Surprise! While we await news on the new-generation E63 and its long-running wagon variant, AMG drops an E53 wagon on us.
When it comes to luxury European vehicles, station wagons derived from renowned saloon models are experiencing somewhat of a resurgence. We see this with Audi’s RS6 Avant reaching the U.S. market, along with BMW offering the M5 Touring. The thing is, it isn’t as though there has been an abrupt change; It's Mercedes-Benz’s turn to hit the road for some touring. —because Benz hasn’t truly vacated this segment for many years now. They have consistently provided the extended E-Class wagons over time, although recently these models took on more of an all-terrain appearance reminiscent of a Subaru, particularly the standard E450 variant. However, AMG has ensured that the high-performance station wagon tradition continued with the E63 wagon. This latest news came as a shock to us, considering we were anticipating the next generation of the E-Class. Our 2025 Vehicle of the Year , to develop a V-8-driven E63 S Performance station wagon, but instead, we have a new E53 Hybrid station wagon. The E53 is joining The E53 Hybrid sedan is already available for purchase. and signifies a fresh touchdown point between the E450 All Terrain And the E63 replacement that we're still anticipating in Mercedes' station wagon series.
For those unfamiliar with Mercedes' nomenclature, the E450 is equipped with a turbocharged inline-six paired with mild-hybrid technology, which applies to both the E450 sedan and the E450 All-Terrain wagon. There’s also an E350 variant featuring a four-cylinder engine, though it's exclusively available here as a sedan—the E450 represents the entry point for wagons. Moving up to the E53 takes this configuration further by retaining the six-cylinder setup but enhancing the electric assistance for greater power and performance. In fact, these improvements bring it nearly level with the previous generation of the V-8-driven E63 S Performance wagon in terms of capabilities.
The 2026 E53 Hybrid is indeed a plug-in hybrid, also known as a PHEV. It features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine delivering 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque—significant improvements over the E450’s output of 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The AMG variant adds an integrated electric motor capable of producing 161 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. ninth-generation Speedshift TCT 9G automated transmission With a 400-volt battery pack containing 21.2 kWh of usable energy, the standard combined output for the E53 stands at 577 horsepower, reaching up to 155 miles per hour. However, enabling the Race Start feature within the optional AMG Dynamic Plus package adds another 27 horsepower, bringing the total output to 604 horsepower—just above the previous E63’s peak—and boosting the top speed to 174 miles per hour. Additionally, this enhancement reduces the claimed acceleration time from standstill to 60 mph from 4.0 seconds in normal operation down to 3.8 seconds due to the increased power.
Vehicle handling is improved through the inclusion of the standard active rear-axle steering and AMG Ride Control setup featuring both adjustable and adaptive dampers. Additionally, the Dynamic Plus package introduces active engine mounts along with an electronically managed limited-slip differential customized for AMG specifications, aimed at maximizing performance from this plug-in hybrid estate car.
You'll receive a set of AMG High Performance Composite Brakes featuring red AMG calipers along with enormous 15.4-inch front brake discs as well. The AMG E53 is also a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The AMG-tuned station wagon can reach speeds of up to 87 mph using only electric power. However, Mercedes has not disclosed how long you can maintain this speed purely on electricity; more details might come in an upcoming update prior to the E53’s arrival in the US market towards the end of 2025. Although DC fast-charging capability tops out at 60 kW, this should still provide rapid recharging when needed during travel, depending on the capacity of the vehicle’s battery.
Inside, you’ll find that typical mix of race inspired luxury you’ve come to expect from Mercedes-AMG in the E53 Wagon. AMG MB-Tex with Microfiber with AMG Nappa leather upholstery This feature is included as part of the additional AMG Performance Seat Package. You have various options for the AMG Performance steering wheel finish unless you opt for the Dynamic Plus package, which comes standard with a combination of Nappa leather and microfiber wrap. This addition enhances both the luxurious and performance-oriented atmosphere inside the vehicle. Enjoy audio bliss through a powerful 750-watt Burmester surround sound system featuring 17 speakers throughout the cabin. Additionally, choosing the optional MBUX Superscreen package grants access to a 12.3-inch screen specifically designed for your front seat passenger to manage all media and entertainment functions effortlessly.
The exterior of the 2026 AMG E53 Wagon offers 12 color options, with four exclusive shades available through Manufaktur. These hues can be selected as part of additional styling packs such as the AMG Night Package and AMG Night Package Plus, along with an AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber option for a customized factory finish. Standard features include 20-inch AMG twin-five spoke wheels; however, customers have the choice between optional AMG ten-spoke designs or larger 21-inch AMG forged cross-spoke wheels.
If you're set on getting a highly restricted variant of the 2026 AMG E53 Hybrid Wagon, your best bet is to place an early order for the special Edition 1 model. This limited release will arrive in Manufaktur Alpine Gray with distinctive AMG graphics, accent details, and comes equipped as standard with the 21-inch AMG Forged Cross-Spoke wheels. Inside, expect bespoke design touches along with a comprehensive array of standard features; however, specific items were not disclosed by Mercedes.
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 Hybrid Wagon is set to hit our markets before the end of this year. While official prices have not been released yet, anticipate them starting around seven figures and climbing higher. In the meantime, let’s rejoice over the arrival of another high-performance station wagon, and look forward with great anticipation to updates about the more powerful E63 version—especially considering how it has a niche but devoted following here, many of whom can afford such luxury without breaking a sweat.
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