Mercedes-AMG’s turbo-four will power bigger models

As a usual practice, the automakers shift better technologies to the smaller or cheaper versions in the range. However, here we see a rare case when Mercedes announced larger AMG models with its impressive 2.0-litre M139 turbocharged in-line four-cylinder producing 416 PS of power.

The earlier turbo-four powered models of the company are smaller and front-wheel drive such as Mercedes-AMG A45, CLA45, and upcoming GLA45 and GLB45 crossovers. But as revealed by the automaker, now the new engine is placed under the skin of the larger rear-drive cars.

During an interview at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Tobias Moers, AMG CEO stated that the 2.0-litre turbo four can churn 416 PS with 500 Nm of torque, as “it is going to use that engine for further applications which are not necessarily east-west applications”.

Also, in transforming the drivetrain strategy, Mercedes welcomes smaller engines and electrification. For example, the new Mercedes C63 will have a hybrid variant, and may also have an electrified version of the M139 2.0-litre.

He also asserted that the upcoming 63 branded models will be hybrid and have the same power generation as ongoing 63 S cars, which is up to 611 PS.

In the context of AMG V8s and V12s, Ola Kallenius, Head of Group R&D at Mercedes-Benz commented a few days back said, “the V8 will be there for many years to come” and that “the V12 will survive”.

Apart from hybridization and potential downsizing of its engines, the automaker is also in the process to adopt all-wheel-drive function completely and is preparing to launch a pure-electric AMG model. Moreover, the hybrid version of the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door is lined up for launch in 2021.

Stay tuned with Zigwheels Australia for more insights on this.

Also read: Mercedes-Maybach GLS launch scheduled for late 2019, may get V12