- Two versions of the Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 were recently caught on cam.
- The absence of the distinctive V8 engine note during their run has bothered observers.
- There’s a strong possibility that AMG will pair their ICEs with electric motors to give them an extra boost in performance.
One of the much-anticipated releases of Mercedes-Benz is the Mercedes-AMG CLE 63. It’s because the range that consolidated the coupe and convertible models of the C-Class and E-Class is, by far, only limited to the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53.
The currently most potent version of the auto has left a lot to be desired from true petrol heads, as it was only equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. It was a major departure from the V8 that dominated the AMG lineup before it underwent downsizing on its numerous models.
AMG CLE 63 Confirmation
CarSpyMedia recently captured the AMG CLE 63 Coupe. The source of the spy shots saw two versions of the car cruising at the Nurburgring endurance track with partial camouflage.
Although the cars were partly covered in camo, there were big giveaways to their identity as the AMG CLE 63. Their prominent front grilles with vertical slats are a key confirmation of their AMG traits. Meanwhile, their more aggressive stance and quadruple square exhaust ports replacing the tubular tips of the CLE 53 affirm their CLE 63 nomenclature.
However, notably absent from the cars during their run on the endurance track were the distinct crackles and engine screams of the past V8s. This made the source question whether or not there’s really an eight-pot “hot V” beneath the hood of the units.
A Possible V8 with Integrated Electric Motor
On the other hand, it’s also possible that the cars’ internal combustion engine (ICE) might indeed be V8s but matched with electric motors for extra oomph. The red-painted version of the spied AMG CLE 63 suggests such a setup with its yellow stickers on the rear window. These usually serve as indicators for first responders to inform them about an electrified powertrain within a vehicle.
Another angle worth considering is that Mercedes could be intentionally masking the cars’ engine notes. This is probably to save the thrill for their official reveal sometime this year. Only time will tell whether our suspicions are correct or if the three-pointed star marque will disappoint.
Mercedes Hints Return of V8 in AMG 63s
None other than Markus Schäfer, Mercedes-Benz Group’s Chief Technology Officer, confirmed the likelihood of the V8’s return across the “63” designated models of AMG. The Mercedes official admitted that they have been monitoring public reception for the AMG C 63 and AMG GLC 63 last year.
Schäfer hinted that public sentiment for the V8 has significantly gained traction. At the previous Beijing Auto Show, he reiterated that they would adjust their roadmap and electrification goals as per customers’ demands.
Given the backlash the company has been getting for its aggressive downsizing and electrification efforts, it’s plausible that Mercedes is reconsidering its strategy to better align with its core audiences’ calls.
