Launched in 2016, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class introduced an impressive amount of new technology for the brand, including a semi-autonomous feature and a steering wheel that can detect swipes like a smartphone. The nameplate expanded rapidly to include efficient four-cylinder models, a hybrid, diesels, and powerful AMG variants. Come 2018, and the sedan gains a mild hybrid AMG version under the "E53" badge. Set to replace the AMG E43 for the 2019 model years, it slots between the E400 4Matic and the full-blown AMG E63.

The sedan is the third E-Class model to make the switch to EQ hybrid technology. Mercedes-Benz began the overhaul with the coupe and cabriolet versions, which were unveiled at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show in January. The technology first debuted on the CLS in 2017, but the four-door version is not as powerful. A similar setup can be found in the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, which also offers a 53-badged variant. So what sets the AMG E53 Sedan apart from the standard E-Class and the hardcore AMG E63? Let's find out in the review below.

Continue reading to learn more about the Mercedes-AMG E53 Sedan.

2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 Sedan

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 Sedan
  • Engine/Motor: inline-6
  • Horsepower: 435
  • Torque: 384
  • Transmission: Nine-Speed AMG
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

- Diamond radiator grille - Revised front bumper - New wheels - Chrome trim - Carbon-fiber spoiler - "AMG E53" badges - Not as aggressive as the AMG E63

The E53 badge not only bridges the gap between the most powerful non-AMG model and the E63 output-wise but it also slots between the two in terms of design. While not as aggressive as the E63, the E53 is not as mundane as the non-AMG models either. But surprisingly enough, the sedan version isn't identical to the coupe up front. While the two-door model has a grille with a black lattice pattern and horizontal blades with black inserts, the sedan sports the more familiar diamond grille with thinner chrome blades. This design element is usually offered on V-8 cars, so it's a bit surprising to see it on a six-cylinder model.

The bumper was also revised into a sportier design with a splitter in silver chrome. The side intakes also have two horizontal fins in silver chrome, a feature that's also present on the coupe and convertible models. The engine hood has a unique design with two power domes. Onto the sides, we can see revised side skirts have a slightly sportier design, front fender badges with the "E53" designation, and new wheels. Mercedes also offers optional 20-inch AMG rims in a five-spoke design. Around back, the E53 boasts a slightly sportier diffuser and a twin tailpipe layout with high-gloss chrome trip (or black chrome with the Night Package). A body-colored spoiler rounds off the rear end. The aerodynamic element can also be ordered in carbon-fiber.

Interior

- 12.3-inch Displays - AMG Steering Wheel - Carbon-Fiber Trim - Sports Seats - Nappa Leather Upholstery - New Color Options

The E53 might not have as many extra features as the E63 version, but it gets enough extra standard equipment to stand out compared to the non-AMG E-Class.

For starters, it comes with the big 12.3-inch displays for the infotainment and instrument cluster as standard. The two displays share the same glass cover, making it look like a really wide screen that stretches from behind the steering wheel toward the passenger side of the dashboard.

The AMG badge also adds AMG Performance seats, specific upholstery, and an AMG Performance steering wheel wrapped in black Nappa leather and with a red 12 o'clock marking. Customers who want a classier look can opt for Black Piano Lacquer trim. The steering wheel also comes with touch-sensitive buttons that respond to swiping motions for easier communication with the infotainment system. Speaking of which, voice control has been extended to include vehicle functions such as air conditioning and seat heating and ventilation, interior lights, and more.

AMG-specific sporty elements also include red seat belts, and trim elements in either carbon-fiber, glass fiber, or matte silver. Much like in the coupe, the AMG package should also bring new upholstery options like black/saddle brown, black/white, black/classic red, Designo titian red/macchiato beige, and Designo titanium grey/black.

Drivetrain

- 3.0-Liter Inline-Six Engine - EQ Boost Hybrid System - 435 Horsepower - 384 Pound-Feet - EQ Boost Adds 22 Horses And 184 Pound-Feet - Nine-Speed AMG Transmission - 0 To 62 Mph In 4.4 Seconds - Top speed of only 130 mph

Just like the coupe and convertible models released earlier in 2018, the AMG E53 Sedan uses a version of the twin-turbo, 3.0-liter inline-six engine that was introduced with the Mercedes-Benz CLS. An EQ Boost starter-alternator that combines a starter motor and alternator in an electric unit is fitted between the engine and the transmission, which turns the E53 into a mild hybrid.

