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Miami Herald
01-07-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Mercedes EQS Joins G-Class, C63 As Electrified Letdowns
Mercedes-Benz is still one the most prominent makers of luxury cars. Models like the E-Class, S-Class, and GLC-Class are brilliant examples of how good the brand's core lineup still is, but on the other hand, a number of outlying Mercs have failed to resonate with buyers in the same way. Sales of the electric G-Class have been low and the new C63's four-cylinder hybrid engine has had enthusiasts up in arms. By the brand's own admission, you can now add the EQS electric sedan to that list: Sales have failed to get close to the traditional S-Class, as buyers are turned off by its revolutionary design. "I think the EQS is probably 10 years too early," said Mercedes-Benz design chief Gorden Wagener when speaking to Autocar. "It's a very, very progressive car and, of course, it was not originally designed as a chauffeur limousine. That was not the intention. Many people in this class expect a long hood and status from a chauffeur car, and the EQS is different there." That's the assessment from the chief designer when he explained why the EQS has not sold as strongly as the gas-powered S-Class. Mercedes even went so far as to introduce a more conventional-looking grille on the 2025 EQS, but there's nothing much it can do about the swoopy, egg-shaped body that deviates quite dramatically from the more common three-box sedan. "Maybe we should have marketed it differently, more like a futuristic CLS, S-Class Coupe, or something like that." A similar sentiment was expressed by Mercedes when talking about the cold reception to the C63's four-cylinder plug-in hybrid engine, which was dubbed as one of the most advanced powertrains yet. Not only does the EQS appear completely distinct from the S-Class, but the same is true of the EQE alongside the traditional E-Class. Over at BMW, a totally different strategy has been employed. The i5 is almost indistinguishable from the gas-powered 5 Series, and the same is true for the i7 and 7 Series. By doing this, BMW hasn't alienated any specific buyer. So a 5 Series customer can now choose between gas or electric power, but the look and feel of both sedans are the same and in line with expectations. It's little wonder that Mercedes is taking a page out of BMW's book with the next S-Class and EQS, which will look like a typical S-Class with a single design. Already, the brand is approaching electric powertrain development by looking back at what has worked so well; it will be incorporating the feel and sensations of its classic V8 in new EVs, starting with the production version of the Concept GT XX. By doing the same from a design perspective, Mercedes has a chance to once again regain the loyalty of its fan base with a new generation of EVs that don't look like they're from several years in the future. Related: How Mercedes-AMG Will Make EVs Feel and Sound Like a V8 Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Auto Blog
01-07-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Egg-Shaped EQS Deepens Mercedes' Electrified Struggles
From weird designs to uninspiring powertrains, electrified Mercs are struggling to win over fans Mercedes-Benz is still one the most prominent makers of luxury cars. Models like the E-Class, S-Class, and GLC-Class are brilliant examples of how good the brand's core lineup still is, but on the other hand, a number of outlying Mercs have failed to resonate with buyers in the same way. Sales of the electric G-Class have been low and the new C63's four-cylinder hybrid engine has had enthusiasts up in arms. By the brand's own admission, you can now add the EQS electric sedan to that list: Sales have failed to get close to the traditional S-Class, as buyers are turned off by its revolutionary design. EQS Arrived '10 Years Too Early' 'I think the EQS is probably 10 years too early,' said Mercedes-Benz design chief Gorden Wagener when speaking to Autocar. 'It's a very, very progressive car and, of course, it was not originally designed as a chauffeur limousine. That was not the intention. Many people in this class expect a long hood and status from a chauffeur car, and the EQS is different there.' That's the assessment from the chief designer when he explained why the EQS has not sold as strongly as the gas-powered S-Class. Mercedes even went so far as to introduce a more conventional-looking grille on the 2025 EQS, but there's nothing much it can do about the swoopy, egg-shaped body that deviates quite dramatically from the more common three-box sedan. 'Maybe we should have marketed it differently, more like a futuristic CLS, S-Class Coupe, or something like that.' A similar sentiment was expressed by Mercedes when talking about the cold reception to the C63's four-cylinder plug-in hybrid engine, which was dubbed as one of the most advanced powertrains yet. BMW's EV Approach Has Been More Effective Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Not only does the EQS appear completely distinct from the S-Class, but the same is true of the EQE alongside the traditional E-Class. Over at BMW, a totally different strategy has been employed. The i5 is almost indistinguishable from the gas-powered 5 Series, and the same is true for the i7 and 7 Series. By doing this, BMW hasn't alienated any specific buyer. So a 5 Series customer can now choose between gas or electric power, but the look and feel of both sedans are the same and in line with expectations. It's little wonder that Mercedes is taking a page out of BMW's book with the next S-Class and EQS, which will look like a typical S-Class with a single design. Already, the brand is approaching electric powertrain development by looking back at what has worked so well; it will be incorporating the feel and sensations of its classic V8 in new EVs, starting with the production version of the Concept GT XX. By doing the same from a design perspective, Mercedes has a chance to once again regain the loyalty of its fan base with a new generation of EVs that don't look like they're from several years in the future. About the Author Karl Furlong View Profile
