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AMG's next V8 flagship caught testing
Mercedes-AMG's upcoming CLE 63 Coupe has been photographed undergoing winter testing, and the prototype offers clear clues that a potent V8 variant is on the way. Positioned to replace both the C-Class Coupe and the E-Class Coupe, the CLE line is preparing a mid-cycle update that adds more muscular performance and fresh styling details — including the controversial starry lighting signature Mercedes has been rolling out across its range.
What the spy shots reveal
The test mule wears heavy camouflage but the AMG DNA is unmistakable: a Panamericana grille announces the model’s performance intent, while a pronounced lower intake and aggressive wheel arches recall the six-cylinder CLE 53. The prototype appears to be riding on CLE 53-style wheels, but the overall stance and some subtle bodywork changes point to a higher-tune model. A limited-run Mythos variant — rumored to feature a massive rear wing and exaggerated fenders — will sit above this CLE 63, which looks set to adopt a more restrained, road-focused aesthetic.
Starry headlights and new light signatures
One of the most eye-catching details is the front lighting. The CLE 63 test car carries the new three-pointed star motif in its headlamps, a design element already seen on the latest CLA and the first EQ Technology GLC. Mercedes and AMG seem committed to this starry signature despite mixed reactions. It’s likely the production CLE 63 will also receive matching taillight graphics, although the prototype here does not yet show the rear stars. The current rear bumper and quad exhaust tips mimic the CLE 53’s layout, but AMG is expected to rework both items once the V8 powertrain is finalized.
Under the hood: the M177 Evo V8
The headline is the engine. Mercedes introduced an evolved M177 V8 — commonly called the M177 Evo — in the S 580 4MATIC for the 2027 model year. This unit swaps to a flat-plane crank, which alters the firing order and helps reduce rotating mass compared with the older cross-plane M177. Paired with a 48-volt electrical architecture and a new integrated starter generator, the result is an engine that revs faster and to higher RPMs, with a quicker warm-up that helps cut particulate emissions on cold starts — an important advantage given Euro 7 requirements.
Technical upgrades include optimized intake and exhaust ports for better flow velocity, a cam profile tuned for lean-burn cycles, a revised fuel injection system, additional acoustic insulation around the heads, and new engine mounts to improve NVH. In its S-Class application the M177 Evo produces about 530 hp and roughly 533 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque. Expect the CLE 63 to receive a similar output tune, significantly above the AMG-enhanced inline-six of the CLE 53.
Performance context and rivals
That power figure puts Mercedes squarely against BMW’s M4 Competition xDrive, which currently develops around 523 hp and 479 lb-ft (650 Nm). BMW is also preparing mild-hybrid upgrades for future M models, so AMG’s flat-plane V8 is a timely response to keep the CLE 63 competitive in the high-performance coupe segment.
Interior tech and usability
Mercedes is listening to buyer feedback after criticism of the pre-facelift CLE’s reliance on touch-only controls. The refreshed CLE is expected to reintroduce more physical switches, including tactile controls on the steering wheel. The bigger update will be the move to fourth-generation MBUX running MB.OS, with optional Superscreen layouts. The new software brings generative AI assistance and a predictive zero-layer interface that surfaces the most-used functions based on driver habits and time of day — a neat usability boost for daily driving.
Other potential options may include luxury items trickled down from the S-Class range, such as heated seatbelts, depending on market and equipment packages.
Quick highlights
- Panamericana grille and sporty AMG styling
- Flat-plane M177 Evo V8 with ~530 hp
- Starry headlight signature; possible starry taillights
- MBUX 4th gen with MB.OS, Superscreen, and generative AI
As Mercedes-AMG hones the CLE 63 for a 2027 model year lineup, the car looks set to blend high-revving V8 drama with updated interior tech and more user-friendly controls. Enthusiasts will be watching closely for official power numbers, chassis tuning, and whether the Mythos edition lives up to the show-car theatrics. For now, these spy photos offer the clearest sign yet that AMG intends to keep the coupe fight hot — and loud.
Source: autoevolution
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