2025 Meredes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Review

The AMG E 53 is another of the brand’s performance hybrids. Its top-line figures are 430kW, 0-100 in 3.8sec with fuel use of 1.9L/100km. A 3.0-litre inline six is responsible for most of that mumbo. With a big turbo pumping up to 1.5 bar, it makes 330kW with 560Nm. But there’s also a 120kW/480Nm motor within the nine-gear auto, the combined system output rated at 430kW and 750Nm. While it’s a typical AMG powerhouse, the E 53 is also said to prioritise efficiency and comfort. Is it a case of being a jack of all trades but a master of none?

The efficiency comes from the 28.6kWh battery out back, of which 21kWh is available for engine-off roaming, AMG reckoning on a range of 100km. The rest they reserve for engine boosting so you always have the full output at your call. A full battery showed 85km of range, but that disappeared within 70km of cross town roaming. There’s enough squirt in EV mode that you’re unlikely to trigger the engine into action, accelerating briskly onto the motorway, and mooching about smoothly in traffic. The gearshifts are virtually undetectable. But it’s not nearly as punchy and instant as the EQE 53. 

The regen is variable, which is handy, as the brake pedal action can be inconsistent, particularly in the hybrid mode. This sees the E 53 constantly switching the engine on and off, the two sources blending smoothly when the six fires. But it just doesn’t feel like an AMG should. Consumption was sitting around the 11L/100km mark in round-town hybrid running. Selecting Sport mode switches the engine on permanently, and then it feels more like something with an E 53 badge attached. But then fuel use rises yet further. 

The ride is pleasant enough in Comfort. This has AMG Ride Control with steel springs and adaptive, twin-valve dampers. AMG-specific bushings and geometry also feature. So there’s a bit more road noise and the tyres chatter on full-lock turn-arounds with the E 53’s more aggressive suspension set-up. Despite rear-wheel steer, the turning circle is still large (12.5m) but the steering is quick and light.

The 53 looks more energised than your average E 300. It has the usual AMG attitude with its slatted grille, additional air holes and wider guards to accommodate the increased front track. The side skirts extend out, making it that bit harder to get in and out of, while its business out back with its spoiler lip and big tailpipes. 

The flush door handles look good too but they don’t always pop out when you require them to. Once in, the AMG sports seats can squeeze you in place with adjustable side bolstering but the massage function is more appreciated. Not sure about those white inserts though. There is plenty happening at the wheel, those haptic controls requiring a deft touch (or two) on the go. 

The MBUX Superscreen is standard (unfortunately) with a 14.4-inch central display and a 12.3-inch passenger display. The kids loved it but it means yet more finger smears all over the dash. Big screens also make it harder on the eyes during open road night driving; so much glare. And so along with the dazzling ambient lights, they all need to be switched off. This is something the voice assistance system can help with. Though this helper was having a bad week; she kept chiming in uninvited and had a hard time understanding us. It was almost as annoying as the digital air vents, which look pretty but are too noisy in operation. 

Rear seat space is adequate, though not commodious for what is a big car, while the boot is tight. Battery packaging sees the boot floor set higher, and so there’s just 370L on offer.

When it’s time for some fun, best fiddle with the Individual mode. You’ll want the driveline in Dynamic to get the best response, and a better engine tone. It’s hard to hear over the road roar (and those noisy air vents), and it still doesn’t sound as good as the old 43 model. The six revs nicely, with a big bottom-end shove matched with serious power up top. Traction is not an issue, even with such torque flowing forth. The variable AWD divvies it up between the axles while an electronic rear diff lock helps too. It hangs on well at both ends and the steering is sound, turning aided by the rear wheels steering. The brakes aren’t amazing; strong yes but the pedal feel and consistency could be better.

The ride and handling mix is better in Sport, the bumps tolerable while the mass is kept in check. But the E 53 never hides that weight, all 2390kg of it. It’s quick enough, but it would be more engaging if it wasn’t hauling around all that battery weight. Blame European emission laws, CO2 taxation and congestion charges as this plug-in hybrid set-up is chiefly for the benefit of European customers, who have to deal with all the above.

So who will it suit here? Guess someone with $200k wanting something that is blisteringly quick and yet easy going, suitably luxurious with the ability to pootle about town in emissions-free comfort while also having long range touring credentials.  

Mercedes-AMG E 53 4matic+
$199,899  /  1.9L/100km  /  40g/km
0-100 km/h 3.8s
Engine  2999cc / IL6 DI / T, 330kW / 560Nm
Motor  120Kw / 480Nm
Total output  430kW / 750Nm
Transmission  9-speed auto, AWD
Weight (claimed)  2390kg