Mercedes-amg E 53

● Straight-six has EQ Boost ● Saloon and Estate options

Mega new exec saloon and estate unleashed

THIS is the new Mercedes-amg E 53 4MATIC+, which replaces the E 43 in the line-up as a rapid understudy to the full-blown E 63 and E 63 S models.

Available as a saloon and an Estate, the E 53 gets AMG’S take on Mercedes’ latest straight-six petrol engine. The 3.0-litre unit uses 48-volt tech to deliver what the firm calls EQ Boost, a starter-alternator that sits between the engine and the gearbox. The engine produces 429bhp and 520Nm, but the EQ Boost system adds a further 22bhp and up to 250Nm; the E 43’s powertrain (with noo electrical assistance) produced 396bhp.

Both E 53 versions have identical performance figures: 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds (a tenth of a second faster than the E 43) and a limited top speed of 155mph. The new model is available with the E 63’s 4MATIC+ four-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission only.

Mercedes has confirmed UK specs for the E 53 saloon and estate. Both will get 19-inch wheels as standard, plus an AMG performance exhaust and AMG Ride Control suspension. COMAND infotainment with a 12.3-inch display features, as does an additional 12.3inch digital instrument panel and black Nappa leather seats with red stitching.

Both E 53 versions are available to order now, with deliveries due in July. The saloon will cost from £61,835 (a rise of about £3,500 over the E 43) and the Estate will start from £63,835.

“The 48V EQ Boost system adds a further 22bhp and up to 250Nm”

POWERFUL New E 53 comes as saloon or Estate, and sits beneath E 63 in range. It’s offered with an automatic gearbox and 4WD only

COMAND infotainment and digital dials are standard, as are Nappa leather seats