Aston Martin Reportedly Eyeing Mercedes’ Six-Cylinder Engine

Aston Martin recently introduced a DB11 with a Mercedes-AMG sourced twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine and it appears the company is also eyeing the brand’s new six-cylinder engine.

Speaking with Drive, DB11 Vehicle Line Director Paul Barritt said “We’re watching everything that they’re doing and there are certain things in place” with the agreement between the two companies. He went on to say “You can see the direction of travel within the industry and we’d be foolish not to be looking at the sixes, and we’re still looking at eights and twelves.”

It’s been awhile since Aston Martin offered a six-cylinder engine but increasing fuel economy and emission standards could eventually usher in their return. Aston Martin CEO Andy Palmer recently confirmed the company will be “100 percent hybrid by the middle of the 2020s” and Mercedes could help them get there with their new hybridized six-cylinder engine that is expected to debut in the CLS 53.

The model is expected to have a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 429 hp (320 kW) and an electric motor that contributes an additional 67 hp (50 kW). This would give the vehicle a combined output of up to 496 hp (370 kW).

Barritt said the upcoming powertrain is “really interesting” and has “plenty of potential.”