Alongside the ICE World: Mercedes Brings Electric-Only C-Class EQ––Even in AMG Guise
In 2027, Mercedes will once again raise the bar with the launch of its highly anticipated next-generation all-electric compact sedan. The new Mercedes C-Class EQ will embody cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and the brand's commitment to a greener automotive future.
The Mercedes C-Class EQ boasts a sleek, aerodynamic design that seamlessly combines elegance with functionality. The exterior features distinctive LED lighting elements, a sculpted front grille, and a futuristic silhouette, signaling a departure from conventional internal combustion engine designs.
Powered by advanced electric drivetrain technology, the C-Class EQ delivers exhilarating performance without compromising efficiency. The electric powertrain ensures instant torque, enabling rapid acceleration and a quiet driving experience. The '27 C-Class EQ will be equipped with a state-of-the-art battery system that provides an impressive range on a single charge, making it a practical choice for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.
In line with Mercedes-Benz's commitment to sustainability, the electric C-Class incorporates eco-friendly materials in its interior design. The cabin features responsibly sourced wood accents, recycled textiles and environmentally conscious materials, setting a new standard for luxury vehicles that prioritize the planet.
The new Mercedes C-Class EQ is equipped with the latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system. A large touchscreen interface, intuitive voice controls and seamless smartphone integration provide a futuristic, user-friendly driving experience. Additionally, the car is equipped with advanced driver-assistance features, including autonomous driving capabilities, for a safer and more relaxed journey.
Mercedes has invested heavily in expanding electric charging infrastructure, ensuring C-Class EQ owners have convenient access to a robust network of charging stations. With fast-charging capabilities, the C-Class can recharge a significant portion of its battery in a short amount of time, minimizing downtime and enhancing the overall ownership experience.
As the electric Mercedes C-Class will be competitively priced, sustainable luxury will become accessible to a broader market. It will be available in various trim levels, allowing customers to choose the features that best suit their preferences. The vehicle is set to roll out in key global markets, with a phased release plan to meet growing demand.
Our exclusive spy shots reveal that the upcoming '27 Mercedes-AMG C-Class is shifting toward a radical high-performance electric architecture. The EV model will ride on the specialized MB.EA-M platform (Mercedes-Benz Electric Architecture Mid-Size). Rumors indicate the top-tier configuration will produce well in excess of 600 hp, driven by advanced YASA axial-flux motors (two at the rear and one at the front). The electric AMG is undergoing rigorous mountain testing, with an official debut expected for the '27 model year.
Back to V8: Makeover for Mercedes-AMG CLE 63
There are changes to the Mercedes CLE coupe at both the front and rear, but it is still not a major makeover for the car. An expanded Panamericana-style grille, new lower inlets and headlights that gain the star-logo LED running lamp first seen on the Concept CLA a few years ago appear to account for the updates to the front end--both for the standard CLE and its AMG-powered cousins bearing the 53 and 63 badges.
Changes at the rear include new taillights, once again featuring those stars. The lower bumper layout has also been revised slightly.
We can't see much of the new car's interior, but one change is clearly visible. It features a new steering wheel, adopting Mercedes-Benz's latest design with the return of physical controls instead of haptic touchpads. There should be some software updates and possibly hardware changes, but the screens themselves, along with the rest of the dashboard, appear unchanged.
CarBuzz spies report that the new car will get a V8 for the first time. The car, which launched in 2023 as a successor to both the C-Class and E-Class coupes, arrived with a 3.0L inline-six badged as the CLE 53. This time around, it's expected to retain that engine, which now produces 443 hp. But there's an even more powerful option on the way.
AMG's V8-powered CLE 63 will get the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 that first debuted in the S-Class sedan earlier this year. It's an evolution of Mercedes-Benz's existing V8 engines and features a high-revving flat-plane crankshaft. The engine is expected to produce around 600 hp in the CLE 63, leaving room above it for the Mythos performance model that AMG has been teasing. That model could produce 650 hp or more when it arrives.
Mercedes-AMG is slowly phasing out its attempts to replace V8s with a 2.0L four-cylinder. The C63 equipped with that engine and plug-in hybrid system made more power than the V8, but buyers didn't care. They wanted the sound, not the impressive 469hp 2.0L.
In 2025, AMG boss Michael Scheibe remarked that, "We see that some of our very loyal customers struggle a bit with the concept. Of course, no doubt we have also lost some customers who are just into V8s."
The facelift is expected to be revealed later this year and will likely go on sale in early 2027. Mercedes-Benz is in the midst of a major product offensive that includes 30 new or refreshed vehicles by the end of 2027.
Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia
