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Mercedes confirms several AMG models will be dropped in 2026
Mercedes-Benz product management in Germany has quietly outlined a significant shake-up of the AMG range: production of several AMG models will cease next year. The most notable casualties are the four-cylinder C 63 and its mechanically related SUV sibling, the GLC 63, both slated to exit production in May 2026.
Which models leave and when
According to an internal memo disclosed to German site Elektroauto News, Mercedes will also end production of the C 43 and GLC 43 in February 2026. The GLA 35 — a standard engine with AMG upgrades — will be discontinued at the same time. Curiously, the sportier GLA 45 will continue production without interruption.
- February 2026: C 43, GLC 43, GLA 35
- May 2026: C 63 (four-cylinder), GLC 63 (four-cylinder)
What comes next for the C 63?
Dealers are expected to receive guidance on successor vehicles soon. Mattias Geisen, Mercedes board member for sales and marketing, has hinted that the next C 63 will move back to an inline-six configuration. He did not confirm whether that six-cylinder will be an entirely new unit or the existing M256 I6 upgraded by AMG.
For context, the M256 is a single-turbo inline-six with an electric auxiliary compressor (an "e-booster") that spins up to around 70,000 rpm to reduce turbo lag. In the U.S.-market 2026 Mercedes-AMG E 53 PHEV the M256 produces 443 hp and 413 lb-ft (560 Nm) on its own; combined with the permanently excited synchronous motor the system is rated at 577 hp and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm), with a temporary 604 hp available via launch control. That E 53 plug-in hybrid achieves 0-60 mph in about 3.7 seconds, delivering strong performance along with a notably richer inline-six sound compared with the four-cylinder hybrids.
Why the change matters
The outgoing C 63 S E Performance made headlines as one of the most extreme four-cylinder-based hybrids, but customer tastes and regulatory pressures are nudging Mercedes toward different mechanical solutions. The inline-six offers smoother sound, improved character and packaging advantages for mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid permutations. For AMG buyers who value engine tone and torque delivery, the six-cylinder could be a welcome return.
“A six-pot lump is on the menu for the next phase of the C 63,” Geisen told the company — a hint at AMG’s next performance direction.
Where the SL 43 and range-topping SL variants fit in
The internal memo did not mention the SL 43, leaving its future unclear. The SL 43 remains the only rear-wheel-drive SL and is priced at around $112,550 before taxes, offering 416 hp and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) — figures that some observers find modest for the cost. However, its fabric roof that folds in around 15 seconds at speeds up to 60 km/h (37 mph) helps justify its appeal.
At the other extreme, the SL range includes a plug-in hybrid twin-turbo V8 option advertised with an enormous 805 hp and 1,047 lb-ft (1,420 Nm). Given the SL’s curb weight of approximately 4,839 lb (2,195 kg), those headline numbers are less excessive in practice and underline Mercedes’ strategy of offering wildly different performance personalities under the same model name.
Quick takeaways
- The four-cylinder C 63 and GLC 63 end production in May 2026.
- Several 43-badged models and the GLA 35 stop in February 2026.
- Mercedes is likely shifting the C 63 back to an inline-six (possibly M256-based).
- SL 43’s fate remains uncertain while hybrid and V8 SL variants continue to showcase range diversity.
These changes mark a pivotal moment for Mercedes-AMG as it reshapes powertrain strategy amid stricter emissions rules and evolving buyer preferences. Enthusiasts should expect a blend of electrified performance and a renewed focus on the sonic and torque benefits of inline-six engines in AMG’s next chapter.
Source: autoevolution
Comments
mechbyte
Is this even true? Dropping the 4‑cyl C63 sounds wild — but will the I6 be real or just another hybrid compromise, heavier and bland?
v8rider
Wow, C63 going back to an I6? finally some proper tone, hope AMG doesnt neuter it with too much electrics. curious to see dealer guidance..
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