The electric auxiliary compressor builds up a high charge pressure without any delay, which provides a faster increase in torque for acceleration until the large exhaust gas turbocharger kicks in. As a result, the engine provides a more dynamic response and eliminates the lag usually associated with turbocharged engines. The hybrid system will also return better fuel economy compared to gasoline-only drivetrains.

The 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine generates 435 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, significantly more than the E400, which is rated at 329 horsepower. That's also an extra 39 horses over the AMG E43 model that this mild hybrid replaces. The EQ Boost provides an additional 22 horses and 184 pound-feet, taking total output to an impressive 457 horsepower and 568 pound-feet. Granted, the E53 is nowhere near as powerful as the V-8 E63 model, which delivers 603 horsepower, but it's powerful enough to cover the 0 to 60 sprint in 4.4 seconds, a half-second quicker than the E400 version.

A nine-speed AMG Speedshift transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive system route the power to the wheels, enabling the E53 Coupe to hit 62 mph from a standing start in 4.4 seconds, almost a full second quicker than the E400 4Matic. The top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph, surprisingly low for an AMG model, which usually come with 155-mph ratings. Other upgrades compared to the regular model include five Dynamic Select drive modes, independent AMG Ride Control+ suspension, AMG speed-sensitive steering, and a compound braking system.

Engine

AMG-enhanced 3.0L I6 Turbo Engine with EQ Boost

Displacement

2,999 cc

Power output hp

429 @ 6,100 rpm

Add. Output with EQ Boost

21 hp

Peak torque

384 lb-ft @ 1,800 – 5,800

Add. torque with EQ Boost

184 lb-ft

Drive system

AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G

Acceleration 0-60 mph

4.4 s (est)

Top Speed

130 mph


Prices

Pricing information for the AMG E53 is not yet available, but given that it will replace the AMG E43 for the 2019 model year, it should have a similar. Of course, the newer technology and the EQ system will drive the price up a bit, but it shouldn't cost more than $76,000 before options. For reference, the outgoing AMG E43 Sedan retails from $71,600.

Competition

BMW M550i xDrive

The AMG E53 is obviously not powerful enough for the full-blown BMW M5, but it's a good match for the M550i xDrive. Much like the E53, the M550i is not as menacing as the range-topping model, but it's equipped with plenty of M parts inside and out. Unlike the Merc, it comes with a big, 4.4-liter V-8 engine under the hood. It doesn't have too much in common with the mill in the M5, but the N63 engine cranks out a solid 456 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. That's just as much horsepower as the E53's hybrid drivetrain, but the AMG wins the torque battle thanks to an extra 88 pound-feet. But while it doesn't have as much torque, the M550 xDrive is actually quicker from 0 to 60 mph, needing only four seconds to complete the sprint. Its top speed is also superior at 155 mph. Pricing for the M550i xDrive starts from $73,900.

Read our full story on the 2018 BMW 5 Series.

Audi S6

Audi has yet to launch an S6 version of the new A6 sedan, but it should arrive just in time for the 2019 model year and the AMG E53. The new A6 features a sportier, more angular design on the outside and a completely revamped interior with a fresh, more premium look. Almost every surface is wrapped in leather, complemented by Alcantara inserts and aluminum trim. Carbon-fiber could be an option in this model too. The S6 could get its juice from a twin-turbo, 2.9-liter V-6, which already made its debut in the RS5. Output could sit at around 470 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, which would be enough to give the AMG E53 a run for its money. The outgoing model uses a V-8, but Audi will likely drop that unit for this model. Expect the new S6 to need around 4.2 seconds to hit 60 mph from a standing start, to go with a top speed of 155 mph. With the old model priced from $71,900, the redesigned sedan should start from around $73,000, if not a bit more.

Read our speculative review on the upcoming 2017 Audi S6.

Conclusion

The AMG E53 Sedan is part of Mercedes-Benz recent effort to replace the E43 lineup and to introduce electrification to the AMG family. The sedan is the third E-Class to benefit from the EQ upgrade and the four Merc alongside the CLS E53. The cool thing about the AMG E53 is that it almost looks like a full-fledged AMG. I also like the fact that it delivers significantly more torque than the competition while returning better fuel economy. On the other hand, the fact that it's almost a half-second slower than the BMW M550i xDrive and its top speed is limited to only 130 mph is a bit disappointing.

References

Read our full review on the 2018 Mercedes E-Class.

Read our full review on the 2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe.

Read our full review on the 2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet.

Read our full review on the 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43.

Read our full review on the 2017 Mercedes-AMG E63.