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For years, the Mercedes-AMG C63 stood as an icon of brute power, unfiltered performance, and that unmistakable V8 growl. However, when AMG decided to replace the legendary 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with a turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid in the latest C63 S E Performance, it sparked controversy among enthusiasts.

Now, reports suggest that AMG might be reversing course. By 2026, we could see the return of a V8 in the C63, marking a dramatic shift in response to customer demand.

But is it official?

Not yet. While AMG has confirmed the development of a new V8, the company has not explicitly stated whether it will make its way into the C63. Still, the rumours are gaining traction.

A V8 Revival: What We Know So Far

According to industry insiders, Mercedes-AMG is planning to reintroduce a V8 into the C-Class line-up by 2026. While this remains unconfirmed, it aligns with AMG’s recent acknowledgement that they are developing an electrified V8—likely a hybridised version of their 4.0-litre twin-turbo unit.

The current four-cylinder plug-in hybrid setup in the C63 produces 671 bhp, but despite its impressive numbers, many enthusiasts feel that it lacks the soul and character of the previous V8 models.

Technical Expectations: What Kind of V8 Are We Getting?

If the rumours hold true, the new electrified V8 will be an evolution of AMG’s existing 4.0-litre engine but with some key enhancements:

• 🔹 Flat-plane crankshaft – Sharper throttle response, higher revs, and a more aggressive sound.
• 🔹 Hybrid assistance – Likely integrating a mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid system to boost efficiency and power delivery.
• 🔹 Higher redline – Compared to the previous cross-plane V8, offering a sportier driving experience.
• 🔹 Weight management – Potential for lighter materials to offset the weight of hybrid components.

Competition: How Are Other Brands Handling Performance Engines?

While AMG is contemplating a return to V8 power, how are their rivals handling performance engines in this electrified era?

• 🔹 BMW M3 / M4 – BMW has stuck with its 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six in the M3 and M4, offering both RWD and AWD models with up to 503 bhp in the Competition variants.
• 🔹 Audi RS5 – Audi transitioned to a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6, prioritising weight savings and efficiency. However, they have yet to introduce a hybrid version.
• 🔹 Lexus IS 500 F Sport – Lexus remains one of the last brands offering a naturally aspirated V8 in the IS 500, making it a unique competitor for purists.
• 🔹 Porsche Panamera / Taycan – Porsche has gone all-in on electrification, with the Taycan leading the charge. However, the Panamera still offers V8 hybrid options, proving that hybrid tech can coexist with high-performance combustion engines.

The CLE63 Gets It First

Before the C63, the upcoming Mercedes-AMG CLE63 is expected to debut the new electrified V8. This could serve as AMG’s testing ground before rolling it out in other models, including the C-Class.

Will the V8 Make a Comeback in the C63?

At this stage, nothing is official, but the evidence suggests that AMG is listening to its enthusiast community and considering a return to V8 power. If this happens, it could represent a compromise between electrification and raw performance—bringing back what fans love while keeping up with modern regulations.

For now, we wait. But if you're a fan of the roaring, high-performance V8 Mercedes-AMG, the future just got a lot more exciting.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Should AMG bring back the V8, or should they stick with hybrid power? Drop a comment below!