Mercedes-AMG Has Just Announced a Challenge to BMW and Audi with a Wagon Priced at $30K Less | Carscoops

      While it may not be the quickest AMG, it could actually be the most logical choice financially. Strange, right?

      17 hours ago

      by Michael Gauthier

      The Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid Wagon has a starting price of $93,350, excluding destination fees.

      This price is significantly lower than high-performance wagons from Audi and BMW, which are over $30,000 more expensive.

      The plug-in hybrid delivers a combined output of 577 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque.

      Fans of high-performance wagons can celebrate as all three German automakers are now represented in the U.S. market. Alongside the Audi RS6 Avant and BMW M5 Touring, car enthusiasts can also opt for the 2026 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid Wagon.

      Set to hit dealerships this fall, the model's starting price is $93,350, plus a $1,150 destination charge. This makes the wagon $3,750 pricier than the sedan, which has a slightly higher delivery charge of $1,250. On the plus side, it's tens of thousands less than the Audi and BMW, with the former starting at $130,700 and the latter at $123,900.

      Of course, this pricing reflects the E 53's slightly lower power output. It features a plug-in hybrid system with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, a 28.6 kWh battery, and an electric motor integrated into a nine-speed automatic transmission, yielding a combined power of 577 hp (430 kW / 585 PS) and 553 lb-ft (749 Nm) of torque.

      These are impressive figures, allowing the wagon to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in just four seconds, with an electric-only range of 41 miles (66 km). It can reach a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h), which increases to 174 mph (280 km/h) with the AMG Dynamic Plus Package.

      This package also enhances the vehicle with a limited-slip rear differential and a composite braking system featuring larger front discs. Additionally, it includes a Race Start function that raises the output to 604 hp (450 kW / 612 PS) and cuts the 0-60 mph time to 3.8 seconds.

      Comparing It to Competitors

      While those numbers are commendable, the Audi RS6 Avant Performance boasts a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine generating 621 hp (463 kW / 630 PS) and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) of torque, allowing it to reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 3.3 seconds.

      In contrast, the M5 Touring features a plug-in hybrid powertrain producing a combined output of 717 hp (535 kW / 727 PS) and 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque. It has a shorter electric-only range of 25 miles (40 km) but still manages to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.5 seconds.

      Well-Equipped

      Setting aside the competition, the E 53 Hybrid Wagon comes well-equipped with all-wheel drive, rear-axle steering, and an AMG Ride Control suspension with adaptive damping. Buyers can also opt for 20-inch wheels, with 21-inch options available.

      In terms of customization, the wagon offers more than ten color choices along with three styling packages, including Night and Night Plus options and a Carbon Fiber package.

      Inside, it features heated power front seats upholstered in MB-Tex and microfiber. Additional highlights include a heated Nappa leather sport steering wheel, a panoramic glass sunroof, and a Burmester 4D surround sound system. There’s also a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.4-inch infotainment system.

      An array of options will include the MBUX Superscreen Package, which adds a 12.3-inch display for the front passenger. Buyers can also choose Nappa leather seats, wood or carbon fiber trim, and options for Multicontour or AMG Performance seating.

      Along with standalone options and packages, Exclusive and Pinnacle trims are available. The Exclusive trim offers Digital Light headlights, heat and noise insulating glass, and an active ambient lighting system with sound visualization.

      The Pinnacle trim includes all the aforementioned features and upgraded headlights capable of projecting images onto the road. Buyers will also benefit from a head-up display, a four-zone climate control system, and an MBUX Interior Assistant.

      Lastly, there will be an Edition 1 variant, featuring a distinct Manufaktur Alpine Grey exterior with contrasting accents and graphics, black 21-inch forged wheels, additional equipment, and an “edition-specific interior.”