The announcement signals a notable change for AMG, which had previously focused on smaller hybrid-assisted engines as part of its performance future. AMG CEO Michael Scheibe acknowledged that customers still strongly associate the brand with traditional V8 performance, especially in higher-end models.
Earlier this decade, AMG introduced several plug-in hybrid models powered by four-cylinder engines, including the latest C63. Those vehicles were presented as the next step for the brand while complying with tightening emissions regulations. Yet demand did not reach the company’s expectations, as many buyers continued to favor larger-displacement engines and the driving character associated with them.
Scheibe said that AMG is now “doubling down on internal combustion engine cars again,” with future offerings expected to include a broader mix of inline-six and V8-powered vehicles. The executive also confirmed that the era of V8-powered C-Class AMG models is effectively over, with the new eight-cylinder engine reserved for larger and more expensive vehicles.
New V8 Engine To Debut in SUVs Before Reaching Cars
According to Car Magazine, the new AMG V8 will first appear in SUVs later this year before making its way into passenger cars. AMG has not released detailed technical specifications for the engine, although Scheibe stated that it will produce more power than current applications of the company’s existing V8 units.
The engine is believed to be related to the twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter flat-plane crank V8 already used in updated versions of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and GLS. In those models, the engine delivers 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque.
AMG variants are expected to receive higher-output versions of the powertrain, internally referred to as the “M177 Evo.” Motor1 reported that the upcoming GT-based Black Series is likely to use the new V8 configuration. The publication also cited rumors surrounding a future Mythos-series special edition based on the CLE Coupe, which could produce 646 horsepower from the combustion engine alone.
The possibility of an E63 returning to compete with models such as the BMW M5 and Audi RS6 was also mentioned in the report, although AMG did not officially confirm the model.
AMG Reassesses Four-Cylinder Hybrid Strategy
Mercedes-AMG has not yet decided whether its plug-in hybrid four-cylinder setup will remain part of future high-performance models. Scheibe admitted that hybrid systems introduce significant weight because of batteries and associated components.
“If you want a lightweight car, sometimes it’s best to have a V8-only car,” Scheibe told Car Magazine while discussing the balance between performance and electrification.
That does not mean AMG plans to abandon plug-in hybrids entirely. Models such as the GLE 53 and E53 will continue to play a role in the lineup, particularly in markets with stricter emissions regulations, including Europe. Scheibe described these vehicles as a “good compromise” under current regulatory conditions.
The discussion reflects the broader challenge faced by European performance brands as emissions standards become increasingly restrictive while customer expectations remain closely tied to traditional engine configurations.
Inline-Six Engines Will Play a Larger Role in AMG’s Future Lineup
While V8 engines are returning to selected high-end models, AMG also confirmed plans for additional six-cylinder vehicles. Scheibe stated that the updated C-Class will receive an AMG version powered by a “free-revving” six-cylinder engine.
The move follows the introduction of the GLC 53, which effectively replaced both the previous 43 and 63 variants with an inline-six setup. The “M256M” engine used in that model produces 443 horsepower and 443 lb-ft (600 Nm) of torque, along with an overboost function temporarily increasing torque to 472 lb-ft (640 Nm) for 10 seconds.
AMG’s future range will include inline-six engines, V8s, and even a V12 in the Maybach S-Class. The 6.0-liter V12, however, will remain limited to regions with less restrictive CO₂ regulations.
The publication also noted that AMG claims it has managed to continue developing large-displacement engines while complying with upcoming Euro 7 emissions standards. At the same time, the European Union’s target of reducing fleet-wide emissions by 90 percent by 2035 compared with 2021 levels continues to place increasing pressure on combustion-engine vehicles across the industry.
