Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid Debuts with a Whopping 603 Horsepower

The Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid 4Matic+: A Performance-Oriented Variant of the Mercedes E-Class

Mercedes has unveiled the first performance-oriented version of the new-generation W214 E-Class, developed by AMG. The E53 Hybrid 4Matic+ is offered in both sedan and estate body styles, featuring a more aggressive look, a stiffer chassis, and up to 603 horsepower on tap.

While positioned below the upcoming E63 performance flagship (which will also feature a PHEV powertrain), the E53 represents a significant step up from its predecessor in terms of power and performance.

The plug-in hybrid system consists of a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six gasoline engine producing 443 horsepower and an electric motor delivering 161 horsepower. This is paired with an AMG Speedshift TCT 9G nine-speed automatic transmission, resulting in a combined output of 577 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via the fully variable 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system. However, the optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package boosts maximum output to 603 horsepower when Race Start mode is activated.

As a result, the sedan can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, an improvement of 0.7 seconds over the previous E53 and only 0.6 seconds slower than the V8-powered E63 S. With the optional AMG Driver’s Package, top speed is electronically limited to 174 mph for the sedan and 171 mph for the estate.

Thanks to its plug-in hybrid powertrain, the Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid can travel purely on electric power, although the top speed is limited to 87 mph. The battery pack has a capacity of 21.22 kWh, giving the car an electric-only range of between 56-63 miles, according to WLTP standards. With the optional 60 kW DC fast charger, the battery can be charged from 10 to 80% in around 20 minutes.

The E53 Hybrid 4Matic+ benefits from all the AMG treatment, including a stiffer chassis, a sport suspension with adaptive damping, high-performance brakes, and a rear-axle steering system. The AMG Dynamic Plus Package adds an electronically controlled rear differential lock, larger composite brakes at the front, and the Race Start function.

In terms of design, the E53 Hybrid 4Matic+ is distinguished from lesser E-Class variants by the signature AMG illuminated grille and larger air intakes in the front bumper. It also rides on a new design of 19-inch alloy wheels, with 20-inch and 21-inch wheels available as options.

At the rear, the quad exhaust pipes and a spoiler lip further differentiate it from the less powerful AMG Line versions.

Inside, the E53 Hybrid 4Matic+ features AMG sport seats with power adjustment, upholstered in a combination of Artico man-made leather and microfiber with contrasting red stitching. The AMG steering wheel is wrapped in Nappa leather, while the dashboard is trimmed in wood. The infotainment system features AMG-specific displays and hybrid-specific screens.

The Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid 4Matic+ will soon be available to order in Europe, with a fully equipped “Edition 1” version also on offer.