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In the past year, Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance division, AMG, has unveiled a series of impressive new electric models, including the flagship AMG GT four-door and the stylish CLA AMG, which unfortunately will not be available in the United States. However, the brand’s once-iconic V-8-powered C63 and E63 models—long considered the heart of Mercedes-AMG’s performance lineup—are still missing from the current range. That could change soon, but according to Mercedes board member Mathias Geisen, there were other priorities to address first.

“Stay tuned,” Geisen said during a roundtable discussion with Road & Track on Tuesday. “One step at a time. First, we need to ensure we have a highly refined and advanced V-8 engine, and naturally, we’re also evaluating market demand and planning where else it could be applied.”

Geisen’s remark about a “sophisticated V-8” refers to Mercedes-Benz’s new flat-plane crank engine, which is gradually being introduced across its lineup after debuting in the updated S-Class. That launch appears to have been a notable success, and it could pave the way for the long-anticipated return of V-8 engines in AMG’s core performance models in the near future.

The C63 badge is expected to be phased out soon, following the discontinuation of its short-lived plug-in hybrid variant powered by a four-cylinder engine that will soon fall out of regulatory compliance in Europe. Meanwhile, AMG has not produced a vehicle carrying the E63 AMG badge since the previous generation’s V-8 model ended production in 2022. Persistent rumours have indicated that both models may be revived with new V-8 powertrains, though Geisen refrained from confirming this development during his latest comments.

For now, those seeking a more potent C-Class option can look forward to the upcoming AMG version featuring an inline-six engine, which was officially confirmed in February. Based on AMG’s traditional naming conventions, this model is expected to be branded as the C53 AMG, leaving room in the lineup for the eventual return of a V-8 model. Additionally, Mercedes-AMG leadership has already confirmed that the CLE coupe will receive a V-8 variant, ensuring that at least one upcoming car in the range will benefit from the extra cylinders.