Not sure how much stock I would put into this article, but according to them once the straight six 48V hybrid engines debut, Mercedes will adopt a new name for those models under the "53" designation.

The article also states that the "43" models would then be supplanted and that Mercedes would retire that number. Considering the "turmoil" in the naming architecture over the last several years, I'm not so sure that they'd just get rid of the "43" naming scheme so easily since those numbers have more significance than "53," which, as far as I'm concerned, has no historical significance.


http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/201...new-number-53/

Notable Text:

"Speaking to Wheels, a company source has stated the electrification revolution will begin next spring with the unveiling of the next-generation Mercedes-AMG CLS53. Yes, you read that right. The number “43” isn’t long for this world, nor is the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 found in models carrying the designation.

The automaker’s chatty Cathy employee also let slip power figures — details that should brighten the weekend of anyone planning a Mercedes-AMG purchase in the next couple of years. The inline-six will generate 429 horsepower with another 67 horsepower on tap from the electric motor-generator. That’s a healthy increase over the 396-hp V6 found in AMG models bearing the number 43.

Next up after the CLS53 appears in the fall of 2018 is an E53 sedan, coupe and convertible (the only high-output choice for the droptop), followed by an S-Class model. The M256 engine debuts in the S-Class this fall minus the AMG badge and green power bump. The new engine could also trickle down to the C-Series at some point, perhaps minus the mild hybrid aspect, and it’s a given you’ll find it in the brand’s SUV lineup."

What do you guys think?

 

I have a few thoughts:

1) I am surprised they go with 53 and not 55 or 50 which both have more AMG history. Wouldn't surprise me if it turns out the number is different.

2) The engine described is unlikely to end up in the C, or GLC. 429hp + 67hp is 496hp. Recognizing the peak HP may not be fully aligned, you are probably still looking at a 470hp engine with this "53" engine. That is the same as a C63 or GLC63. I think Mercedes will allow some white space between these engines, and they aren't ready to upgrade the C to the 600hp 63 in the E-Class,

3) My guess is the ~470hp hybrid inline 6 will end up in the S, CLE (the new name for the CLS) and E Class cars. However, the C and GLC will get a non hybrid inline 6 with 430hp (which will still be a big jump from the 362hp C43).

 

Power outputs may still vary with time since the automakers always mention potential horsepower. But most outlets have some sort of a report on this and Jonny Lieberman is even making this claim now.

 

Motortrend drove the new Euro-spec S500 with a mild version of that engine and they were confirming 3). They indicate that that 53 designation will be used for cars E-class and bigger. See http://www.motortrend.com/cars/merce...-drive-review/

 

CLS53 Confirmed. We'll see if this proliferates to the GLC models.

https://www.motor1.com/news/222922/m...-53-confirmed/

 

Yes and note that total powertrain output is 429hp, a 30hp increase over the E43. This engine poses no threat to the 63 models.

Plus the 429hp is in the CLS and E class.

It is likely that the version for the C43 and GLC43 will be the CLS450 engine which is rated at only 379hp (362 from the inline 6 and 17 from the hybrid motor). This is hardly a big jump from the current 43.

 

May be possible that we'll have three models to choose from in the AMG lineup then, since recent articles have been saying AMG plans to become a full-line manufacturer.

So maybe we'll have:

C43/GLC43 with the current 3.0L TT V6 making 362hp (maybe upgraded to closer to 380 or 400 in the future).
C53/GLC53 with a 3.0L Straight Six mild hybrid drivetrain making 420-450hp.
C63/GLC63 witha 4.0L V8 making 479hp and 503hp (with variation for next gen improvements in hp and tq).

 

It's possible but highly unlikely. Don't forget there is a GLCC300 so you're advocating a 4 engine line-up. The GLC300 accounts for 92% of units (source Autotrader). The 43 is 8%. You are suggesting they take that 8% and subdivide that demand into a 43 and a 53.

I think they will do what everyone else is doing in this business and stick with a 3 model line-up:
Entry model: GLC300, X3 30i, Q5
Middle model: GLC43, X3 M40, SQ5
Top Model: GLC63/s, X3M, RSQ5

That is the model everyone else is following. It keeps the dealers happy because it is easier to manage inventory without excessive fragmentation.

 

I think once they introduce the 53, they will stop using the V6 M276 43/450 engine. It doesnt make sense to have 2 different turbocharged 3.0liter 6 cylinder engines. Its cheaper for them to just make only 1. The M256 Inline 6.

The lower prices (C, GLC) M256 engine models will probably be called 53 along with the higher priced (E/S/SL) models. Both will probably use the exact same engine but the higher priced ones will include a hybrid electric supplemental engine which would increase its power output and acceleration.

The M256 designed was announced already producing around 430hp before they even announced it would be hybrid. I do not think a 430hp tune you are mentioning requires a hybrid generator

The V6 M276 will likely stop production after this generation of mercedes.