Mercedes debuts power-packed AMG E 53 with hefty price tag
It’s hard to imagine Mercedes-Benz needing another vehicle in its vast lineup. With AMG and Maybach included, the enduring German manufacturer offers about three dozen sedans, sport utility vehicles and trucks.
Still, the carmaker found another niche need — the 2025 AMG E 53.
The high-performance Mercedes-Benz is a nine-speed automatic plug-in hybrid touring sedan. It combines a turbocharged inline-six engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 577 horsepower. The option for economy is the 42-mile electric-only range.
With its AMG status, performance looks dominate: racing-style brakes, a sport-tuned adaptive suspension and rear-wheel steering improve the car’s cornering. Wider front fenders and a front fascia with larger air inlets are also in the mix.
A handsome appearance is backed up with driving and recharging prowess. Acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour is accomplished in 3.8 seconds. A 21.2-kWh battery pack provides the electrification: an 11-kW onboard AC charger handles Level 2 charging; the 60-kW DC fast-charger will replenish the battery from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 20 minutes, according to Mercedes. The EPA estimates the hybrid E53 will deliver a combined 59 MPGe.
Standard models include the AMG 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, an illuminated radiator grille, and the latest generation of the MBUX infotainment system with augmented reality navigation.
Performance aside, the high-end hybrid exudes luxury. The comfort begins with supremely comfortable, well-bolstered seating and both heated and cooled. An unusual coloring match also work — yellow console stitching and yellow seatbelts. Both complement the primary gray seating and panels. Further additions to the luxury: ambient lighting, a floating armrest and open-pore wood trim. Different shades of ambient lighting add a superfluous but fun luxury characteristic.
Front and back seat room is spacious, with the ride particularly smooth for rear seat occupants. Whether in city driving or at freeway speeds, the ride is confident with a caveat. The summer performance tires define a rough ride. Every divot, every road imperfection is felt.
The E53 offers hand Sport+, Sport, Electric, Hybrid, and Comfort drive modes, all adjusting the car’s performance. Comfort is comfort; Sport+ is the most aggressive, characteristics, from full-attack Sport+ to the more relaxed Comfort mode.
A 14.4-inch center multimedia display, surround-view camera, wireless smartphone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a panoramic sunroof are also standard.
One annoyance: The phone charger is tucked deep into the console, the charging icon is small and it’s difficult to determine if a device is charging.
Throughout its lineup, safety is a Mercedes-Benz strength. The AMG E 53 has seven airbags among a list of 15 safety items, from a tire pressure monitoring system to heated windshield wipers. There’s an antitheft alarm system and an electronic stability program.
As a long-standing manufacturer of luxury vehicles with stellar reputations, Mercedes-Benz, particularly with its AMG and Maybach relationships, doesn’t offer bargains.
Rather, it’s a carmaker that defines getting what’s paid for. As reviewed, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG costs $128,164. For brand loyalists, it’s money well spent, no questions asked.
The new vehicle combines a powerhouse, open-road luxury sedan with an electric sports car’s leanings. It’s a car for those who splurge because they can.
James Raia, a syndicated automotive columnist in Sacramento, also contributes business, lifestyle and sports content to several print and online publications. E-mail: james@jamesraia.com.