AMG has been offering four-cylinder models like the CLA45 and GLA45 for years, but for many purists, these 2.0-liter engines just don't cut it. The uproar grew louder with the introduction of the latest C63 and GLC63, now also four-bangers, albeit with powerful plug-in hybrid setups. Yet, despite the initial reluctance, Mercedes is confident that enthusiasts will warm up to these downsized powertrains.

In a conversation with Australian magazine Carsales, Mercedes' top executive Down Under, Jaime Cohen, likened the acceptance of four-cylinder plug-in hybrids to the early days of buttonless smartphones. "I was one who missed the phone with the keyboard. How can it sell without a keyboard? Well, here's one without a keyboard," Cohen said. "So that progress takes some time and, in the end, it is successful because it is a good product and that is what convinces people. I don't think there is an issue, it's a transition, and transitions always take time and always take some convincing and experience."

Cohen drew parallels with the shift from manual to automatic transmissions. "When we first moved not, everyone was convinced about our automatic transmissions. But eventually now… everyone has one," he noted. While some premium brands like BMW still offer manual options for several M models, the trend has undeniably swung towards automatics.

Cohen isn't the only Mercedes executive defending this shift. Last month, AMG boss Michael Schiebe acknowledged that "for some customers, they take time to really be excited for the technology." He emphasized the importance of being open-minded when it comes to new technology.

Back in December, the head of Mercedes' performance division in Affalterbach confirmed that AMG plans to stick with the downsized setup, describing it as "very, very progressive." Despite rumors, the C63 won’t revert to a V-8, and the next E63 won’t have eight cylinders either. While the details of the CLE63’s powertrain remain under wraps, Schiebe assures us that the company "took the right decision" and that we should be "excited" for its debut. The CLE63 coupe and convertible are set to replace the two-door C63 and E63 models.

As we saw with smartphones, change can be jarring. But, if Mercedes’ predictions hold true, we might just find ourselves embracing these four-cylinder AMGs with the same enthusiasm we now have for our sleek, buttonless gadgets.