cylinders in the C 63 by half, bidding farewell to the robust V8 and making room for a four-cylinder engine. The switch to the new 2.0-liter turbo engine has sparked significant backlash due to its significant downsize. The addition of a plug-in hybrid system has also drawn criticism, as it contributes to the vehicle's hefty 2.1-ton weight.

The transition from the venerable M177 in Affalterbach to the smaller M139l is therefore met with little enthusiasm. However, the head of AMG is optimistic that we will (eventually) take a liking to the four-cylinder engine.

Photo Exhibit: 2023 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance

In a discussion with Autocar, the head of Mercedes' performance division mentioned that "some customers require time to warm up to the technology." The longitudinally mounted engine, essentially an enhanced variant of the transverse engine from the "45" compact car, has attracted new customers, according to Michael Schiebe. He characterizes AMG as a brand that's synonymous with technology, which doesn't necessarily mean that every car should have a large V8 engine.

The executive suggests maintaining an open attitude towards technology. The 2.0-liter plug-in hybrid engine is available not just in the C 63 Sedan and Estate models but also powers the GLC 63 and the GLC 63 Coupe. Furthermore, Mercedes-AMG has incorporated a version of the four-cylinder gasoline engine into the GT 43 and SL 43, although these models do not feature plug-in hybrid capabilities.

Last year, Schiebe dismissed speculations about a potential comeback of the V8 engine for the C 63 model. The eight-cylinder is not slated for a return under the hood of either the C 63 or the larger E 63. While the latter has yet to launch in its latest generation, expectations point towards the integration of a plug-in hybrid system accompanied by an inline-six engine. Considering the smaller E 53 already possesses a six-cylinder, it would be unusual for the top-tier model to feature a lesser combustion engine.

Autocar inquired with Schiebe about the engine selection for the CLE 63. Without disclosing specifics, the head of AMG asserted that they made "the right choice" and that everyone will be "thrilled" when it hits the market. According to unverified claims, the CLE 63 was initially supposed to have just four cylinders, but it seems that a larger gasoline engine is now in the works.

The debate started with the C 63, and AMG could have lessened the contentiousness if the car had become lighter after ditching the larger engine. However, at 2,111 kilograms, it's nearly 400 kilograms heavier than its predecessor due to the added hybrid components.

During a discussion with Top Gear last year, Schiebe mentioned that AMG is committed to its electrified four-cylinder engine because of its highly advanced nature and the company's belief in the potential of performance hybrids. It's also worth noting that the high-end S 63 is a sporty plug-in hybrid, just like the premier versions of the GT Coupe, the GT 4-Door Coupe, and the SL. Presently, the starting price for the C 63 S E PERFORMANCE sedan in Germany is precisely 115,174.15 euros.

Source: Autocar

Most Read

MOST RECENT ARTICLES

Most Recent Articles

About this Article