If you’re a car enthusiast or someone who admires Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance models, you’ve likely heard the buzz around the company’s latest plan to phase out several of its 4-cylinder AMG models by 2026. This news is stirring up quite a conversation among car fans, especially those who love the thrill of small, turbocharged engines synonymous with sporty driving. It marks a significant shift in Mercedes’ strategy, leaning away from smaller four-cylinder AMG cars, especially in Europe, where new noise and emission regulations are pushing automakers to rethink their performance lineup.
If you’ve been eyeing models like the AMG C43 or GLC43, this development might make you wonder about your options in the near future. So, what exactly is happening, and what can you expect going forward? Let’s dive into the latest updates and what they mean for you as a Mercedes fan.
Mercedes to End Several 4-Cylinder AMG Models by 2026
Mercedes has announced plans to discontinue several of its 4-cylinder AMG models, mainly due to new European Union noise regulations hitting from 2026. The regulations are designed to cut down on noise pollution in urban areas by limiting external engine sounds. As a result, high-performance models equipped with smaller engines, like the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engines, are under threat of being phased out.
This is part of a larger trend where Mercedes and other automakers are shifting focus from small-engined, turbocharged performance cars toward larger, more powerful engines, such as six-cylinder and V8s. Mercedes-Benz’s move seems aimed at aligning with stricter emissions standards and regulatory demands, but it’s also prompting questions about the future of sporty, smaller models.
Mercedes Several 4-Cylinder AMG Models Overview
| Aspect | Details |
| Why Ending Production | New European Union noise regulations set to reduce allowed external sound levels in 2026. |
| Affected Models | AMG C43, GLC43, and GLA35 (all 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder) end production Feb 2026. |
| Models Ending Later | AMG C63 and GLC63 plug-in hybrids continue until May 2026. |
| Models Not Affected | AMG GLA45 S and larger six- and eight-cylinder AMG models (e.g., G63 SUV) continue. |
| Reason Beyond Noise Rules | Mixed factors including weak sales of some four-cylinder AMG PHEVs and shift to bigger engines. |
| Future Direction | Focus on six-cylinder, V8 engines and electrified AMG models; new V8 engines expected. |
| Market Impact | European markets most affected; some markets like Australia may continue four-cylinder AMG. |
| Official Website | https://www.mercedes-benz.com/ |
The Models Under Threat
Based on the latest news, production of key models is expected to end by 2026, with some of the most popular AMG models included:
| Model | Engine Type | Expected Discontinuation Date |
| AMG C43 | 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder | February 2026 |
| AMG GLC43 | 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder | February 2026 |
| AMG GLA35 | 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder | February 2026 |
But not all models are affected the same way. The more powerful plug-in hybrids, like the AMG C63 S E Performance and GLC63 S, are expected to stick around until May 2026, mainly because they are hybrid models and may meet noise regulations differently. Interestingly, the high-performance GLA45 S and other V8-powered models are not immediately threatened and could continue, sparking speculation about Mercedes returning to exclusively six and eight-cylinder engines for their top-tier models.
What’s Behind the Change?
The primary reason behind Mercedes’ decision is the upcoming European noise regulations set to take effect in July 2026. These rules aim to reduce noise pollution by lowering permissible external engine sounds, which particularly affects turbocharged four-cylinder AMG models. Many owners and fans have criticized these models for sounding artificial or muted, which seems to be part of their declining appeal.
Besides regulatory pressures, Mercedes is also repositioning its lineup toward larger, more aggressive engines like six and eight cylinders, which remain popular with enthusiasts for their richer sound and superior performance feel. The move aligns with competitors like BMW and Audi, which continue to offer six- and eight-cylinder engines in their high-performance models.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’ve been considering buying a Mercedes-AMG with a four-cylinder engine, now might be the right time to act before they are officially discontinued. However, if you already own one, this news suggests that your vehicle could become a rare, collectible gem as remaining stock dwindles.
For potential buyers, the future looks like a shift toward larger engines and perhaps more V8s or hybrid powertrains. Mercedes is investing heavily in electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, so alternative high-performance options may soon be more electric or hybrid-centric.
What Are Your Next Options?
While the loss of many beloved four-cylinder AMG models might seem disappointing, Mercedes’ move might also push you to explore newer or upcoming models. The 2026 Mercedes-AMG GT 63, for example, is expected to feature cutting-edge technology, impressive styling, and possibly hybrid configurations that meet stricter noise and emission standards.
Additionally, Mercedes is developing concepts like the AMG GT XX and other future models, promising high-tech features and exclusive performance capabilities that could appeal to enthusiasts who want something more modern and compliant with upcoming regulations.
This shift in Mercedes’ lineup signifies more than just the end of a few models; it highlights how automotive regulations, consumer preferences, and technological advances are shaping the future of high-performance cars. If you love driving sporty Mercedes-AMGs, especially the smaller, turbocharged variants, you’ll want to keep an eye on what’s coming next. The good news is, Mercedes isn’t ditching performance altogether—they’re evolving it, mainly through larger engines and electrification, promising exciting developments ahead.
Whether you’re a current owner or considering a future purchase, this news might influence your choices, urging you to act fast or wait for the next big innovation from Mercedes-Benz. It’s an exciting, yet bittersweet chapter for fans of the brand’s iconic small-bore AMG models.
FAQ’s
Q1: Will Mercedes stop making all four-cylinder AMG models after 2026?
Most likely, yes. Reports indicate that several AMG models with 2.0-liter turbocharged engines will be discontinued due to new noise regulations, but more powerful hybrid and V8 models may continue.
Q2: Are V8 models also being discontinued?
Not immediately. V8 models like the Mercedes-AMG G63 and SL63 are expected to remain in the lineup for now, as Mercedes shifts toward larger engines and electrified powertrains.
Q3: What will replace these discontinued models?
Mercedes is expected to focus on hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric high-performance vehicles, possibly with larger engines and more tech features that comply with future regulations.
