The German carmaker unveiled the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class last year and added an AMG version. A six-cylinder super sedan with 603 horsepower, powerful appearance, and an opulent interior, meet the new E53 Hybrid 4Matic+.

Sleek enough to astonish owners of the departing E63 and luxurious enough to wow S-Class owners, the E53 represents a major improvement over its predecessor in every way. This electrifying performer, which is also available with a wagon body style, deserves a deeper examination.

Electrified Inline-6: Astonishing Performance Is Promised

577 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque are produced by the combination of a permanently excited E-synchronous motor and a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. The AMG Dynamic Plus Package’s Race Start launch control feature increases power to 603 horsepower and reduces 0-62 mph time to 3.8 seconds. Unless you opt for the AMG Driver’s Package, which raises the top speed to 174 mph, the maximum speed is only 155 mph.

According to Mercedes, the E53 Hybrid can reach top speeds of 87 mph while running solely on electricity. As with rival BMW’s 550e plug-in hybrid, the electric motor is integrated into the nine-speed AMG Speedshift TCT transmission.

The battery is located beneath the trunk floor and has a gross capacity of 28.6 kWh. In approximately 20 minutes, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% when connected to a 60 kW DC fast charger. Included in the package is regenerative braking, which enables the car to stop without ever applying the brakes.

Several Drive Modes And Precise Control

Through the AMG Dynamic Select software, there are multiple drive modes available. Consumers can select among Electric and Battery Hold programs in addition to standard settings including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual, and Smoothness.

With its 161-hp electric powertrain, the E53 Hybrid is said to have an electric range of almost 62 miles. However, we anticipate that EPA projections will be less optimistic. The E53’s electric motor and combustion engine operate together without depleting the battery’s charge level when the Battery Hold mode is activated. This implies that when necessary, such as in low-emission areas and urban areas, drivers can preserve the electric range.

The specially designed AMG Ride Control suspension with variable damping, which provides a nice balance of sporty handling and comfort, turns it into a driving thrill. Compared to the E-Class on which it is based, the front axle’s track width is wider, and the rear axle gains from firmer rubber mount elastokinemetics.

Improved Dynamics of Driving Provide An Exciting Journey

For improved lateral dynamics, Mercedes-AMG even installed a new strut brace between the front suspension strut mounts to further reinforce the body shell. Similarly, more struts connecting the rear to the side components enable increased stability and improved driving accuracy.

Rear-axle steering is standard on the E53 Hybrid, which improves agility and maneuverability. The rear axle steers in the same direction as the front wheels over 62 mph and in the opposite direction while traveling below 62 mph.

Every wheel is adjusted by the two-valve adjustable damping in accordance with the driving circumstances and state of the road. Three pre-selected settings are available: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The front and rear 14.1-inch and 14.5-inch vented brake discs provide stopping power, respectively.

Remarkably Restrained Exterior Design

Comparing the Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid 4Matic+ to other modern Mercedes cars, it is comparatively more understated. The AMG radiator grille with vertical slats is lit when viewed from the front of the E53. The carmaker used more noticeable air inlets in the sporty front bumper and flared front fenders to give the performance sedan a more muscular appearance.

The AMG-specific side skirts give the E53 a more functional appearance. Customers have the option to request 20- or 21-inch forged wheels in addition to the standard 19-inch wheels. Standard features include a revised rear bumper with quad tailpipes and an integrated diffuser, as well as an AMG lip spoiler. Overall, the AMG’s style is significantly more appealing than the standard E-Class’s.

The inside is oozing with elegance and cutting-edge features, as one might anticipate. However, AMG has customized the cabin in its own way.