Mercedes-Benz considers V8 comeback: report

A REPORT published by German outlet mercedes-fans.de claims it has information from two sources deep within the brand who say it is considering reinstating the V8 engine beneath the bonnet of C- and E-Class models, despite a considerable investment in the powerful four-pot unit.

According to the report, a newly developed V8 engine with mild hybrid assistance will be offered alongside the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder plug-in hybrid petrol and the E53’s turbo-petrol six.

The outlet says a general feeling around Mercedes-Benz was that although four-cylinder power had been good for the environment, it had been very bad for the atmosphere in the AMG paddock.

It also cited stiffening competition from Audi and BMW as the rationale behind the V8 backflip.

“The sales figures for the Mercedes-AMG C63 E Performance are said to be anything but good,” the report said.

“With the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, the new C63 has obviously had little success in reaching AMG customers. Insiders report that AMG is bringing the V8, previously banned for the C- and E-Class, back under the hood.

“The 4.0-litre twin-turbo engine is reportedly set to return to power in 2026.”

mercedes-fans.de did not say who at Mercedes-Benz had leaked the information but did say the inbound V8 engine is currently being modified to meet stricter upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations, suggesting it may be offered in tandem with a rear-axle electric motor arrangement like that found in the current S63.

It is unclear as to whether the alleged decision to reinstate the V8 engine has any bearing on future SUV models, including the GLC or GLE, with the article centred entirely around Mercedes-AMG’s high-performance sedan and wagon range.

Mercedes-Benz made the decision to retire its 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine in early 2021, with mid-2022 C63 models the first to feature the German brand’s “most powerful ever four-cylinder engine”.

Locally, the M139-series electrified ‘four’ in the current-gen C63 provides 300kW and 500Nm. It is said to achieve a 0-100km/h time of 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h. Combined cycle fuel consumption is listed at 9.1 litres per 100km.

The unit drives all four wheels continually via a nine-speed automatic transmission.

By way of contrast, the superseded M177-series twin-turbo V8 from the previous generation C63 developed 375kW and 700Nm which was sent to the rear wheels through a nine-speed auto. Standing start to 100km/h times were advertised at 3.9 seconds and v-max at 290km/h.

Fuel consumption on the ADR Combined cycle was listed at 10.3L/100km.

Mercedes-Benz said it would not comment on speculation surrounding future business plans.