2025 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid is a Strong Plug-in Performer
Completely redesigned and improved for 2024, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class lineup offers a pair of mild-hybrid models. Today, we’ve learned that a performance-focused plug-in hybrid will join them by the end of this year as a 2025 model.
Under the hood of the new Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid is a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine mated to a permanently excited, synchronous electric motor. Total system output is 577 horsepower (or 604 horsepower with RACE START activated) along with 553 lb-ft of torque. It’s all controlled by a nine-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT dual-clutch transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system, resulting in 0-100 km/h sprints in as little as 3.8 seconds.
- Also: 2024 Mercedes-Benz E 450 4MATIC: The Silver Star Keeps Shining
- Also: 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Begins New Chapter, Misses a Few Characters
A 28.6kWh battery is positioned at the rear of the vehicle, below the trunk floor. The automaker says that 21.2 kWh is available for everyday driving, while the remaining energy is reserved for electric boost during high-performance driving. Pure electric driving is possible up to 140 km/h. The official range estimate has yet to be posted, but we expect it to be extremely competitive.
The E 53 Hybrid is equipped with an 11kW onboard AC charger as well as a 60kW DC fast charger, the latter enabling external charging of the battery from 10-80 percent in approximately 20 minutes. On the road, recuperation up to 120 kW is possible. In DAuto mode, the system automatically selects the level of recuperation power depending on the traffic situation. Otherwise, the driver can choose from three levels of recuperation. In D-, strong regenerative braking allows for one-pedal driving similar to an EV.
When it comes to the chassis, Mercedes-Benz has increased torsional stiffness with a strut brace between the front suspension strut mounts, as well as additional struts from the side members to the rear. Furthermore, the company designed and tuned the AMG RIDE CONTROL steel spring suspension with adaptive damping specifically for the requirements of the E 53 Hybrid. Meanwhile, active rear-axle steering allows the rear wheels to steer either in the opposite direction of the front wheels at a maximum of 2.5 degrees for better handling at low speeds or in the same direction at a maximum of 0.7 degrees for increased stability at high speeds (over 100 km/h).
Physically, the new plug-in hybrid model stands out with wider front fenders (1.1 cm on each side compared to a standard E-Class) designed to accommodate the wider track. They sport “Turbo Hybrid” badges that leave no doubt about the type of powertrain under the body. The front grille treatment is specific to AMG, of course, and even illuminated as standard.
On the sides, AMG-specific skirt panels visually connect the front and rear wheel arches, which can house either 20- or 21-inch alloy wheels. The final touch is the AMG spoiler lip on the trunk lid and AMG rear fascia with diffuser and twin round double tailpipes.
Before we wrap this up, a word about the interior. Look for AMG sport seats up front, an AMG performance steering finished in Nappa leather, plus new illuminated trim in grey open-pore ash wood with an AMG logo. The AMG-tailored MBUX infotainment system features hybrid-specific displays and functions. This includes the charging menu and displays in the driver and central multimedia screens, which provide information about charge status, temperature of the high-voltage battery, electric range and more. Optionally, the stunning MBUX Superscreen adds a 12.3-inch display on the passenger’s side.
As we mentioned at the top, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid will go on sale in Canada by the end of this year, with pricing to be announced closer to launch.
