by AMG returns to its roots: V8 and emotions instead of hybrids
For decades, AMG built cars with larger engines than the rest of the Mercedes lineup. They were like German muscle cars with the same audacious character, but everything changed. Under pressure from strict environmental regulations, Mercedes-AMG developed an innovative four-cylinder turbo hybrid as a replacement for the powerful V8. Now the company is changing course, and the V8s are returning.
New strategy: more AMG than ever
AMG head Michael Schiebe stated in an interview with Auto Express that the brand will become “more AMG than ever,” focusing not only on performance but also on “emotions and design.” In a separate conversation with CAR Magazine, Schiebe confirmed that “at the end of the year, you will see the return of the V8 in AMG,” first in SUVs and then in other models.
“At the end of the year, you will see the return of the V8 in AMG”
This likely refers to future versions of models such as the Mercedes-AMG C63, which was once the flagship of AMG, as well as premium offerings designed to compete with the BMW M5. This is not just the old engine. AMG developed a new V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft that meets modern environmental standards. Although such a design typically loses the traditional AMG “growl,” engineers tuned it to the camshaft to preserve the powerful sound that buyers expect.
The four-cylinder hybrid is becoming a thing of the past
At the same time, the controversial four-cylinder plug-in hybrid is gradually being phased out of the models where it was most important. It is being replaced by a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, already used in the Mercedes-AMG GLC 53. It produces about 442 hp (329 kW) and, more importantly, according to Schiebe, has a “much more emotional sound.” This engine will replace the plug-in hybrid system in the C63, which is a clear signal of a change in AMG strategy.
Electrification is not canceled, but it is changing
Meanwhile, plug-in hybrids are not disappearing entirely. They will remain in the GLE 53 and E53 models, and Mercedes-AMG will continue innovations in the electrified direction. Additionally, the company is betting on electric vehicles, particularly the future AMG GT four-door coupe, which will have over 1,000 horsepower. Former Mercedes technical director Markus Schäfer noted that this car will offer an “emotional experience… from an acoustic perspective.”
“Emotional experience… from an acoustic perspective”
This seems to be an attempt to add individuality to a segment where quiet acceleration has become the norm. In other words, Mercedes and AMG are ready to demonstrate their engineering prowess by creating fast electric vehicles that sound like V8s, alongside real V8s. It remains to be seen how this will affect sales figures.
This move by AMG is indicative of the entire automotive industry. It shows that even the largest manufacturers are forced to respond to market demands, which are not ready to sacrifice the emotional component for the sake of environmental friendliness. The return to the V8 and the emphasis on engine sound indicate that for many buyers, a car is not just a means of transportation but a source of pleasure. At the same time, the development of electric vehicles with “emotional sound” shows that AMG is trying to find a balance between tradition and the future without losing its DNA. Whether this strategy will be successful remains to be seen, but it is already clear that the brand has listened to its fans.
