A performance version of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is now available in South Africa. Badged as the E53, this performance plug-in hybrid sports a new drivetrain and comes with impressive performance figures. Here are the details surrounding the latest model!
Related: Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ SA pricing revealed
Drivetrain
The E53 is powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine paired with an E-synchronous motor. This pair generates a system output of 430 kW (450 kW with Race Start) and 750 Nm of torque. The car will go from 0 to 100 km/h using the aforementioned launch control in a claimed 3.8 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 280 km/h and 140 km/h in EV mode.
The electric component is a 28.6 kWh battery, with some energy reserved for a power boost. This makes the usable energy 21.22 kWh, for an all-electric driving range of around 100 kilometres.
Charging
The E53 has an 11 kW AC charger on board and an optional 60 kW DC fast charger, allowing the battery to go from 10% to 80% in approximately 20 minutes. The energy recuperation system can recover up to 120 kW in DAuto mode. The driver can manually adjust recuperation in three levels via the steering wheel paddles, offering a "one-pedal feeling" in D-mode.
Performance upgrades
Other performance upgrades include a reinforced body shell with numerous stiffening measures, including a strut brace and thrust field. The AMG Ride Control steel spring suspension has been specifically tuned for the hybrid drivetrain, with adaptive damping and three selectable levels: "Comfort," "Sport," and "Sport+,".
The AMG high-performance sports brake system features internally ventilated discs (370x36 mm front, 360x26 mm rear) and an electromechanical brake booster that integrates electric recuperation with hydraulic braking. Standard active rear-axle steering further boosts agility at lower speeds and stability at higher speeds.
Design and Interior
The new performance E-Class features an illuminated AMG-specific radiator grille, wider front fenders (+11 mm per side), and an AMG front apron. Hybrid-specific badges on the fenders and rear subtly hint at its new energy drivetrain, while 19-inch alloy wheels are standard with 20-inch and 21-inch forged wheels available as an option.
Inside, an illuminated grey open-pore ash wood trim with an AMG logo is standard, while the MBUX Superscreen with a passenger monitor is an option. The MBUX multimedia system features AMG-specific displays, AMG Performance and AMG Track Pace menus, and hybrid-specific charging and range information.
Electrically adjustable AMG sports seats in Artico man-made leather and microfibre with red contrasting topstitching are standard, and AMG performance seats are optional. The AMG performance steering wheel in Nappa leather with AMG steering wheel buttons completes the interior performance upgrades.
Pricing*
Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid 4Matic+: R 2 499 596
*Pricing includes a 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan
