V12 is found in Mercedes S65
Mercedes could ditch V12 engines from its high-performance range, according to reports from Germany. The carmaker is apparently planning to ditch its twelve-cylinder lumps in favour of smaller, lighter and more efficient turbocharged V8s.
The move follows a report that BMW is looking to downsize the units in its M3 from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged six-cylinder. Audi has already moved to a V6 unit in its S4 range.
According to Germany’s Autobild, Mercedes has already started developing future models without sufficient space for a V12, which would mean the strategy is long term. In April Car magazine reported that the current 6.2-litre V8, which is available from the C-Class up, will be downsized to a twin-turbo 5.0-litre V8.
But it is not all bad news because the turbocharged V8 that could replace the V12 is said to be even more powerful, possibly with up to 700bhp.
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