Germany: New Mercedes-AMG C63 registers 'close to zero' sales

Despite the low sales of the new AMG C63, Mercedes has rubbished previous rumours of bringing back the V8 engine.

The new-generation Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance created quite a buzz during its global unveil when the carmaker replaced its twin-turbo V8 engine with a 4-cylinder PHEV powertrain. The German car brand expected the higher power output and the advanced tech on offer would be sufficient for its potential buyers to look past the engine downsizing.

However, the carmaker seems to have missed the mark. Based on observations in its domestic market of Germany, the information provided by dealers shows that sales of the electrified AMG C63 are hovering "Close to Zero". However, dealers state that the reduced cylinder count isn't the only contributing factor to the low demand, it is also the noticeable difference in pricing between its competitors.

The Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance starts with a price tag of $126,000. It directly rivals the BMW M3 Competition xDrive, which is a little over $16,000 cheaper, while featuring an in-line 6-cylinder unit. Also, while the M3 Competition is a full 168 BHP down on power compared to the electrified C63, the BMW is still said to offer superior value in terms of powertrain, pricing and quality.

The new-gen C63 S E Performance with its PHEV setup is a lot heavier, tipping the scale at well over 2 tonnes, compared to the 1,690 kg of its predecessor. However, reports do suggest that part of the appeal of the old C63 was its V8's undeniably appealing sound.

However, despite the low sales of the new AMG C63 S E Performance, Mercedes-Benz has rubbished previous rumours of bringing back the V8s, stating it will stick to the 4-cylinder PHEV powertrain.

Source: CarScoops