Changes in the AMG Engine Lineup
Mercedes-AMG’s decision to downsize engines in models like the C 43 and C 63 did not find warm support among buyers. However, the situation is beginning to change. The current C 43 and GLC 43 are to be replaced by six-cylinder models with the “53” index, and there are also rumors that the flagship C 63 may bring back the V8 engine.
New C53 Replaces C43
It is important to clarify. Some publications reported that the new C 53 would specifically replace the C 63 model, citing comments from AMG’s interim head Michael Schiebe. However, such an interpretation contradicts the logic of Mercedes’ product positioning. Replacing the C 63 with a C 53 would be a radical step, similar to BMW replacing the M3 with an M340 model.
Schiebe stated that AMG will “replace our four-cylinder engine” with an inline six and that “this engine will also appear in the C-Class.” He added: “This means we will also have a C 53 in our portfolio. We are taking the internal combustion engine from the CLE 53. Not a hybrid engine, a pure inline six-cylinder.”
However, the current C 63 is not the only model with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The same engine is used in the C 43, and Schiebe’s comments most likely referred specifically to this model.
The German publication Auto Motor und Sport, which also interviewed Schiebe, presents a different version. According to their report, the new C 53 is intended to replace the C 43, not the C 63, which fits more logically into the existing AMG lineup.
Decision on Replacement
Schiebe acknowledged that AMG expected broader acceptance of their high-revving 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While this engine works well in compact models like the A 45 and CLA 45, it was not as convincing in larger cars. Consequently, the current “43” variants will be discontinued and replaced by “53” versions using the same 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine as the new CLE 53.
This inline six develops 443 hp and 560 Nm of torque, offering more than sufficient power for the future C 53 and GLC 53. These models will occupy a position below the more powerful E 53, which uses a plug-in hybrid version of the same engine to deliver 577 hp and 750 Nm.
We have seen that this engine in the CLE and E-Class is very inspiring for our fans. For the new models, we have made the engine even more responsive and also expanded the range between the individual driving modes. In other words, more comfort on one side and more emotion on the other.
In a conversation with another publication, Schiebe noted that adapting the four-cylinder engine to meet Euro 7 standards would be “quite complex,” which is precisely why “we will replace it with an inline six-cylinder engine.”
C 53 Development in Full Swing
Mercedes seems to already be deeply immersed in developing the future C 53, as a wagon prototype was spotted during testing. The test car uses the body of the updated model, which is expected to launch in 2027 as a 2028 model year vehicle, and it will debut with the inline six-cylinder engine. The prototype has an updated front end and revised rear lights.
Interestingly, BMW was testing a competing model almost simultaneously. Alongside the C 53 prototype, the next i3 EV or a new 3 Series sedan was spotted.
Future of the C 63 Model
This brings us to the future of the C 63, a model that has been under close scrutiny since its last redesign. The current version, equipped with a 2.0-liter plug-in hybrid four-cylinder engine, failed to gain popularity despite an impressive 671 hp and 1020 Nm of torque. The reaction was so lukewarm that many enthusiasts turned to the competitor—the BMW G80 M3.
Schiebe confirmed in an extended interview that the four-cylinder engine will be replaced with something more appealing. While early reports suggested the replacement could be an inline six from AMG, recent developments point to something bigger and better. An option with a V8 engine is now on the table.
Just last week, Mercedes unveiled its new 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft in the updated S-Class, confirming it is designed to meet Euro 7 standards. When asked about using this engine in AMG, Schiebe replied: “Yes, we have developed a V8 engine that meets the EU7 standard, and we will offer it in some series.”
Although Schiebe did not specify which “series” he meant, all signs point to the CLE 63 becoming the first AMG model to receive this engine. If this proves true, it would be entirely logical for the C 63 to follow the same path. The German publication also hinted at this, noting that the V8 “is also approaching, but Mercedes-AMG is keeping the details secret for now.”
John Halas contributed to this article.
These changes in the AMG engine lineup clearly demonstrate the manufacturer’s response to market feedback. The shift from forced four-cylinder hybrid systems to more traditional, yet modernized six- and eight-cylinder units indicates a search for balance between environmental requirements and customer expectations regarding engine character and sound. The success of this strategy will largely depend on whether the new engines can meet stringent emission standards without sacrificing the qualities that made AMG loved. Competition from BMW, which continues to successfully develop its inline six-cylinder engines, only intensifies this battle for the favor of car enthusiasts.