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Mercedes-AMG C 63 Finally Drops the Electrified 2.0L — What Comes Next?
Mercedes-AMG's newest C 63 generation stirred controversy when the marque replaced the traditional V8 with a plug-in hybrid 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. After criticism from enthusiasts, recent confirmations indicate AMG is moving away from the electrified four-banger for the next update — but not back to a V8. Instead, the C 63 appears set to receive a straight-six powerplant, restoring a more conventional performance-engine character while keeping packaging and efficiency improvements in mind.
Official Word and Powertrain Direction
In a conversation with AutoExpress, Mattias Geisen, Mercedes-Benz’s board member responsible for sales and marketing, said AMG will offer six-cylinder variants where four-cylinder units are currently used. He also left open whether those sixes will be paired with hybrid assistance or remain pure internal-combustion engines, saying the company will decide as development progresses. That admission is the clearest sign yet that Affalterbach is responding to feedback from customers and the enthusiast community.
Where the inline-six might come from
AMG already uses a 3.0-liter mild-hybrid straight-six across several models. For reference, the CLE 53 employs that engine with mild-hybrid support and develops 442 hp, while the E 53 in some configurations combines the six with additional electrification to produce as much as 603 hp — close to the level of AMG's former V8-powered E 63 S. It’s likely the new C 63 will draw from these existing six-cylinder families, tuned for the chassis and weight balance of the compact performance sedan.
Specifications and Performance Expectations
Current C 63 S E Performance specs provide a benchmark: a 2.0-liter turbo-four combined with a rear-mounted electric motor and a 6.1 kWh battery for a claimed 670 hp and 752 lb-ft (1,020 Nm) total, 0–62 mph in about 3.4 seconds and a top speed near 174 mph (280 km/h). A switch to an inline-six likely means a different performance and torque curve — more linear torque delivery, stronger midrange and a more satisfying engine note — while peak horsepower could be tuned to sit below, match, or even exceed the current PHEV output depending on whether AMG keeps hybrid assistance.
Design and Packaging Considerations
Fitting a straight-six into the C-Class packaging is less intrusive than shoehorning a V8 into a modern compact engine bay, which explains why AMG is taking the six-cylinder route rather than reverting to an eight. The straight-six architecture also simplifies integration with mild-hybrid systems and exhaust layouts, enabling engineers to balance weight distribution and driving dynamics without the compromises associated with bulky V8 installations.
Market Positioning and Pricing
The 2025 Mercedes-AMG C 63 currently starts at $86,050 in the U.S. market. For context, the BMW M3 sedan’s range-topper, the M3 Competition xDrive, starts at $87,700, with the M3 Competition from $82,600 and the base M3 around $78,400. AMG’s move toward a straight-six could sharpen the C 63’s appeal to buyers who prioritize authentic engine character and linear performance, while AMG will have to balance output, fuel economy, and price to keep the C 63 competitive against the BMW M lineup.
Comparison: AMG C 63 vs BMW M3
A straight-six C 63 would match the BMW M3’s tradition of robust six-cylinder performance, narrowing the experiential gap between rivals. Key comparison points will include horsepower and torque figures, transmission calibration, chassis tuning, weight, and whether AMG chooses to retain hybrid systems for extra thrust and efficiency. If AMG tunes the six for a visceral sound and sharp throttle response, the C 63 could regain credibility among purists while still offering modern hybrid benefits if required.
Conclusion
Switching from a plug-in hybrid 2.0L four to an inline-six is a strategic compromise: it restores engine character and packaging practicality without the complexity of a return to a V8. Whether AMG pairs the six with hybrid assistance or keeps it as a pure internal-combustion unit will determine how competitive the updated C 63 will be versus the BMW M3 and other rivals. Enthusiasts should watch for official specs and driving impressions when Mercedes-AMG reveals the final configuration.
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