Mercedes-Benz Working on New, Electrified V8
Just a few days ago, Mercedes-Benz announced its biggest ever product and tech launch campaign with dozens of new or refreshed models by the end of 2027. It will all start this year with the next-generation CLA, which we’ve previously reported about.
That car will offer both a fully electric variant and a more conventional one featuring a 48V electrified high-tech four-cylinder engine paired to an electrified dual-clutch transmission.
- Also: 2024 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance: 671 Horsepower, No V8
- Also: Mercedes-Benz Might Keep V8 Alive Past 2030
More importantly for performance enthusiasts, Mercedes-Benz also said it is working on a next-generation, electrified V8 engine—a clear sign that the company is now more concerned about meeting the needs of customers in various markets than forcing new technologies down their throats.
As you know, the new Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance has been criticized by many for replacing its twin-turbocharged V8 with a hybrid system built around a four-cylinder engine. No matter how powerful the latter is (up to 671 horsepower), the sounds and thrills just aren’t the same.
Mercedes-Benz confirmed the upcoming AMG CLE 63 coupe (the top-performing model in the new CLE Class) will feature a significantly revised, twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 with mild hybrid technology providing extra power in key situations and slightly better fuel efficiency overall. It did not specifically mentioned the C 63 sedan, but we’re counting on it to follow suit.
Other V8 engines in the lineup, from the Mercedes-AMG GT to the iconic G-Class, are not going out anytime soon. Speaking of the G-Class, Mercedes-Benz is still planning to introduce a smaller variant—a baby G-Wagen if you want to call it that—by 2027. However, details about the vehicle including the chassis and powertrain largely remain a mystery at this point.
In related news, we’ve learned that the S-Class flagship sedan will receive a major upgrade and retain its twin-turbo V12 engine in the process (in top-line Maybach S 680 trim). Mercedes-Benz is the only German automaker that continues to offer a 12-cylinder mill.
