Note: Future Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG pictured here.

The old adage, “no replacement for displacement” continues to hobble along on its last leg these days. And with no thanks to Mercedes->ke187, it seems the adage will be getting weaker in 2016. The next version of the C63 AMG will drop the beastly 6.3-liter V-8 for a smaller, more powerful, and likely more efficient twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 making almost 30 more horsepower, bringing the total count to around 480.

Power will still be sent to the rear wheels, though through a traditional automatic transmission and not the 7-speed dual-clutch techno-box in the current C63 AMG. The automaker cites lower costs and a lack of consumer demand for the switch, a Mercedes source told Leftlane News.

The new turbocharged powertrain helps poise the C63 directly against the BMW M3 and M4 pair. Upping the ante even further, Mercedes continued spilling the beans to Leftlane about a range-topping S version that will come with more power, upgraded brakes, and unique visual attributes.

The report continues, indicating the C63 will be offered as a sedan, coupe, convertible, and even a wagon. Of course, the AMG version of each will include performance add-ons, bespoke wheels, stickier rubber, and a sport suspension with a lowered stance. A performance-oriented cabin with heavily bolstered seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and an AMG-specific instrument cluster will likely be present as well.

We’re expecting the C63 AMG to make its first appearance at the Paris Motor Show->ke227 this October with sales beginning the last quarter of 2015 as a 2016 model.

Click past the jump to read more about the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S.

2015 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S

Specifications
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  • Model: 2015 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG S
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Since the introduction of the new 2015 C-Class, the AMG version has been the inevitable next step. Seen here dressed in swirly camo, the AMG sports a larger air intake for cooling the twin-turbo V-8 slated for the engine bay. The front chin has a small lip that should help aerodynamics. The rocker panel is likely to have some changes to it as well, since the camo extends down low along the side. Out back, the rear bumper appears to have a revised look, as does the rear deck lid. And those quad exhaust tips are menacing, to say the least.

Competition

The BMW M3 and M4 are the C63 AMG’s main competitors. Powered by a 3.0-liter, inline six featuring twin turbos, 425 horsepower, and 406 pound-feet of torque, the BMW cars move with purpose. They zip from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 4.1-seconds on their way to a top speed of an electronically limited 155 mph.

The two sets of cars will offer three different body styles. The M3 will stick with the four-door sedan look while the M4 will be offered in two-door coupe or convertible setup.

Pricing for the BMW->ke178 M3 starts at $62,925 while the M4 starts at $64,200.

BMW M3

BMW M4

About AMG