Mercedes-AMG Phasing Out V-12 Engines

Daimler AG’s Mercedes-AMG performance unit is phasing out V-12 engines from its lineup.

The last V-12 model, the AMG S65 large car, will be dropped at the end of its lifecycle, Mercedes-AMG Tobias Moers boss tells GoAuto. The current third-generation model—available in sedan, coupe and convertible variants with a 6.0-liter V-12—was introduced in 2014.

Mercedes-AMG already discontinued V-12 variants of its G-Class and SL models. The company also has downsized its V-8 offerings from 6.3- and 5.5-liters to a twin-turbo 4.0-liter mill to help meet fuel efficiency and emissions regulations.

Moers doesn’t expect any further downsizing of the V-8 engine in the foreseeable future as the engine increasingly is teamed with electric motors in hybrid applications. Previewed by the 2017 GT concept (pictured), the hybrid set-up can generate as much as 800 hp while providing improved fuel efficiency.