Mercedes-AMG is revisiting the idea of outfitting the upcoming CLE63 with a twin-turbo V8 engine, responding to customer preferences over hybrid powertrains.
Mercedes-AMG is revisiting the idea of outfitting the upcoming CLE63 with a twin-turbo V8 engine, responding to customer preferences over hybrid powertrains.
For enthusiasts, the distinctive V8 rumble of Mercedes-AMG cars has long been a defining characteristic. However, recent models like the C 63 and E 63, equipped with four-cylinder PHEV powertrains, have faced criticism for their weight and diminished thrills. Autocar reports that AMG is now considering a return to its V8 roots for the forthcoming AMG CLE 63.
Customer dissatisfaction with the current lineup, evidenced by decreased sales of the latest C 63 and E 63, is a driving force behind AMG’s potential shift. Dealers have reportedly expressed concerns that customers may be perplexed by the idea of a four-cylinder CLE63 alongside its six-cylinder counterpart, the CLE53. This feedback suggests a disconnect between consumer expectations and the hybrid direction AMG had pursued.
According to Autocar, senior officials within Mercedes-Benz indicate that the AMG CLE 63 could adopt a twin-turbo V8 powerplant. This V8, utilizing mild hybrid technology, is expected to produce 577 horsepower, marking a departure from the current four-cylinder hybrid setup with 671 horsepower. The move aligns with AMG’s aim to position the CLE63 as a direct competitor to rivals like the BMW M4.
The potential switch to V8 power prompts discussions about AMG’s identity and customer preferences. While some view it as a concession to market demand, others see it as a return to the brand’s essence. Markus Schäfer of Mercedes-Benz R&D suggests that ultimately, customer choice will dictate AMG’s future engine strategies, reflecting a balance between tradition and innovation.
Despite rumors and signals from insiders, Mercedes-AMG has not officially confirmed the shift back to V8 engines for the CLE63. However, if realized, this decision signifies a significant pivot in response to consumer demand, potentially reshaping the landscape of high-performance luxury vehicles and reaffirming the enduring appeal of V8 power in the face of hybrid alternatives.
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