2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (5th Generation)

Mercedes-Benz E53 AMG Hybrid Estate

With the new Mercedes-AMG E53 HYBRID 4MATIC+ as a saloon and estate, the performance and sports car brand from Affalterbach is presenting two further plug-in hybrid models. They combine outstanding performance and driving dynamics with a long electric range.

"The E-Class has been one of our most popular models for decades and we want to build on this with the new E53 HYBRID. The vehicle offers typical AMG driving pleasure with excellent responsiveness, great driving dynamics and a sporty design. As a plug-in hybrid, the E53 HYBRID combines mighty performance with efficiency. Thanks to the high electric range, many everyday journeys can be completed purely electrically. At the same time, the vehicle comes with extensive standard equipment, including fully variable all-wheel drive and active rear-axle steering. In this way, we offer our customers a vehicle that is perfect for their high demands." Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH and Head of Business Units Mercedes-Benz G-Class & Mercedes-Maybach

The combination of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine and the permanently excited E-synchronous machine generates a maximum system output of 430 kW (585 HP) [at RACE START: 450 kW/612 HP] and a maximum system torque of 750 Nm. The performance is correspondingly dynamic: acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes place in 3.8 seconds (saloon with RACE START, part of the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package). The top speed is electronically limited to 280 km/h (saloon with optional AMG Driver's Package). Up to 140 km/h are possible purely electrically.


Mercedes-Benz E53 AMG Hybrid

 
The new Mercedes-AMG E53 hybrid is here with 576bhp

You also get a ‘Race Start’ function to (momentarily) give it the same amount of power as the current E63

Mercedes-AMG has released its new hybrid E53 saloon and estate duo, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six and 120kW electric motor combination. The resulting 576bhp is 14 more than the outgoing model, and just 27 shy of the current range-topping E63. This means 0-60 is dispatched within four seconds en route to a top speed of 173mph.

You also get 553lb ft of torque, channelled through Merc’s now seemingly standard 9G automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system. They’ll work alongside the adaptive dampers to switch between firm, comfortable and ‘don’t you dare fall asleep at the wheel’.

The battery is a 28.6kWh unit that contributes to an all-electric range of around 62 miles, which can be regained in a 20-minute stop if you choose the optional 60kW charger. Otherwise, you get an 11kW cable as standard.

Let’s talk exterior design, and since the E53 is the penultimate model in the range, you still get a stealthy radiator grille, wide wheel arches and properly defined air inlets. Take a step back, and you start to notice the added presence of the wide front track. The AMG cues continue along the flanks via the side skirts and down to the super aggressive, million-spoke 19/20in alloys. Good luck trying to clean those.

 
New Mercedes-AMG E53 revealed as six-cylinder hybrid with up to 450kW

Sticking to its six-cylinder guns but embracing hybrid tech, the new Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic is as powerful as the outgoing E63 S model, under launch control at least.

Revealed on Monday, the new ‘deputy’ performance model pairs an upgraded 3.0-litre straight six turbopetrol engine with an electric motor for system outputs of 430kW and 750Nm.

But if you order the AMG Dynamic Plus Package, there’s a Race Start mode that briefly liberates 450kW on pull-off.

0-100km/h comes up in just 3.8 seconds, most impressive considering that the yet-to-be-revealed E63 will surely be even more potent.

 
2025 Mercedes-AMG E53 Packs 430 kW

The new-gen 2025 Mercedes-AMG E53 gets the plug-in hybrid treatment and a thundering turbocharged inline-six petrol engine.

The first performance version of the new-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been unveiled. You can spot the 2025 Mercedes-AMG E53 with its AMG grille which is illuminated, larger intakes, wider stance, quad exhausts and badging. Of course, you can add some carbon fibre packages to give you an even more menacing look. The car rides on 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, but customers have the option of 20-inch and 21-inch forged units.

 
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2024) Price & Specs

The new-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class is on its way to South Africa. Here’s how much you will pay for the luxury sedan when it arrives in May 2024.

The 6th-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class will be launching locally in May 2024 and we’ve uncovered pricing for the newcomer. Positioned as an alternative to the BMW 5 Series, the new-gen E-Class features a length extension of 22 mm to further increase cabin space, with the Stuttgart-based brand claiming legroom, kneeroom and elbowroom have grown.

How much does the new-gen Mercedes-Benz E-Class cost in South Africa?

The new E-Class is sold with a 5-year/100 000 km service and maintenance plan.

E-Class 200 R1 334 750
E-Class 220d R1 430 550

 
WATCH: The all-new Mercedes E-Class set for SA launch in May

Hot on the heels of the all-new BMW 5 Series that touched down in February, Mercedes-Benz SA is preparing to unleash its new-generation E-Class sedan.

Ahead of its local release, Willem van de Putte got up close and personal with the new executive sedan in an exclusive preview event held in Sandton.

The E-Class will initially be available in two flavours, with the E200 turbopetrol model priced from R1,356,167 and the E220d turbodiesel stickered from R1,436,259. The engines boast 48V mild hybrid technology.

 
REVIEW: New Mercedes E-Class blends traditional elegance and tech savvy

Our test car was powered by Merc’s latest 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine, which feels as clatter free, from the superbly insulated interior, as you could possibly expect at this level.

It produces 145kW at 3,600rpm, with a 17kW mild hybrid boost momentarily available when called upon, while 440Nm is available from 1,800 to 2,800rpm. A 150kW 2.0-litre petrol engine is also available in the new E-Class.

Mercedes claims a fuel consumption figure of 5.5 litres per 100km for the diesel, and a zero to 100km/h sprint should take around 7.6 seconds. It’s not what I’d call a fast car by any means, but if an economical cruiser with relatively effortless performance is what you’re after, you’ve come to the right place.

It’s a really comfortable driving experience all round, and it feels surprisingly agile, in spite of the vehicle’s generous dimensions, with a length of nearly five metres.

The new E-Class is an elegant and satisfying nod to its long line of predecessors, while also managing to dazzle onlookers with its modern and captivating technology. It’s just a pity that most of the cool new tech features cost over and above the list price of R1,436 million.

 
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