AMG mulls diesel models

Posted Fri Jan 25 2008 10:52 AM by Ralph Hanson

Now that AMG is no longer focused on chasing big horsepower numbers, efficiency could quickly become the new performance benchmark for the Affalterbach-based tuner. Audi has laid the groundwork for the acceptance of diesel powertrains in performance circles with its stunning V12 TDI Concept and R10 race cars, now Mercedes-Benz tuner AMG is considering adding diesel models to its arsenal.

Last year, rumors surfaced claiming AMG may launch a Bluetec diesel SUV but since then nothing really has eventuated on that front. Those rumors came about following comments from AMG exec Volker Mornhinweg, stating “in the near future AMG has the opportunity for both hybrids and diesels.”

Now, AutoExpress is reporting that AMG is close to releasing a new diesel fueled car. AMG will be launching five facelifted models over the next 12 months and any one of these could potentially feature a high output diesel powertrain. Some of the cars due to for an update include the new SL, CLS and M-Class, the latter being the most likely candidate for a diesel.

Reader Comments

Fri Jan 25 2008 11:11 AM
Baumm III says

This first ever Diesel AMG was already launch back in 2000
It was a 5 cyl 3.0L 231 HP sportcoupÃ© hatchback
Fri Jan 25 2008 11:13 AM
Baumm III says

the name of that car was MERCEDES C30 CDI AMG
Fri Jan 25 2008 11:43 AM
admin says

Yes we aware of the C30 CDI but there are no diesels in AMGâ€™s current lineup. Also, with a 0-60mph time of just under 7 seconds we feel â€“ and weâ€™re sure many readers would too â€“ that the C30 is hardly fit to wear an AMG badge at all.
Fri Jan 25 2008 12:45 PM
NaBUru38 says

I've checked the most powerful diesels in Europe. The A8, 7 Series and S-CLass feature 4.0+ V8, which produce more than 320hp. 0-100km/h times are 5.9s n the A8 and 6.6s in the other two (remember the aluminuum chassis) The Touareg V10 5.0 develops only 313hp.

Now comparing 3.0-liter six cylinders, BMW beats Audi and Mercedes thanks to the twin turbo: 286hp vs 239 and 235. Twin-turbo V8 diesels may match big, thirsty gasoline engines.
Fri Jan 25 2008 1:33 PM
Saif says

What about the R8 V12 TDI?
Fri Jan 25 2008 2:24 PM
Gus says

I think diesels can be made into torque monsters, and I luuuuuuv torque... :)
Fri Jan 25 2008 3:33 PM
mlevere1992 says

The question also has to be asked, with all of that HP where is the MPG statistics? This article talks about AMG not focusing on HP but start to focus on efficiency. Large HP numbers with realistic MPG would be great. The Audi R8 Makes great HP but still gets 30 MPG. That is unheard of for a super car. Don't most of them get like 12 MPG?

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