Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 4Matic: The V8 Monster Returning To Its Roots
The automotive world is buzzing with excitement, and for a good reason. Mercedes-Benz's AMG division is shifting gears, bringing a V8 engine back in the spotlight for its top-tier model, the forthcoming Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 4Matic. While the recently introduced AMG C 63 S E Performance amazed many with its Formula 1-inspired 4-cylinder PHEV system, the decision to equip the CLE 63 with a V8 mild hybrid setup reflects Mercedes' response to market demands and loyalty to its high-performance roots.
The Electrification Journey
Mercedes has been on a mission to electrify its performance lineup. Models like the AMG S 63 E Performance and the new AMG GT/SL 63 E Performance featured groundbreaking PHEV systems. These setups combine a robust twin-turbo V8 engine with an electric motor on the rear axle, achieving a blend of power and efficiency. However, for the AMG C 63 and GLC 63, the company opted for a smaller, 4-cylinder engine coupled with an electrically driven turbo, leaving some enthusiasts wanting more.
Customer Feedback Matters
Original plans intended to apply this 4-cylinder PHEV system to the new AMG CLE 63 Coupe and Cabrio. However, Mercedes took a U-turn due to palpable customer discontent. The 4-cylinder in the AMG C 63 and GLC 63 didn't hit the mark in terms of sales, which led dealers to voice concerns over confusing market positioning. A 4-cylinder engine for the AMG CLE 63 would have seemed underwhelming above the six-cylinder AMG CLE 53 4Matic.
Logical Consistency
By extension, these decisions imply that the future AMG E 63 will likely feature a V8 as well. Given that the current AMG E 53 4Matic boasts a robust six-cylinder engine, a downgrading to a 4-cylinder would create inconsistency in Mercedes' lineup.
Formula 1 Influence and Customer Power
Markus Schafer, head of development at Mercedes, underscored the performance magic of the PHEV system in the AMG C 63 S E Performance, taking cues from Formula 1 racing technology. Despite the system's impressive capabilities, Schafer acknowledged that customer preferences are paramount. The P3 Hybrid setup is versatile enough to pair with both 4-cylinder and V8 engines, evidenced by its use in both the AMG S 63 and AMG GT/SL 63 E Performance models.
A Balanced Approach
While the V8-powered PHEV setup might be an overkill for the AMG CLE 63, a tailored 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 48V mild hybrid technology strikes a balance between power and manageability. The CLE 63, armed with this powertrain, will squarely compete with the updated BMW M4 Facelift, which churns out 550 PS from its 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six.
As we anticipate the arrival of the Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 4Matic, one thing becomes clear: Mercedes has its ears to the ground, listening attentively to its audience. This decision to revert to a V8 mild hybrid configuration highlights the brand's commitment to meeting performance expectations without compromising its innovative spirit.