Mercedes-AMG appears set to drastically AMG four-cylinder discontinuation as it prepares for a new wave of stringent European Union noise regulations set to take effect in 2026. A recent report, citing an internal memo from within Mercedes Germany, suggests that production for several key AMG models, including the controversial four-cylinder C63, will cease within the next few months.
The move, ostensibly triggered by the impending Phase 3 of the UN-R51.03 external noise regulation, marks a significant shift for the Affalterbach performance division, which has faced customer pushback over the switch from its characterful V8 engines to smaller, electrified powertrains.
The Chopping Block: Production Deadlines
According to the German-language outlet Elektroauto-News, which published details of the alleged October memo, the axe will fall in two stages:
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February 2026 Discontinuation: Production for the Mercedes-AMG C43, GLC43, and GLA35 models is reportedly scheduled to conclude by the end of the third week of February 2026.
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May 2026 Discontinuation: The higher-performance, plug-in hybrid Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance sedan and GLC63 S E Performance SUV will reportedly remain in production until the third week of May 2026.
One of the compact AMG models, the powerful GLA45 S, is noted as being unaffected by the changes, with orders set to continue without restriction.
Silence, Please: The Regulatory Culprit
The memo reportedly points directly to the new EU noise limits, which come into force on July 1, 2026, as the reason for the cull. The new Phase 3 UN-R51.03 regulation is designed to significantly reduce the maximum allowable external noise from vehicles.
While the new noise constraints affect several four-cylinder models, the omission of AMG’s larger six- and eight-cylinder vehicles from the list is notable. This has led to speculation that the noise regulation provides Mercedes-AMG with a convenient reason to discontinue models that may have struggled with consumer acceptance. Specifically, the four-cylinder C63 S E Performance has been criticized by enthusiasts for its lack of V8 character and its significant weight gain despite its impressive power figures.
Hope for a Harsher Sound: Successor Speculation
The discontinuation does not necessarily signal the end of performance models in these segments. The internal document reportedly hints that dealers will be informed about “possible successor products” in the near future.
This phrase has ignited significant anticipation among the AMG faithful, especially given persistent rumors earlier this year about a potential return to V8 power for the C63 and GLC63, likely via an electrified hybrid system to meet emissions standards. A six-cylinder successor to the C43 and GLC43 is also a strong possibility.
As Mercedes-AMG prepares to launch what it calls its “most extensive product offensive in its history,” which includes a “next-generation, high-tech electrified V8,” the next 18 months promise a tumultuous but potentially exciting reshuffling of its core performance lineup. For many enthusiasts, the hope is that new regulations and new product plans will finally restore the trademark V8 soundtrack to AMG’s mid-size models.
