Mercedes AMG, with a 4-cylinder engine, faces a barrage of criticism
Will it switch back to an 8-cylinder this time?
Mercedes-Benz faced significant backlash with the release of its last AMG C63 S E Performance model, which featured a four-cylinder engine—a departure from the model’s historic V8 engines. Although adding electric power boosted its output, many enthusiasts felt that a four-cylinder engine was a downgrade from the 63-line V8s had traditionally powered.
Consumer dissatisfaction was palpable. In early August 2023, reports surfaced online suggesting that the next model would revert to a V8 engine due to the poor sales performance of the AMG C63 S E Performance. Senior executives confirmed this shift, citing both lackluster sales and consumer feedback as crucial factors in the decision. The new AMG CLE 63 S will feature the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine currently used in the SL 63, addressing the concerns of fans who missed the traditional V8 power.
Will it end up with an 8-cylinder?
Will it resemble the lower model?
This test drive showed solid evidence of this because two important things were missing. One is the lack of a charging port at the rear, and the other is the absence of an EV sticker, which is mandatory for test vehicles equipped with hybrid engines. Equipped with a twin-turbo 8-cylinder engine, it is expected to produce a maximum output of 577 horsepower and a maximum torque of 81.57 kg.m.
The recently revealed appearance also showed similarities with its predecessor, the AMG CLE 53. That’s the same Panamericana grille and side scud look. However, the difference is that it features a front air intake and quad tips with square tips. The panda intake was also designed horizontally, but this time, it was confirmed that it was designed vertically.
Will we see the unveiling soon?
Likely be at the upcoming show in a few weeks
Judging by the level of camouflage, the reveal of the latest AMG CLE 63 S is just around the corner. It will likely be in the coming weeks or months, although Mercedes could unveil its latest model at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in a few weeks.
The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is an international classic car show held annually in Pebble Beach, California, US. This is a perfect location for Mercedes-Benz to launch its latest models, including the Mercedes-Maybach 6 Cabriolet, the AMG GT R, and the Silver Arrow.
The eternal rivalry: BMW M
The battle between heaviness and elegance
The launch price of the previous model, the AMG CLE 53, was set at about 91,511 euros (about US$100K). The price is likely to be similar or slightly higher. Still, compared to the BMW M4 Coupe model in a similar price range, BMW is slightly behind with its inline 6-cylinder engine, producing a maximum output of 510 horsepower and maximum torque of 66.3 kg.m.
Each person may have a different perspective on design, but BMW’s signature grille feels solid and masculine. Even though the BMW is larger in length, width, and height, it makes it look bigger. In comparison, BMW is more like a beautiful vehicle. The body is designed to fall softly and smoothly, so the large body does not feel burdensome. It will be interesting to see whether the showdown between these two vehicles will be revealed in a few weeks at Pebble Beach or whether it will be pushed back a few months.
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