The German automaker's performance house, Mercedes-AMG has expanded its portfolio with the addition of three new mild-hybrid models that were unveiled at the ongoing Detroit Motor Show 2018. The new Mercedes-AMG hybrid line-up carry the 53-series badge and include the CLS53, E53 Coupe and E53 Cabriolet offerings. With the new AMG 53-series, Mercedes says that it is extending the AMG portfolio in what will be a hybridised future. The AMG 53 models carry more power, and visual upgrades over the standard version, while offering improved efficiency than what you would expect from a conventional AMG model.
Power on the Mercedes-AMG CLS53, E53 Coupe and E53 Cabriolet comes from the all-new 3.0-litre, straight-six engine that gets twin turbochargers and is coupled with an electric compressor and an exhaust gas turbocharger. The motor has been tuned to develop 429 bhp of maximum power at 6100 rpm and 519 Nm of peak torque available between 1800 and 5800 rpm.
(2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 Convertible)
The powertrain is paired to an 'EQ Boost' setup, which uses a small electric motor to provide additional thrust, and to run the car's 48-volt electrical system. The unit delivers 22 bhp of additional power and 250 Nm of torque for brief periods, while also charging the car's 48 volt electrical system.
In contrast, the 3.0-litre V6 engine powering the Mercedes-AMG E43 saloon churns out only 395 bhp and 519 Nm of torque. The increase in figures is also visible in performance with the E53 capable of hitting 0-100 kmph in 4.4 seconds, as opposed to 4.7 seconds on the E43.
(2019 Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe)
Similarly, the Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe and E53 Convertible, which are first-time AMG models, use the same setup and can do the nought to 100 kmph run in 5.3 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 kmph.
The three Mercedes-AMG 53 models are paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission, and gets the variable 4MATIC 4-Wheel Drive system as standard, but can be set to only rear wheel drive mode as well for higher efficiency.
(The 2019 Mercedes-AMG 53 Hybrid series will go on sale globally later this year)
Visually, the 2019 Mercedes-AMG CLS53, E53 Coupe and E53 Convertible continue to get the distinctive AMG elements including the carbon-fibre inserts, 5-spoke alloy wheels, twin-blade grille, sportier bumpers and wider sills. The signature AMG exhaust tips are also part of the package, while customers can opt for 19-inch alloys or the feisty 20-inch rims. Inside, the models get the AMG steering wheel, paddle shifters, sporty pedals and the works to complete the look.
Mercedes has stepped into an all-new territory with the new AMG 53 line-up. The company has no plans to expand the E-Class Coupe and Convertible models to full blown AMG 63 range. But as for the AMG 53 series, the new hybrid range is only expected to grow into other models as well. It needs to be seen if Mercedes-Benz India will bring its new AMG Hybrid line-up to the country. With the focus on EVs in the country, performance hybrids certainly sound hot.
