Test Driving Mercedes-AMG’s All-New 53-Series Models in Napa Valley

Mercedes-Benz

“Powerful performance, sporty style and high efficiency” are the hallmarks of Mercedes-AMG’s all new 53-series models which we test drove recently in the picturesque landscape of California’s Napa Valley. The new model designation for the iconic German manufacturer made its debut with four covetable new models for 2019: the Mercedes-AMG E 53 Sedan, Mercedes-AMG E 53 Coupe, Mercedes-AMG E 53 Cabriolet and Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 Coupe. One certainly can’t accuse Mercedes of doing things by half measures. 

Nor are the new cars mere exercises in styling; the quartet runs on a new, electrified 3.0-liter, 6-cylinder engine featuring an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor that’s a marvel of engineering. It generates an impressive 429 hp along with 384 lb-ft. of torque, while its EQ Boost starter-alternator momentarily provides an additional 21 hp of output plus 184 lb-ft of torque while feeding the 48 V on-board electrical system. Mated to a new paddle-controlled AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission it’s formidable indeed.

Which is not to say styling isn’t part of the package. Mercedes has the best designers in the luxury segment headed up by the incomparable Gorden Wagener,…