Mercedes-AMG has released its new hybrid E53 sedan and wagon duo, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six and 120kW electric motor combination. The resulting 576hp is 14 more than the outgoing model, and just 27 shy of the current range-topping E63. This means 0-100kph is dispatched within four seconds en route to a top speed of 278kph.
You also get 750Nm of torque, channelled through Merc’s now seemingly standard 9G automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system. They’ll work alongside the adaptive dampers to switch between firm, comfortable and ‘don’t you dare fall asleep at the wheel’.
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The battery is a 28.6kWh unit that contributes to an all-electric range of around 100 kilometers, which can be regained in a 20-minute stop if you choose the optional 60kW charger. Otherwise, you get an 11kW cable as standard.
Let’s talk exterior design, and since the E53 is the penultimate model in the range, you still get a stealthy radiator grille, wide wheel arches, and properly defined air inlets. Take a step back, and you start to notice the added presence of the wide front track. The AMG cues continue along the flanks via the side skirts and down to the super aggressive, million-spoke 19/20-inch alloys. Good luck trying to clean those.
Mercedes’ now familiar triangular bulb cluster out back is also present, and forms part of the light bar adopted more prominently across its lineup these days. There’s the obligatory quad-exhaust, and massive rear wing that’ll work together with the four-slot diffuser to create some added downforce.
We’re also quite partial to the marque’s current cockpit design, and the E53 continues its strong form. You get plenty of ambient mood lighting strips across the interior, with the dashboard comprising the MBUX infotainment unit and an AMG nebula on the passenger’s side.
The driver’s half looks pretty futuristic, what with the gadget-packed Nappa leather steering wheel, of which you’ll use all of three buttons, and the digitalized interface upfront. It’s all very James Bond-esque. You’ve also got a carbon-infused central reservation, filled with cubbyholes to stow away your bow ties.
From launch, Mercedes is also offering two special trim levels for the E53: the first being the ‘Dynamic Plus’ package. Here, you’ll get slightly swankier interior materials, red brake calipers, and a ‘Race Start’ launch control function, which gives you a momentary power boost to 603hp (identical to the current E63).
Alternatively, you can have the ‘Edition One,’ which builds on the Dynamic Plus with additional paint schemes, larger 21in alloys and various AMG-themed vinyls across the exterior. You also get a bit more carbon fibre in places, like the oversized rear wing.
NOTE: This story first appeared on TopGear.com. Minor edits have been made.
