The Mercedes-AMG E43 has been replacing with the new E53 instead. Following its debut in the CLS and E-Class coupe and
convertible, the mild-hybrid performance powertrain now powers the sedan and
wagon as well. It’s a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six with a 48-volt EQ Boost
system.
The internal-combustion engine produces 435
hp and 520 Nm of torque. That’s more power (but a
touch less torque) than the existing E43, which offers 396 hp and 384 lb-ft.
But the EQ Boost kicks in an extra 22 hp and 250 Nm to
bring the combined total output up to 457 hp and 769 Nm.
That’s still less than the 563 hp offered
by the E63 with its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 – but the torque figure is actually
a bit higher in the E53. The E63 S still trumps it on both counts, though, with
604 hp and 850 Nm.
Channeled to all four wheels through a nine-speed
automatic transmission and AMG-tuned 4Matic+ system, the E53 (in either sedan
or wagon form) will rocket to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. That’s one tick
better than the E43, but still a full second off the E63’s figure. With all
that torque, though, and less weight, we can’t help but wonder if Mercedes
isn’t being coy with the performance figures.
Along with the arrival of the E53, Mercedes has also
rolled out new E200d, E220d, E300d, and E400d diesel models (with 150 hp, 194 hp, 245 hp, and 340 hp, respectively). There are
new driver assistance systems, steering wheels, telematics, and other trim
upgrades, as well as a new SportStyle package (pictured below in white).
In Germany, the Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic+ sedan will retail for 79,248.05
euros, and the wagon for 82,038.60. Those prices include 19-percent VAT.
