With a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor for a power output of 585 hp, the new delivery of the German brand from Affalterbach presents two new AMG plug-in hybrid models with high performance, exceptional comfort and a long electric range.
Mercedes-Benz surprises once again with a new model with a sporty character in both saloon and estate versions. The combination of the 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder engine and the permanently excited synchronous motor develops a maximum system output of 430 kW (585 hp) with RACE START function, capable of up to 450 kW/612 hp and a maximum system torque of 750 Nm.
Performance is extraordinarily dynamic with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds in the saloon version with RACE START function and part of the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package. The top speed is electronically limited to 280 km/h, while it is possible to drive up to 140 km/h purely electrically.
The 120 kW electric motor is integrated into the space-saving AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission. The high power density of the hybrid drive unit is achieved thanks to permanently excited internal rotor synchronous technology. The electric motor’s maximum torque of 480 Nm is available from the very first moment and ensures great agility even when starting off. The 400-volt battery has a gross capacity of 28.6 kWh and is installed in the rear under the luggage compartment floor. The daily usable energy content is less than 21.22 kWh, as part of the energy is always reserved for supercharging and thus for high-performance driving. However, the high-voltage battery allows an electric range of up to more than 100 kilometres.
On board is a charger with an output of 11 kW for charging with alternating current. In addition, a 60 kW DC fast charger is available on request. An 11 kW on-board charger is available for AC charging and a 60 kW DC fast charger is available on request, allowing the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in about 20 minutes. In DAuto mode, the system automatically selects the level of recuperation power according to the traffic situation. If the recuperation power is to be selected directly, it is possible to select it in three levels with the push buttons behind the steering wheel. In the D- programme, the driver experiences the “one-pedal feeling”. If he takes his foot off the accelerator, the vehicle decelerates purely electrically to such an extent that the hydraulic foot brake is often not even needed.
The basis for the sporty and efficient drive is the proven AMG 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. The E 53 HYBRID 4MATIC+ delivers 330 kW (449 hp). Compared to the previous version of the E 53 of the W213 series, this represents an increase of 10 kW (14 hp). Numerous software and hardware measures contribute to increased performance. These include a new twin-scroll exhaust gas turbocharger with higher boost pressure (1.5 bar instead of the previous 1.1 bar). The upgrade also includes new software, an additional front radiator and a radiator in front of the wheel arch. The result of these improvements is that the engine reacts instantaneously to throttle pedal commands, thus offering a very dynamic response.
A stronger structure for greater security
In view of the high dynamic potential of the powertrain, the body has been modified with numerous reinforcement measures. A turret bar in the front suspension reinforces the structure and improves lateral dynamics and the reinforced structure under the engine improves steering precision by reducing front-end torque. It is connected to the longitudinal members by means of additional cross members, so that the rear end obtains greater stability and driving precision.
Aesthetically, the new Mercedes-AMG E 53 HYBRID 4MATIC+ is recognisable by numerous special design elements. The AMG-specific radiator trim with vertical louvres is illuminated as standard, the wider front wheel arches make room for the larger track width of the front axle, the powerful exterior air intakes, each with two vertical fins, and the central A-wing characterise the separate AMG front bumper.
The side view is characterised by fluidly shaped surfaces, free of ridges and edges, extending all the way to the flush door handles. AMG-specific side sills visually link the two wheel arches. The light-alloy wheels, almost flush with the body, accentuate power and dynamism. Flat, horizontally connected LED tail lights with clear, striking graphics in the stylised star signature are precisely embedded in the powerful rear end. The AMG spoiler on the saloon’s boot lid and the AMG rear diffuser with twin tailpipes on the left and right are the finishing touches.
In principle, the light alloy wheels are 19-inch wheels, with 20-inch wheels and 21-inch diameter forged wheels available as an option. The cabin design impresses with its harmonious overall impression. As standard, the E 53 HYBRID is fitted with a special illuminated trim in open-pore grey ash wood with the AMG logo. The MBUX Superscreen system with passenger monitor is available as an option and the MBUX multimedia system offers AMG-specific displays and functions as well as the optional additional and exclusive AMG Performance and AMG TRACK PACE menu content. In addition to this, hybrid-specific displays and functions provide an absolutely exceptional level of information.
Electrically adjustable AMG sports seats are standard and the upholstery is covered in ARTICO leatherette/MICROCUT microfibre with red contrast stitching and an exclusive AMG graphic to emphasise the sporty character of the car. Electrically adjustable AMG Performance seats can be ordered as an option. The basic equipment includes the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather with AMG steering wheel buttons.
Variable all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC+
Standard all-wheel drive provides optimum grip. Standard all-wheel drive provides optimum grip, ensuring great stability and driving safety on dry, wet and snowy roads. An electromechanically controlled clutch distributes drive power variably between the front and rear axles depending on the driving programme. This guarantees maximum traction, driving dynamics and safety at all times and in all driving conditions.
AMG has developed and tuned the AMG RIDE CONTROL steel spring suspension with adaptive adjustable damping specifically for the requirements of the E 53 HYBRID 4MATIC+ with new hardware and software. It offers a balanced combination of acoustic insulation for purely electric driving combined with a very sporty character typical of AMG.
In running order, the steel suspension with a sporty spring-shock configuration and adaptive damping with two adjustable dampers combines high driving dynamics with excellent ride comfort. The damping of each wheel adapts to the driving situation and road conditions. This happens quickly and precisely by means of separate valves for the tension and compression directions in the shock absorbers. The damper characteristic curve can be preselected in three levels: Comfort, Sport and Sport+, allowing a clearly perceptible differentiation between high comfort on long journeys and sporty driving dynamics, but always guaranteeing maximum safety.
The AMG high-performance sports brake system comprises internally ventilated 370×36 millimetre brake discs on the front axle and four-piston fixed callipers. On the rear axle they are 360×26 millimetres with single-piston floating calipers.
Another high-tech asset developed is the electromechanical brake servo. Ensures that the braking system effectively combines electric recuperation with hydraulic braking. Depending on the driving situation and braking requirements, the independent system automatically controls the flexible switching between hydraulic braking and electric recuperation.
Versatility in the AMG driving programs
From efficient to dynamic: the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs are precisely matched to the drive technology of the plug-in hybrid. They adjust important parameters such as engine and transmission response, steering characteristics, damping or sound. In addition to the familiar Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Smoothness and Individual drive programs, the new Mercedes-AMG E 53 HYBRID 4MATIC+ features two hybrid-specific drive programs: Electric and Battery Hold.
By default, the electrified Model 53 starts quietly in the “Electric” driving program when the electric motor is switched on. The Ready icon on the instrument panel indicates that the vehicle is ready to drive. In Electric, driving is purely electric via the 120 kW (163 hp) electric motor with a range of over 100 kilometres. If the battery charge level is too low or the driver requests more power and exceeds the pressure point of the haptic accelerator pedal, the intelligent operating strategy changes automatically: the combustion engine starts up and takes over propulsion as required.
The new Mercedes-AMG E 53 HYBRID 4MATIC+ is an experience in itself, a constant source of many rewarding sensations, a safe and dynamic tool for travelling and a concept designed to be enjoyed safely.
