Mercedes-Benz India today finally launched the new Mercedes-AMG E 53 Performance sedan in the Indian market. It’s offered in two variants: Performance Edition priced at Rs 1.45 crore and Racing Edition priced at Rs 1.48 crore (both prices ex-showroom).

The E 53 nameplate has made its way back to India, returning as a plug-in hybrid sedan after its previous stint in the market as a Cabriolet. In India, the new Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid doesn’t have a direct rival. In terms of pricing and positioning, the BMW M3 Competition and Audi RS5 Sportback are its closest alternatives.

The Mercedes-AMG E 53 is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder petrol engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system.

The plug-in hybrid setup combines the engine with an electric motor and a 21.2kWh (usable) battery pack to produce 585hp and 750Nm. It accelerates from 0-100kph in 4 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250kph, which increases to 280kph with the AMG Driver’s Package offered as standard on the Racing Edition.

The 400V lithium-ion battery supports 60kW DC fast charging, taking 20 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 per cent.

Using an 11kW AC charger, a full charge takes 2.25 hours. Mercedes-Benz claims an electric-only driving range of up to 100km.Compared to the standard E-Class, the AMG E 53 gets an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential, a high-performance braking system, air suspension and rear-axle steering. Inside, the sedan features an AMG steering wheel, illuminated door sills and AMG floor mats. It comes with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The India-spec model does not get the optional passenger display available with the Superscreen package in international markets.Other equipment includes a Burmester sound system, head-up display, wireless phone charger, fingerprint sensor, heated front sports seats, ambient lighting with logo projection, automatic climate control and rear door sunblinds. Safety features include a 360-degree camera, tyre pressure monitoring system and a driver monitoring camera.The new Mercedes-AMG E 53 PHEV is based on the latest E-Class. The AMG version features several AMG-exclusive design elements, which include an illuminated AMG grille, larger front air intakes, flared front wheel arches, AMG side skirts, a ducktail spoiler, a rear diffuser and quad circular exhaust outlets. The optional AMG Dynamic Plus package adds red brake callipers and a microfibre-wrapped AMG performance steering wheel.