Mercedes-AMG announces the end of the C 63’s turbocharged V8, replacing it with a straight-six C 53. Discover what this means for performance fans – read more now!
Mercedes‑AMG has officially confirmed that the high‑performance C 63 S E‑Performance equipped with the turbocharged 4‑cylinder M139 engine will cease production. In its place, the brand will launch a new C 53 model powered by a 3.0‑liter inline‑six that is not part of a hybrid system.
Why the V8 Is Saying Goodbye
During a recent interview, AMG CEO Michael Schiebe explained that tightening European emissions standards – specifically the upcoming EU7 regulations – make it virtually impossible to keep the M139 four‑cylinder in the lineup. “Under EU7 it would be extremely difficult to continue offering this engine,” Schiebe said. “Therefore we will discontinue the M139 and replace it with an inline‑six in the mid‑size segment.”
The New C 53: Straight‑Six Power Without Hybrid Complexity
The forthcoming C 53 will borrow its powerplant from the CLE 53, delivering 449 hp and 600 Nm of torque. Unlike the AMG E 53, which combines a 3.0‑liter straight‑six with a plug‑in hybrid system for a combined 612 hp and 750 Nm, the C 53’s engine will be pure‑spark – no electric assistance.
How It Stacks Up Against the Current C 63
The outgoing C 63 S E‑Performance currently produces a staggering 680 hp and 1,020 Nm, thanks to its 2.0‑liter PHEV setup. While those numbers are impressive on paper, real‑world performance tells a more nuanced story. In a drag‑race test organized by Edmunds, the C 63 was out‑paced by the 550‑hp BMW M3 CS, highlighting that raw horsepower does not always translate into straight‑line speed, especially when the vehicle’s weight approaches 2.2 tonnes.
Future AMG V8s – A Possible Comeback?
Enthusiasts hoping for a new generation V8 have reasons to stay optimistic. Sources suggest Mercedes‑AMG plans to reintroduce a fresh V8 architecture across upcoming C‑Class and CLE‑Class models. While the timeline is still vague, the brand’s commitment to delivering the “pure AMG” experience remains strong.
What This Means for the C‑Class Lineup
The next‑generation C‑Class is expected to debut within months, with the AMG‑tuned C 53 likely arriving in the second half of 2026. Because the new C‑Class shares its platform with the upcoming GLC, analysts predict the AMG 53 powertrain could also appear in a high‑performance GLC variant, opening a fresh direction for the AMG range.
Bottom Line
Mercedes‑AMG’s decision to retire the M139 V8 engine isn’t an admission of design failure; it’s a strategic move dictated by stricter emissions legislation. The upcoming C 53 promises a more straightforward, non‑hybrid driving experience, while the brand keeps the door open for a next‑gen V8 in the near future. For performance lovers, the transition marks the end of an era and the beginning of an exciting new chapter.