IOL News
30-06-2025
- Automotive
- IOL News
Mercedes-AMG C63's four-cylinder powertrain to be phased out as it doesn't ‘resonate' with clients: report
The next Mercedes-AMG C63 is likely to feature a six-cylinder engine. Image: Supplied There's no denying that the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance is a technological masterpiece, but it falls short in the one critical area: its soundtrack simply isn't soulful enough for those accustomed to six- and eight-cylinder engines. It is strongly rumoured that the facelifted version of the C63 will adopt a six-cylinder hybrid powertrain, and a senior insider has now confirmed that the current four-cylinder plug-in hybrid (PHEV) will eventually be phased out. Speaking with Autocar at a media event in Germany recently, the unnamed source said that the four-cylinder powertrain would remain in production for the time being, but would eventually be replaced. The insider also admitted that the four-pot motor has not resonated with customers. 'Technically, the four-cylinder is one of the most advanced drivetrains available in a production car. It's also right up there on performance. But despite this, it failed to resonate with our traditional customers. We've recognised that,' the source told Autocar. Another strong motive was the high cost over adapting AMG's four-cylinder hybrid powertrain to comply with upcoming Euro 7 emissions rules, the insider added. Previous reports suggest that the facelifted C63, as well as its GLC 63 sibling, will adopt a six-cylinder hybrid powertrain, with more power than what's offered in the current six-cylinder E53 and CLE 53 AMG models. The CLE 63 will reportedly receive a V8 hybrid set-up, but this hasn't been earmarked for the C-Class because it was never designed to accommodate an eight-cylinder engine - at least not without significant modification. Even with an extra two cylinders, it's unlikely that the next C63 will gain much more power. Boasting total outputs of 500kW and 1,020Nm, the performance flagship is already far ahead of the competition. Consider that the BMW M3 Competition produces 390kW and the Audi RS4 is good for 331kW. While Mercedes-AMG has indicated that petrol-electric hybrid vehicles will form part of its line-up for many years to come, the performance division is also simultaneously launching a new line-up of fully-electric vehicles, underpinned by the new AMG-EA high-performance architecture. Set apart by a bold new design language, previewed by the recently revealed Concept AMG GT XX, the platform also ushers in technical innovations, such as innovative axial flux motors and a pioneering battery design that allows the vehicle to be recharged with enough energy for 400km in just five minutes. It's unclear whether any of these innovations will filter down to the hybrid models however. IOL Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel.
Hindustan Times
29-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Mercedes AMG to phase out 4 cylinder plug-in hybrids: Report
The Mercedes AMG C 63 S E-Performance gets hybrid technology taken from the company's F1 division Check Offers Mercedes-AMG is to phase out its contentious four-cylinder plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains deployed in its new C 63 and GLC 63 models. The step represents a strategic reversal as the performance division of Mercedes-Benz responds to customer criticism and the impending expense of having to adapt these sophisticated motors to achieve compliance with tougher Euro 7 emissions rules. Four cylinder hybrid strategy fails The plug-in hybrid setup in the C 63 S E Performance and its SUV sibling, the GLC 63, was intended as a technological leap—offering a complex, high-output 2.0-litre turbocharged engine paired with electric assistance for a combined 671 bhp. Nonetheless, while it has its performance credentials, the powertrain never struck a chord with traditional AMG purchasers, who were in large part pining for an unfiltered V8 experience. Also Read : Mercedes-AMG GT 63 and GT 63 PRO launched at ₹ 3 crore. Bookings open A senior AMG executive conceded in a report by Autocar that though the four-cylinder hybrid is one of the most sophisticated systems ever produced by the company, it hasn't achieved success on the customer acceptance front. "Technically brilliant, but misunderstood" was the verdict, leading the brand to reconsider its engine roadmap. Inline six and V8 powertrains to comeback In a return to its roots, AMG is now expected to reintroduce inline six-cylinder and V8 powertrains in future performance models. These will be electrified through 48V mild-hybrid or full-hybrid systems to balance performance with emissions compliance. These new configurations will likely appear in next-generation models