Mercedes-AMG reportedly set to revive V8 for next C63 and E63

The Mercedes-AMG community is not amused.

The most-powerful C-Class traded its V8 for a hybridised four last year, and the next top-of-the-line E-Class – due in 2024 – must make do with a PHEV straight-six.

That's not good enough vis-à-vis the BMW M3 (inline six) and the future M5 (V8 with battery assist), let alone the upcoming Audi RS5 and RS7 powered by a V6 hybrid good for up to 477kW.

Two independent sources say that the only escape route out of this dilemma is the reinstitution of the M177 Evo 4.0-litre V8 engine, which will return to the C- and E-Classes in 2026.

The eight-cylinder, which delivers 629kW in the AMG GT 63 S E-Performance 4-Door and 590kW in the not-for-Australia S63 E-Performance, is currently being modified to meet the strict new EU7 emission norm set to be enforced in 2025.

According to senior engineers directly involved in the matter, both models need only minor bodywork changes to accommodate the twin-turbo V8 powerplant, plus the battery pack, the electric motor, and auxiliary equipment.

Since the latest C- and E-Class are both under evaluation for a life-cycle extension beyond 2028, the hardcore AMG versions may remain in production well into the next decade.

Watch Alex Inwood's review of the new 2023 Mercedes-Benz C63 S below, or check out the written review here.