The four-cylinder, plug-in-hybrid Mercedes-AMG C63 was never a big hit. In our review, we called it a "technical masterpiece with no soul." Now it appears Mercedes agrees: The four-banger C63 is reportedly headed for the chopping block.
According to Germany’s Elektroauto News, Mercedes is ending production of the C63 PHEV after only a few years. A leaked internal memo indicates that several four-cylinder AMG models will be discontinued after the 2026 model year, including the current C63.
The memo, circulated internally in October, states that the C43, GLC43, and GLA35 will end production in February 2026. The C63 and GLC63 will last until May 2026. The only four-cylinder AMG model apparently unaffected is the GLA45+.
Interestingly, these models will reportedly be phased out due to stricter noise regulations in Europe, enforced by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). The memo explains that new rules "will result in a reduction of the external noise limits… we would therefore like to inform you in advance about upcoming discontinuation dates for selected AMG engines."
For fans of larger engines, this is great news. The four-cylinder C63’s fate was already in question, with multiple reports suggesting Mercedes was developing a new version of the performance sedan with a bigger powertrain.
In June, Mercedes executives acknowledged that the four-cylinder C63 wasn’t resonating with enthusiasts. A few months later, Mathias Geisen, Member of the Board of Management for Marketing & Sales, hinted that the next C63 may feature a larger engine. While not confirming a return to a V-8, a powerful V-6 at least sounds like a very real possibility.
Details on the rumored next-generation C63 remain scarce, but it’s clear Mercedes has taken the feedback on the current model to heart. Electrification will remain central to the brand’s strategy, but with some luck, future AMG models will pair their batteries with bigger, more characterful engines. Here’s hoping.