Mercedes-AMG CEO Michael Scheibe confirmed to Car Magazine that the V8 engine is returning to AMG's lineup before the end of 2026, beginning with SUV models. The announcement ends years of speculation and fan frustration following AMG's controversial decision to replace the beloved 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 in the C63 with a four-cylinder plug-in hybrid setup.
What's Changing
The plug-in hybrid C63 — which drew intense criticism despite delivering impressive power figures — is being retired in favor of a straight-six engine, similar to the unit in the new GLC53. The returning V8 is expected to be derived from the flat-plane crank M177 Evo engine found in the new S-Class, and will appear first in SUV models — most likely the GLE63 and GLS63 — before arriving in coupes and sedans. A V8-powered CLE AMG has also been hinted at by Mercedes' US CEO.
Scheibe summed up the philosophy shift clearly: "If you want to have a lightweight car, sometimes it's best to have a V8-only car." AMG is simultaneously doubling down on combustion engines AND maintaining its EV lineup — meaning the brand intends to be performance-first across all powertrains rather than forcing hybrid complexity where it doesn't belong.
What This Means If You're Choosing Between BMW M and AMG
For DMV luxury buyers in the consideration phase, this announcement changes the calculus in a few ways. If you've been holding off on an AMG because of the hybrid powertrain controversy — especially in the C63 — relief is coming, but not immediately. The V8 returns to SUVs first, and the coupe/sedan timeline is still TBD.
BMW, meanwhile, has continued refining its inline-six and V8 M-performance engines without the hybrid controversy. The M3, M4, X5 M, and X6 M all remain V8 or straight-six powered. If you want a V8 performance SUV today, BMW's X5 M is available now. If you're willing to wait for AMG's V8 return, late 2026 or early 2027 is the realistic window.
The Bigger Picture
AMG's V8 return signals something important for the luxury performance segment: pure electrification isn't winning with enthusiast buyers. Both BMW and Mercedes are recalibrating — offering EVs for buyers who want them while keeping combustion alive for buyers who demand it. For DMV area buyers who love performance driving on I-270, Route 7, or the GW Parkway, that's genuinely good news.
Considering a BMW M model or waiting for the AMG V8? Run your payment estimate now and know your numbers either way.
Source: The Drive / Car Magazine, May 2026. For informational purposes only.