Mercedes-AMG Reveals 603-hp E53 Hybrid 4Matic+

Mercedes-AMG reveals the second-generation E53 Hybrid 4Matic+ ahead of a planned U.S. market introduction for the all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid performance sedan during the second half of 2024.

The AMG model receives a powered-up version of the gasoline-electric drivetrain launched in the GLE53 4Matic+ in 2023. With 603 hp in combination with an optional AMG Dynamic Plus package, it develops a significant 163 hp more than the first-generation E53 4Matic launched in 2018. 

Mercedes-Benz’s performance-car division brings its own styling cues to the E53 Hybrid 4Matic+. Changes from the standard sixth-generation E-Class include a more heavily structured front bumper with larger air ducts (pictured, below), a new-look grille with illumination in markets where regulations permit, front wheel arches that are 0.4-in. (10 mm) wider on each side than other E-Class models, wider sill elements underneath the doors, a trunk-mounted spoiler and a new rear bumper with a prominent diffuser and oval-shaped tailpipes.

Inside, the ’25-model-year E53 4Matic+ receives AMG-specific instruments and MBUX infotainment functions, including the AMG Performance and optional AMG Track Pace systems already available in recent AMG models. There is also a model-specific wooden dashboard trim in open-pore ash gray with AMG patterning. 

Further upgrades over the standard E-Class include an AMG Performance steering wheel with unique controls, electrically adjustable sport seats at the front and AMG-specific synthetic leather upholstery. Interior options include AMG Performance seats and a 37.0-in. (94-cm) -wide MBUX Superscreen. 

Power comes from a more heavily tuned version of the gasoline-electric plug-in hybrid drivetrain first unveiled in the latest GLE53 4Matic+. It combines an AMG-engineered version of Mercedes-Benz's turbocharged 3.0L inline gasoline 6-cyl. developing 449 hp and 413 lb.-ft. (560 Nm) of torque together with a gearbox-mounted electric motor delivering 163 hp and 354 lb.-ft. (480 Nm).

The combined system output is put at a standard 585 hp, or up to 603 hp in combination with the optional AMG Dynamic Plus package. Torque peaks at 553 lb.-ft. (750 Nm) in both cases.

This is up to 67 hp more but is the same amount of torque as that of the GLE53 4Matic+. It is also 163 hp and 273 lb.-ft. (370 Nm) more than that delivered by the earlier incarnation of the turbocharged 3.0L gasoline 6-cyl. with mild-hybrid properties used in the first-generation E53 4Matic.

The combined reserves are sent through a 9-speed torque converter-equipped AMG Speedshift TCT automatic gearbox offering up to seven driving modes as well as an AMG Performance 4Matic+ fully variable all-wheel-drive system. 

Mercedes-AMG claims a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 4.0 seconds for the standard E53 4Matic+ sedan, and 3.8 seconds when it is running the optional AMG Dynamic Plus package with its integrated Race Start function and electronically controlled rear differential lock.

Top speed is nominally limited to 155 mph (250 km/h) but can be raised to 174 mph (280 km/h) for the sedan in combination with an AMG Driver’s package.

The electric motor draws its energy from a 21.2-kWh (usable) lithium-ion battery mounted in the floor of the trunk via a 400V electric architecture. It is claimed to provide the new performance sedan with an electric range of over 62 miles on the WLTP test cycle in the “Electric” driving mode, which limits the top speed to 87 mph (140 km/h).

Battery charging can be performed on either an AC system at up to 11 kW or a DC system at up to 60 kW – the latter claimed to provide a 10%-80% charge in “around 20 minutes.” 

A series of body stiffening measures have been brought to the standard E-Class. A new strut brace between the front suspension towers, a so-called thrust plate beneath the engine and additional bracing for the rear axle are included. With the AMG Dynamic Plus package, the engine also receives dynamic engine mounts to help reduce load change acting on the body structure.

The double-wishbone (front) and multi-link (rear) suspension receives unique tuning and twin-valve adaptive dampers with separate rates for rebound and compression. Mercedes-AMG also has added a wider front track and modified the rear subframe for what it describes as “a more direct connection of the suspension elements” to the body.

Additionally, the brakes have been upgraded with vented steel discs measuring 14.6 ins. and working with 4-piston calipers at the front and 14.2 ins. and operating with single-piston floating calipers at the rear. Buyers can specify 15.4-in. carbon-ceramic front discs and 6-piston calipers in combination with the AMG Dynamic Plus package.

The electro-hydraulic brake servo used in other recent plug-in hybrid and electric-powered AMG models has also found its way onto the E53 4Matic+. It is designed to keep the pedal action constant, both in travel and feel, while phasing from typical hydraulic braking to the point where the power electronics trigger energy recuperation and begin to store kinetic electricity in the battery. Mercedes-AMG claims its new sedan can recoup energy at up to 120 kW under heavy braking.