The Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic+has arrived in South Africa and is now offered in both coupe and cabrioletguises. See specification and pricing below…

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class range has been expanded to include a new performance model which effectively replaces the E43 and slots in below the fiery E63 S. It's called the E53 and it boasts an advanced and electrically-assisted bi-turbo straight-6engine.

High-tech engine

A powerful, electrically-assisted 3.0-litre 6-cylinderdoes service in the E53 with 320kW and 520 Nm of torque.

The 53 is powered by a turbocharged3.0-litre engine of extraordinary complexity. Deep breath.It’s an in-line 6-cylinder turbopetrol, mounted longitudinally, theexhaust outlets pass through a single, large, twin-scroll turbocharger. To cover the inevitable turbo lag from this, there is also an electrically powered compressor, located on the other side of the block, just before an intercooler right next to the inlet ports, which can help suck air through the induction tract while the turbocharger builds up enough boost.

It makes 320 kW and 520 Nm, which is a lot in itself.But in addition to both of these forced inductors, mounted between the engine and the 9-speed automatic gearbox sits an integrated starter/generator (ISG), an alternator/starter motor and flywheel combo, which can contribute 16 kW and no less than 250 Nm to the engine’s already imposing output.

All of this power goes to the E53's rear wheels most of the time, with a standard all-wheel-drive system on all models diverting it to four wheels when the rears threaten to slip. Performance is impressive for a big luxury barge. Expect zero to 100 kph to come up in a claimed4.4 seconds and it'll run onto a top speed of 250 kph while the Cabriolet is only 1 second slower.Fit the optional AMG Drivers Package and it'll go to 270 kph. The new Mercedes-AMG E53 features a 9-speed automatic gearbox. In terms of fuel consumption, Mercedes-AMG claims a combined figure of 8.7 L/100 km for the E53 Coupe while the E53 Cabriolet claims a figure of 8.8 L/100km.

As for the interior, an optional Widescreen Cockpit is offered which adds luxury and visual appeal to the interior with the digital instrument dials and a large centralinfotainment display creating an impressive user interface. Buyers can choose from a variety of trims and finishes to suit your taste, see pricing below.

Look out for our launch review of the Mercedes-AMG E53 4Matic+ coming your way this week!

The E53 cabin is spacious, sporty and luxurious.

Mercedes-AMG E53 Price in South Africa

E534Matic+: R 1 305620

E53 Coupe 4Matic+: R1 322 200

E53 Cabriolet 4MAtic+: R1 442 226

Further Reading

Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4Matic+ (2019) Specs & Price

New Mercedes-Benz CLA Revealed

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2016) First Drive

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2019) International Launch Review

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG S (2014) Review