Mercedes-AMG to dump four-pot PHEV

Mercedes-AMG will begin phasing out the controversial four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain it introduced on the C 63 sedan and GLC 63 SUV because of slow sales among its traditional customers.

Speaking to Autocar, a senior Benz source confirmed the plug-in 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol-electric powertrain that produced 500kW and an almighty 1020Nm under the bonnet of the C 63 will be replaced by either an uprated version of its 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder or an all-new V8.

“Technically, the four-cylinder is one of the most advanced drivetrains available in a production car,” said the source. “It’s also right up there on performance. But despite this, it failed to resonate with our traditional customers. We’ve recognised that.”

The insider didn't disclose when the four-cylinder PHEV would be axed but it’s likely to be timed with the switch to Euro 7 emissions which is expected to come into force in November 2026.

“There’s no doubt about its potential – this is one of the most sophisticated engines we’ve ever built – but the investment to make it EU7-compliant is very high,” said the source.

Other cars powered by the M139 2.0-litre four-cylinder include the current Mercedes-AMG A 45 hot hatch and the SL 43 roadster. While the A-Class will be axed, it's been reported the SL 43 will transition to a lower-polluting inline six-cylinder engine.

Finally, the insider revealed that the car-maker was working on a new emissions-compliant V8 featuring a flat-plane-crank engine that will allow it to rev higher than its current V8, while sporting a more compact design. It’s thought the V8 will bag both 48-volt mild-hybrid and full plug-in hybrid electrification.

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