As four-cylinder engines and hybrid systems gradually replace the iconic V8s in AMG models, Mercedes-Benz remains confident that enthusiasts will eventually embrace this new technology, just as we adapted to smartphones without physical keyboards.
An inevitable transition to small-displacement hybrid engines
The new AMG models from Mercedes-Benz, now equipped with four-cylinder engines in combination with plug-in hybrid systems, still arouse reservations among purists. Accustomed to the roar of V8 engines, many AMG fans are skeptical about the downsizing of engines in iconic models such as the recent C63 and GLC63. However, Mercedes assures that this transition is comparable to that of mobile phones to smartphones, a technological evolution that has finally won everyone over.
Mercedes-Benz Australia boss Jaime Cohen made the comparison, noting that despite initial reservations, customers will gradually get used to the new engines. He said that “like smartphones without a physical keyboard, acceptance of four-cylinder hybrid engines will take time, but it will come.” The move is seen as inevitable as the market moves towards more efficient and environmentally friendly solutions.
Performance still at the heart of AMG DNA
The criticism of the new AMG engines is not without merit. Indeed, sales of the new C63 SE Performance and GLC63 SE Performance models have declined compared to their V8 predecessors. Fans lament the loss of the sonic character and raw feel offered by the old engines. However, Cohen remains confident that the performance is still there, which will eventually convince even the most skeptical.
The new GLC 63, for example, is equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor and a battery pack. This hybrid drive system develops a combined output of 500 kW (around 680 hp) and 1,020 Nm of torque, surpassing the 375 kW (510 hp) and 700 Nm of the previous V8. Despite this improvement in performance, some customers still have reservations, mainly due to the emotional attachment to the V8.
A necessary evolution for a more sustainable future
Mercedes-Benz is convinced that this transition to smaller and hybrid engines is a necessary step to adapt to modern demands for energy efficiency and reduced emissions. The new GLC 63, for example, reaches 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, 0.5 seconds faster than its predecessor, while reducing average fuel consumption from 12.2 l/100 km to 7.3 l/100 km. In addition, it offers a range of 14 km in all-electric mode, a strong argument in a context where regulations are becoming increasingly strict.
Cohen also pointed out that the auto industry has gone through similar transitions before, citing the example of automatic transmissions, which were met with similar resistance when they were first introduced. Today, most vehicles are equipped with automatic transmissions, proving that new technologies eventually gain traction because of their comfort and performance benefits.
The future of AMG: towards inevitable acceptance
For Mercedes-Benz, time and experience will play a role in the adoption of the new AMG engines. The automaker is relying on the idea that performance is what really matters to customers. If power and efficiency are there, as is the case with the new hybrid systems, customers will eventually accept and even adopt these technologies. Jaime Cohen compared this transition to the adoption of smartphones, noting that “even the most skeptical will eventually recognize the benefits of the new engines.”
AMG boss Michael Schiebe also defended the change, acknowledging that some customers might be slow to warm up to the new technology. He nonetheless stressed the importance of remaining open to innovation, stressing that the true AMG spirit lies in performance, regardless of engine form.
Towards an electrified future for AMG
Mercedes-Benzโs strategy for AMG is clear: to evolve towards hybrid and electric solutions while maintaining the brandโs essence of exceptional performance. The manufacturer is convinced that, despite the challenges, this transition is not only necessary but inevitable. Ultimately, the goal is to continue to offer vehicles that push the boundaries while adapting to modern environmental and regulatory requirements.
As the automotive industry moves toward an electrified future, AMG remains true to its commitment to performance, while innovating to meet the challenges of tomorrow. For purists, it may take some time to adapt, but Mercedes-Benz is confident that the new engines will eventually earn their place in the hearts of enthusiasts.