Mercedes AMG E53 coupe hits a six-pot
More and more manufacturers are looking at smaller and more efficient power units to navigate legislation and carbon taxes.
It is no wonder then that even the performance divisions of said manufacturers are also exploring this avenue. One of these examples is the Mercedes AMG E53 coupe and the Autodealer team took delivery of a test vehicle recently.
Pictures don’t always do the subject any justice and this is also the case with the big coupe. Upon first inspection, the width of the car is what you would expect from a model aimed towards the top echelons of society. It is, however, when you start moving around the vehicle when the length truly starts to amaze you. There is a more aggressive-looking front bumper with louvres and large vents on the flanks, 20-inch wheels also feature. The rear of the car is also quite eye-catching with the elongated taillights that feature a sort of crystal flake design element.
Moving to the interior you will find an uncluttered environment, a result of the twin 12.3-inch screens which offers some of the best graphics in the market. The menus can become quite tedious but quickly simplifies with the use of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto which reduces unnecessary user involvement. Couple the technology with a luxurious interior with ambient lighting and brushed aluminium finish as would find in the E53 coupe and it quickly becomes a highly desirable option.
The big question now is does it perform to the high standards set with previous generations? In short, yes. While models such as the C63s and the top of the range E63s still feature motors with eight pots, the 3.0-litre, straight-six, turbocharged petrol motor does not lack power or excitement. Instead, this motor which features mild-hybrid technology packs a punch delivering 336 kW and 520 N.m of torque with the electric boost engaged and will sprint to 100km/h in just 4.4 seconds. These figures are contrasted by the combined fuel consumption figure of around 8.8L/100km.
Verdict
Although my time in the E53 coupe was short-lived, it did leave a lasting impression. This vehicle is what I consider to be the perfect balance between, performance, comfort, efficiency and price and it is not often for manufacturers to achieve that. I will, however, admit that if it was my money, I would go for the four-door.
Warranty
The Mercedes AMG E53 coupe 4Matic+ comes standard with a two-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and a five-year/100 000km maintenance plan.
Price
Mercedes-AMG E53 coupe 4Matic+ – R 1 341 373
