Mercedes-AMG Reportedly Set to Bring back V8 Power Very Soon

Days after revealing it was working on a new V8 engine, Mercedes-AMG is reportedly set to install it in multiple future models.

When the latest version of the Mercedes-AMG C63 debuted, it did so with a very controversial change – instead of the traditional V8 that fans have come to expect, that particular model switched over to a turbocharged four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain. While it certainly generates impressive power, that four banger just didn’t evoke the same sort of passion among fans of sporty sedans, which isn’t terribly surprising. However, it now seems as if Mercedes-AMG is set to right that proverbial wrong very soon.

According to a new report from Autocar, Mercedes-AMG is currently developing a brand new V8 that will land in a variety of future models – including the C63, as well as the CLE 63. Perhaps even more interesting is the fact that while this new powerplant is reportedly based on the existing twin turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, it will switch over from a cross-plane crank to a flat-plane crank design, just like the AMG GT Black Series.

Aside from generating some seriously amazing sounds, such a change also helps reduce the packaging size of that V8 powerplant, which would enable Mercedes-AMG to stuff it in vehicles that weren’t designed to hold that type of engine in the first place. On top of that, the brand is reportedly going to add a hybrid system to this new engine, which would help out in terms of efficiency and perhaps give it an even bigger power boost.

This new report comes mere days after Mercedes told a small group of investors that it was indeed developing a “next-generation, high-tech electrified V8,” lending a bit more credibility to the notion. Thus far, the company hasn’t confirmed what models this new powerplant is destined for, but it’s a rather startling turn of events for an outfit that was previously dedicated to the notion of going all-electric in the coming years, and slashing emissions in the interim with downsized powerplants.

Of course, a lot has changed since then. EV sales haven’t quite taken off as previously expected, and in Europe, those models actually retracted in terms of market share in 2024. Throw in the current geopolitical situation that’s a bit unfriendly to EVs in general – plus an uncertain future for zero-emissions mandates in the UK and Europe – and it seems as if the good old fashioned V8 may not be dead yet, after all.

Photos: Mercedes-AMG

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Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.
Foote has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles and every other type of automobile, Foote had spent several years running parts for local dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.