Mercedes-AMG Rethinks Its 4-Cylinder PHEV Performance Approach
"Mercedes-AMG is dropping its hybrid four-cylinder powertrain after it failed to connect with buyers."
Earlier this month, reports surfaced that the upcoming C-Class facelift will retire the debated hybrid inline four-cylinder engine in AMG models, replacing it with larger powertrains. This was recently confirmed by an anonymous source speaking to HARJA during the unveiling of the all-electric Mercedes-AMG Concept AMG GT XX. According to the source, AMG plans to phase out the unpopular compact hybrid engine in favor of either an inline six-cylinder or a new V8 setup within the next few years.
Small Engine Misses the Mark
“From a technical standpoint, the four-cylinder hybrid is one of the most advanced drivetrains available in any production car, and its performance is impressive,” the anonymous source told HARJA. “However, it simply didn’t connect with our core customer base. We’ve acknowledged that.”
In the Mercedes-AMG C63, this powertrain delivers a remarkable 671 horsepower and 752 lb-ft of torque — an exceptional output for a four-cylinder engine. Coupled with its all-wheel-drive system, the car can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds.
Too Heavy and Complex, Lacking Soul
Critics have pointed out that this powertrain lacks the distinctive character found in AMG’s traditional inline-six and V8 engines — a trait customers clearly noticed and now miss. Additionally, the setup adds extra weight and complexity as Mercedes tries to strike a balance between efficiency and performance. On top of that, new reports reveal that meeting Europe’s stricter emissions standards would require a costly redesign to keep this engine in production. Given these factors, Mercedes-AMG appears to be abandoning the four-cylinder hybrid in favor of its proven hybrid inline-six or an all-new V8.
What’s Next on the Horizon?
One potential powertrain replacement is a new plug-in hybrid featuring a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, similar to those powering the E53, GLE 53, and CLE 53 models. Additionally, rumors suggest that the refreshed AMG C63 might receive a mild-hybrid twin-turbo V8, which is already expected in the upcoming CLE 63. Either option would likely address customer complaints about the current four-cylinder’s lack of character and excitement. HARJA also notes that the SL43 model is set to upgrade from its small 2.0-liter engine to a larger unit, signaling a clear shift in Mercedes’ powertrain strategy.
A Dual-Pillar Strategy
Looking ahead, Mercedes is embracing a dual-pillar approach: aggressively expanding electric vehicle research and development while continuing to refine gas and hybrid powertrains. This strategy aims to cater to a wide range of customers, ensuring there’s something for everyone as the automotive landscape evolves.
“AMG and Mercedes are collaborating on a completely new V8 engine designed to meet future emissions standards. The lineup will continue to include six- and eight-cylinder engines, all enhanced with electrification technologies—either 48-volt mild hybrids or full hybrid systems.”
– Mercedes-Benz CTO Markus Schäfer, per HARJA
We’ll have to wait and see what the updated C63, expected in 2026, brings. Just a few months ago in February, Mercedes executives denied rumors that the four-cylinder hybrid powertrain was being phased out of AMG models. It’s possible no final decision had been made at that time, but now the situation seems to have shifted. Given tightening emissions regulations, it appears the hybrid four-cylinder won’t be around for much longer.