aligned with the rollout of Euro 7 standards later this decade. AMG's 3.0-litre inline-six engine, currently found in the CLE 53 and E 53, is expected to form the backbone of future 43- and 53-badged cars, replacing the four-cylinder units used in the C 43 and SL 43. Meanwhile, a new V8 is reportedly in development for top-tier AMG variants such as the anticipated CLE 63. Also Read : Mercedes-Benz rethinks EV plans, will retain combustion engines due to slower adoption Small AMG cars to go electric or disappear While the larger AMG offerings shift back to bigger engines, the future of smaller performance models looks electric—or uncertain. The A 45 hot hatch will not be replaced, and the CLA 45's successor is expected to be an all-electric performance sedan. The 2.0-litre hand-built four-cylinder engine, once a point of pride for AMG, will be confined to standard models like the CLA, GLA, and GLB, but not in AMG form. The SL43, which uses this engine, may also transition to either a six-cylinder or a detuned version of the 4.0-litre V8 found in the SL 55 and SL 63 roadsters. No immediate timeline Although a specific timeline for the transition hasn't been confirmed, industry insiders suggest that the change will coincide with the arrival of Euro 7 norms or the next generation of C and GLC Class models. In the meantime, the current four-cylinder hybrids will continue to be sold, despite their limited commercial success. Mercedes-AMG's decision signals a strategic recalibration: one that balances future regulatory demands with the emotional appeal that has traditionally defined its performance cars. The V8 may not roar as widely as before, but its return in key models shows that AMG isn't ready to let go of its legacy just yet. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 29 Jun 2025, 08:57 AM IST
Auto Blog
27-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Mercedes-AMG's Most Hated Engine Is Being Replaced
In 2025, there's still no replacement for displacement In a recent interview, Mercedes-AMG CEO Michael Shiebe admitted that converting fans of the brand's old V8 to the newer four-cylinder plug-in hybrid in the C63 has been a challenge. Prior to that, he said some customers have been lost in the midst of the brand's downsizing exercise. No intention to formally discontinue the four-pot engine was proposed, but that now seems to be happening, with a senior insider confirming that this unloved powertrain will be phased out in favor of larger inline-six and V8 mills. 2025 Audi S3 VS 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLA 35: Which one comes out on top? Watch More Mercedes-AMG Finally Admits Defeat 'Technically, the four-cylinder is one of the most advanced drivetrains available in a production car,' said the source who spoke to Autocar. 'It's also right up there on performance. But despite this, it failed to resonate with our traditional customers. We've recognized that.' Mercedes would not necessarily have to develop a new engine from scratch for smaller AMG models. In the E53 AMG, for instance, the company uses a 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbocharged hybrid that produces 577 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. It's not a direct BMW M5 rival, but it's not far off in terms of performance, either. This engine in a smaller AMG model could make for a special performance car. More exciting is the possibility of a new flat-plane crank V8, not dissimilar from the one in the GT Black Series. Whatever replaces the four-cylinder unit, it's sure to mark a return to the emotional character that has defined AMG models for so long. The current C63 S E Performance is a heck of a performer, boasting 671 hp and 752 lb-ft, but the previous V8-powered C63 set a high bar that it hasn't been able to surpass, no matter how quick it is. Other AMG Models Should Benefit From Bigger Engines Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. The GLC 63 S E Performance shares the C63's 671-hp four-cylinder plug-in hybrid, so is also in line to get either a bigger six- or eight-cylinder engine in the years ahead. A notch below these full-fat AMG models are the AMG SL 43 Roadster and C43 sedan, both of which use a 416-hp version of the M139 four-cylinder engine. In a car of the SL's caliber and price, the use of a four-cylinder has been especially contentious, so we expect these models to ditch the 2.0L engine for a larger Six. Other than its more ordinary soundtrack, there's another reason to phase out the M139: It won't be easy or cost-effective to get it to comply with new Euro 7 emissions regulations. '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 insider. Markus Schäfer, Mercedes CTO, said at the same event that EVs and hybrid gas engines will continue being developed in tandem, and that the new V8 'will support upcoming emissions regulations.' Both six- and eight-cylinder engines will use either 48V or full hybrid systems. Ultimately, Merc's four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain looks like it will only last for a single generation, although a specific timeline wasn't given. Over time, it may come to be regarded as a rare misstep in AMG's legacy. That's only if you're a cylinder snob like most enthusiasts, of course; the current C63 and GLC 63 are brilliant performance vehicles in many respects. But their incredible technical achievements came at the expense of the emotional qualities of their predecessors. About the Author Karl Furlong View Profile
