Mercedes-AMG C63 W206
It’s not all doom and gloom, because the next C63 is going to be powerful
The next-generation C63 will use a four-cylinder powerplant.
We can assure you that this isn’t a delayed April fool’s joke - this is exactly what is happening. The W206 Mercedes-AMG C63 will not use a bi-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, but instead an electrified-2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder.
Depending on how you see it, it isn’t necessarily bad news, as the new mild-hybrid-equipped C63 will not only match the output of the existing V8 model but will produce far more torque. The new motor will be lighter, which should allow the flagship C-Class to be better balanced, besting the current 54-46% weight distribution split in the W205. The positioning of the compact motor will also allow for a more aerodynamic front end. And let’s not forget about the immediacy of throttle response thanks to electrification. Sure, it won’t sound anywhere near as good, but this is evolution.
That said, reports suggest that many high up in Mercedes-Benz aren’t happy with this decision to downsize the C –including Mercedes-AMG boss man Tobias Moers.
It is believed that the mild-hybrid system will include an electric compressor as well as a belt-driven electric motor-generator. The latter would serve as the engine's starter but would also be able to provide a boost during high loads and recover energy under braking.
The other AMG variant in the line-up - the C43 – is to be replaced by a C53, and will drop its 287kw twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 - and much like the C63 - it will likely feature of a variant of the turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder that currently produces as much as 310kw in the A45 S. Much like with the upcoming C63, the C53 will use a 9-speed Speedshift transmission, and a trick 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system.
Mercedes-Benz’s all-new C-Class is expected to debut sometime next year, with the range-topping Mercedes-AMG C63 likely to only arrive in late 2021 or in early 2022.
As a side note, this isn’t the new C63 by the way; this is a render by famed YouTuber and AMG enthusiast Raziz ‘RokenR’ Rehan based on the E63 facelift.
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-AMG A Class and the Mercedes-AMG G Class.
FAQ
Q: What engine does the 2021 Mercedes-AMG C63 W206 have?
The 2021 Mercedes-AMG C63 W206 ditches the traditional V8 for an electrified 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing more power and torque than the outgoing V8 model.
Q: How much power does the new Mercedes-AMG C63 W206 produce?
The new C63 W206's mild-hybrid 4-cylinder engine matches the output of the previous V8 model while producing significantly more torque, though exact South African specifications are still to be confirmed by Mercedes-Benz SA.
Q: Is the Mercedes-AMG C63 W206 all-wheel drive?
Yes, the Mercedes-AMG C63 W206 features the advanced 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system paired with a 9-speed Speedshift transmission for optimal traction and performance.
Q: What does the Mercedes-AMG C63 W206 cost in South Africa?
Mercedes-Benz South Africa hasn't released official pricing for the C63 W206 yet, but expect it to start around R1,800,000 when it arrives, positioning it as a premium performance saloon.
Q: Is the Mercedes-AMG C63 W206 worth buying over the old V8 model?
The C63 W206 offers better weight distribution, improved throttle response through electrification, and more torque than the V8, making it objectively superior despite purists missing that V8 soundtrack.
Should You Buy It?
The best electrified performance saloon under R2,000,000 in South Africa is shaping up to be the Mercedes-AMG C63 W206, and yes, you should absolutely consider it despite the engine downsizing drama. While traditionalists will mourn the loss of that glorious V8 rumble, this new mild-hybrid 4-cylinder setup delivers more torque, better weight distribution, and sharper throttle response than its predecessor. At an expected starting price of around R1,800,000, it's positioned to dominate the premium performance segment against rivals like the BMW M3 and Audi RS4. The 4MATIC+ system and 9-speed transmission promise year-round usability, while the improved aerodynamics and lighter engine placement should make it a proper weapon on both road and track. Sure, it won't sound like a V8, but evolution sometimes means trading nostalgia for genuine performance improvements.
