Imagine a car that has more power than your first computer and accelerates faster than your Netflix subscription. The Mercedes-AMG E53 is like the Frankenstein's monster of the modern automotive industry - made up of parts that you wouldn't expect to go together, but which work in incredible harmony. The six-cylinder, electrically boosted hybrid delivers 603 horses (for a short time, using launch control) and proves that in the world of cars, sometimes more really is more.
The old school says that bigger is always better, and the new AMG E53 takes that rule very seriously. Instead of going the downsizing route, Mercedes kept the beloved six-cylinder in this hybrid, but upgraded it to a good 443 horsepower. When you add the 161 hp electric motor, you get a total of 577 hp – and for that extra adrenaline when accelerating for a short time, even 603 hp.
Expect to be from 0 to 100 km/h (60 mph) landed in 3.8 seconds (sedan) or v 3.9 seconds (station wagon), which is fast enough to beat your morning alarm. The speed limit is otherwise set at 250km/h, which is probably more of an academic issue than anything else unless your daily commute involves the autobahn. But for those who want a little more, there is the additional AMG Driver's package, which raises the speed limit even higher.
As a true hybrid, the new E53 can also be driven on electric power alone, reaching speeds of up to 140 km/h. And don't fear, you won't run out of electric juice anytime soon, as there is a 21.22 kWh battery under the luggage compartment, which provides more than 100 km of electric range. Not bad for a hybrid.
AMG didn't forget the sporty accessories either: stiffer body structures, larger brakes and standard rear wheel steering, and adaptive suspension for those who like to feel the road. Not to mention the wider front axle and more aggressive design.
The E53 might not bring back the twin doors from the previous generation, but who needs them when you've got a hybrid this powerful and fast? Furthermore, with the arrival of the CLE53, Mercedes continues its electrified future with elegance and power.
As Jeremy Clarkson says, you could say it's "the best car in the world"… well, at least until the next one comes out. The Mercedes-AMG E53 is not just a car, it's a statement about how far we've come - and with a plug. Pricing is still unknown, but if the previous model is anything to go by, which started at a friendly €100,000, expect your wallet to need a bit of an electroshock to wake it up. Get ready for the arrival, because it will be in the salons later this year.
