Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-AMG E-Class

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG E-Class line includes every member of the E-Class quartet, meaning there is a performance-tuned AMG version of the sedan, coupe, convertible and wagon. That’s good news all around, ensuring everyone is in for a good time no matter which version they choose.

Sedans, coupes and convertibles are available in Mercedes-AMG E 53 specification, equipped with a turbocharged inline-6 that gets an additional boost from an electric starter-alternator and supercharger that can increase horsepower and torque in short bursts. The insanely powerful Mercedes-Benz E 63 S trim is offered only on the sedan and wagon. It uses a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that can catapult the car to 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds.

Among competitors, only Audi is tackling the Mercedes-AMG E-Class lineup in a serious way, adding S6 sedan and S7 sportback models for 2020, shortly followed by the RS 6 Avant wagon and RS 7 sportback. And while the Audi RS 5 coupe and S6 convertible are theoretically one rung down from the Mercedes-AMG E 53 coupe and convertible, in reality the Audis are worthy of cross-examination.

Nevertheless, in spite of the growing threat from Audi, the Mercedes-AMG E-Class lineup remains the benchmark for midsize-luxury-performance cars. For now.

When AMG gets hold of a standard Mercedes-Benz luxury car or SUV, the results are nothing short of game-changing. So it is with the E-Class sedan, coupe, cabriolet and station wagon that go from soft, quiet luxury transports to asphalt-melting hellions.

While still maintaining all the luxury, technology and safety of their less raucous counterparts, the AMG models are denoted by their beefed-up suspensions, sinister exterior styling, standard 4Matic+ all-wheel drive (AWD) and horsepower-heavy turbocharged engines. In flat-out sprints, the E 53 sedan is expected to return a 0-60-mph run of just 4.3 seconds, while the 603-horsepower E 63 S knocks that time down to 3.4 seconds.

Of course, you’ll pay a hefty price for the E 63 S, but you’ll also get bragging rights to a hand-built German twin-turbocharged V8 that can easily scare the pants off any rival. Regardless of which engine you choose, it will be mated to a smooth 9-speed automatic that makes quick work of gear changes. There’s even a “drift mode” for those so inclined to take their AMG investment to the extreme edge of performance driving.

It shouldn’t be a surprise that the 4- and 5-passenger interiors of the AMG E-Class variants closely match those of the standard versions. Still, AMG-specific details help these Mercedes performance models stand out even on the inside. Red trim throughout the cabin, for instance, more than hints at the flashes of anger coming from under the hood.

Being higher-priced models, these AMG-specific E-Class variants are filled with creature comforts. You’ll still have to pay for real leather in E 53 models, however. New for 2020, according to Mercedes, is an Energizing Comfort package that includes cabin air purification and fragrance as well as several 10-minute programs that coordinate music, climate control, interior lighting, seat massage and more in order to enhance the driver’s mood.

All but the 2020 E 63 S Wagon are tight on trunk space. The wagon offers SUV-like cargo capacity that maxes out at 64 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Unlike the standard E-Class wagon, though, there is no rear-facing 3rd-row seat. With its ability to go 180 mph, that’s probably a good thing for the carsick-prone among us.

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG E-Class sedan, coupe, cabriolet and wagon retain the same crisp lines as the standard models but are emboldened with aggressive cues. The AMG sedans sit slightly lower, and all models have AMG body styling with unique fascias.

One of the beautiful things about these high-powered AMG models is their ability to blend in with their counterparts, until they leave them in the dust. From that vantage point, look for the telltale quad-tailpipe exhaust outlets.

DRIFT MODE
Why should kids in old Nissans have all the fun? Now, mom and dad can drift their 6-figure Mercedes-AMG sedan or wagon and show the youngsters how it’s done. Offered only on the E 63 S models, the Drift mode switches off the 4Matic AWD, sending full power exclusively to the rear wheels.

TONS OF TECH
The AMG models are not solely about power and performance. Technology is easily just as inherent to their character as speed and handling. From the ample driver-assist systems, collision-avoidance and infotainment systems, to the future-ready Car-to-X communications interface, the 2020 Mercedes-AMG E-Class wants for nothing.

Starting with the least expensive 2020 AMG E-Class model, the E 53 sedan, you can expect a long list of standard features. In addition to its powertrain enhancements, you’ll get power-operated and heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a foot-activated hands-free trunk, a power sunroof, LED headlights, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

The standard infotainment system bundles twin 12.3-inch instrument cluster and center display screens with navigation, wireless phone charging, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, parallel/perpendicular parking assist, and crosswind assist to stabilize the car in high winds.

In addition to their even higher-powered engines, the E 63 S models include Race and Drift modes, leather interior, front seats with heat and ventilation, a Burmester premium audio system, and a power rear-window sunshade (sedan only).

As with the standard E-Class, myriad options can add to the AMG variants’ essence and capability. Among them are the best massaging front seats to be found in an automobile and a roster of active driving features such as blind-spot monitoring that can guide you away from a crash, evasive-steering assist to prevent hitting a pedestrian, and active lane-keeping assist. On the deceleration front, the E 63 S can be had with carbon-ceramic brakes that will set you back nearly $9,000.

Launched last year, the AMG E 53 models have a unique mild-hybrid powertrain. A 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-6-cylinder with an electrified supercharger is matched to a starter-generator fitted between the gas engine and 9-speed automatic transmission. It assists the supercharger as well as feeds the 48-volt onboard electrical system. Together, these components can momentarily provide an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

In the E 63 S sedan and wagon, a hand-built, twin-turbocharged V8 makes over 600 horsepower. Both engines are paired with the 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic+ all-wheel drive. The E 53 versions have an AMG Speedshift TCT automatic, while the E 63 S employs an AMG Speedshift MCT multi-clutch automatic that can better manage the power and respond to driver inputs.

A fuel-saving automatic start/stop system idles the engine whenever the vehicle comes to a stop, but the driver can override the system should it prove annoying or inconvenient.

3.0-liter turbocharged, supercharged & hybrid inline-6 (E 53)
429 horsepower @ 6,100 rpm
384 lb-ft of torque @ 1,800-5,800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/28 mpg (sedan & coupe), 20/26 mpg (convertible)

4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 (E 63 S)
603 horsepower @ 5,750-6,500 rpm
627 lb-ft of torque @ 2,500-4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/23 mpg (sedan), 16/23 mpg (wagon)