Mercedes-Benz could phase out 5.5-litre V8 engine by 2016

Come 2016 and Mercedes-Benz could replace its 5.5-litre V8 unit in favour of the new twin-turbo 4-litre V8. According to a report by Autocar UK, the 5.5-litre unit will not be put to use in any new Mercedes model after next year. 

Known for its strong power delivery and a throaty soundtrack, the 5.5-litre M157 unit was introduced only in 2011. Going by the report, it will be replaced with the new twin-turbo, 4-litre V8 seen in the Mercedes AMG GT sports car. The latter is a cleaner, more efficient unit compared to the M157 unit. 

Alongside the upcoming GLE coupe, it seems the S-Class coupe, which is due for reveal in 2016, will be the last of Mercedes models to use the 5.5-litre V8 engine.

Among Mercedes-Benz AMG’s range here in the Indian market, this 5.5-litre unit is used in the E63 AMG, the SLK 55 AMG, the GL 63 AMG and the ML 63 AMG.  

Source: AutocarUK