Keeping both motoring enthusiasts and company execs happy is no simple task. It would seem that new Mercedes-Benz AMG head Tobias Moers has already mastered the art, as he’s able to reveal info that delights fans without revealing too much.
In an interview with Motor Trend, Moers gave more information than most executives give in a whole year. Cheers, Tobias.
Moers confirmed that the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 is done for, and the replacement will be revealed at the 2014 New York Auto Show. Moers made it clear that the replacement will not top the 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8, which puts out 550 horsepower. Sad news indeed.
Speaking of New York, Moers also said that a new sports car, called the GT AMG, will also be unveiled at the auto show. The new sports car will feature a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 and will cost less than the gullwing SLS.
The news gets even better: AMG versions of the new S-Class Coupe will also make the trip to the Big Apple. Geneva’s not even over yet and I’m already chomping at the bit for New York.
Mr. Moers was also asked about the best-selling AMG in America, the G65. AMG’s captain said the group is working on bringing the 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 Stateside. AMG’s main obstacle to this is safety. But let’s face it; no matter how unsafe a V12-powered car is, you would drive it.
When asked about the possibility of a C- or E-Class with an AMG V6, Moers replied, “Why would you want a [six-cylinder]?” … Touché, Mr. Moers.
Finally, the head of the company said that AMG will continue to make a V12 as long as there is a market for the engine, but hinted that a plug-in hybrid might be needed to keep up with the times.
