Used 2019 Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-AMG E-Class

The 2019 Mercedes-AMG E-Class line expands this year to cover the full E-class quartet, meaning there is now a performance-oriented AMG version for the sedan, coupe, convertible and wagon. That’s good news all around, and although the insanely powerful E63 S trim is only offered on the sedan and wagon, the new E53 version now covers the sedan, coupe and cabriolet ensuring everyone is in for a good time.

The E63 S uses a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that can catapult it to 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds. The E53 employs a turbocharged inline-6 that gets an additional boost from an electric starter-alternator and supercharger that can increase horsepower and torque in short bursts. Watch your back, Audi and BMW.

When AMG gets hold of a standard Mercedes-Benz luxury car or SUV, the results are nothing short of game-changing. So it is with the new Mercedes-AMG E53, a family of E-Class sedans, coupes and cabriolets that go from soft, quiet luxury transports to asphalt-melting hellions.

While still maintaining all the luxury, technology and safety of their less raucous counterparts, the AMG models are denoted by their beefed-up suspensions, sinister exterior styling, standard 4Matic+ all-wheel drive (AWD) and horsepower-heavy turbocharged engines. In flat-out sprints, the E53 sedan can be expected to return a 0-60-mph run in just 4.3 seconds, while the 603-horsepower E63 S knocks that time down to 3.4 seconds. Of course, you’ll pay a hefty price for the E63 S, but you’ll also get bragging rights to a hand-built German twin-turbocharged V8 that can easily scare the pants off any rival.

Regardless of which engine you choose, it will be mated to a smooth 9-speed automatic that makes quick work of gear changes. There’s even a “drift mode” for those so inclined to take their AMG investment to the extreme edge of performance driving.

It shouldn’t be a surprise that the 4- and 5-passenger interiors of the AMG E-Class variants closely match those of the standard models. Still, AMG-specific details help these Mercedes performance models stand out even on the inside. Red trim throughout the cabin, for instance, more than hints at the flashes of anger under the hood. Being higher-priced models, these AMG-specific E-Class variants are also filled with more creature comforts. You’ll still have to pay for real leather in E53 models, however.

The 2019 E63 Wagon offers SUV-like cargo capacity that maxes out at 64 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Unlike the standard E-Class wagon, there is no rear-facing 3rd-row seat. With its ability to go 180 mph, that’s probably a good thing for the carsick-prone among us.

The 2019 Mercedes-AMG E-Class sedan, coupe, cabriolet and wagon retain the same crisp lines as the standard models, but are emboldened with aggressive cues. The AMG sedans sit slightly lower, and all models have AMG body styling with unique fascias. One of the beautiful things about these high-powered AMG models is their ability to blend in with their counterparts, until they leave them in the dust. From that vantage point, look for the telltale quad-tailpipe exhaust outlets.

DRIFT MODE
Why should kids in old Nissans have all the fun? Now, mom and dad can drift their $100,000 Mercedes-AMG sedan or wagon and show the youngsters how it’s done. Offered only on the E63 S models, the drift mode switches off the AWD, sending full power to the rear wheels.

TONS OF TECH
The AMG models are not solely about power and performance, they’re also tech-heavy Titans. From the ample driver-assist systems, safety measures and communications interfaces, to the future-ready Car-to-X communications interface, the 2019 Mercedes-AMG E-Class wants for nothing.

Starting with the least expensive 2019 AMG E-Class model, the E53 sedan, you can expect a strong roster of standard features. In addition to its powertrain enhancements, you’ll get power-operated and heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a foot-activated hands-free trunk, a sunroof, LED headlights and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The standard infotainment system bundles the twin 12.3-inch instrument cluster and center display, navigation, wireless phone charging and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, parallel/perpendicular parking assist, and crosswind assist to stabilize the car in high winds.

In addition to the even higher-powered engines, the E63 S models include Race and Drift modes, a leather interior, front seats with heat and ventilation, a Burmester premium audio system, and a power rear-window sunshade (sedan only). As with the standard E-Class, myriad options can add to the car’s essence and capability. Among them are the best massaging front seats to be found in an automobile and a roster of active driving features such as active blind-spot monitoring that can guide you away from a crash, evasive steering assist to prevent hitting a pedestrian and active lane-keeping assist. On the deceleration front, the E63 S can be had with carbon-ceramic brakes that will set you back nearly $9,000.

For 2019, the new E53 models are powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-6-cylinder engine with an electrified supercharger. A mild-hybrid starter generator is fitted between the gas engine and 9-speed transmission to assist the supercharger as well as feed the 48V-onboard electrical system. Together, this setup can momentarily provide an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

In the E63 S sedan and wagon, a hand-built, twin-turbocharged V8 makes over 600 horsepower. Both engines are paired with an AMG Speedshift TCT 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic+ all-wheel drive. A fuel-saving automatic start/stop system idles the engine whenever the vehicle comes to a stop, but the driver can override the system should it prove annoying or inconvenient.

3.0-liter turbocharged, supercharged and hybrid inline-6 (E53)
429 horsepower @ 6,100 rpm
384 lb-ft of torque @ 1,800-5,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/28 mpg (sedan and coupe), 20/26 mpg (convertible)

4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 (E63 S)
603 horsepower @ 5,750-6,500 rpm
627 lb-ft of torque @ 2,500-4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/23 mpg (sedan), 16/23 mpg (wagon)