THE YOUNG HOOLIGAN

The AMG E 53 4Matic+ was launched in India a few months back, and it is the ideal pick for someone looking for a step-down version to the E 63 S 4Matic+ or a performance iteration of the standard E-Class LWB

- HARSHIT SRINIVAS

EXPANDING THE AMG PORTFOLIO, Mercedes-Benz India introduced two new AMGs last year – the E 53 4Matic+ and E 63 S 4Matic+. We had our opinions about the E 63 S in the past, but the E 53 is the new one to consider. Not because it’s the latest addition to the AMG lineup but because it’s the second product in the AMG 53 Series and the first AMG with a saloon body style. Also, as mentioned it acts as an ideal option for those looking for a performance machine over the regular E-Class, and for those who do not want to shell out the added price of another new E-Class to buy the E 63 S 4Matic+. Yes, the E 53 4Matic+ comes at a sticker price of Rs 1.07 crore while the E 63 S 4Matic+ is for Rs 1.77 crore, whereas the standard E-Class LWB starts at Rs 67 lakh. And, with that, let us get behind the wheel for detailed first drive impressions.

DESIGN The E 53 4Matic+ as said is based on the outgoing E-Class. With cosmetic changes and AMG styling, the E 53 can be distinguished from an E-Class up front and from the back only, but from the sides, it is bang on identical to the regular ‘E’ and makes it difficult for you to recognise it from the side profile. And, speaking of looks, upfront, you have the sporty bumpers complemented with a Panamerican grille. On the bonnet, you have these huge power domes for an aggressive stance up front. While on the sides, you have the Turbo 4Matic+ lettering on the fenders and the newly designed 19inch rims distinguishing it from the regular E-Class. At the rear, things are different with a sporty bumper, quad-pipe exhausts and diffuser. Overall, the E 53 AMG has undergone some cosmetic treatment to make it distinct from the regular E-Class but definitely will take a beat for you to recognise it on the roads.